一様

• Reading: いちよう
• Romaji: ichiyou
• Kanji breakdown: 一 (ichi) — one; 様 (you) — manner, style, appearance
• Pronunciation: /i.tɕi.joː/

Meaning

Uniform; equal; even; identical. Describes things being the same without variation.

A na-adjective and noun meaning that all items share the same quality or state without individual differences. Used in phrases like 一様に並ぶ (to line up uniformly) or 一様な反応 (a uniform reaction). Often appears in formal or analytical writing. Can also be used adverbially with に.

Examples

1. 学生たちは一様に驚いた表情を見せた。 The students all wore the same surprised expression.
2. 商品の品質が一様でないことが問題だ。 The problem is that product quality is not uniform.
3. 参加者は一様に満足していた。 All the participants were equally satisfied.

Usage Guide

Context: descriptions, reports, evaluations, academic writing

Tone: objective

Origin & History

From Sino-Japanese 一 (ichi, one) + 様 (you, manner/style). Literally 'one manner' — everything being in the same fashion or style.

Cultural Context

Era: Modern

Generation: All ages

Social background: Educated