一心

• Reading: いっしん
• Romaji: isshin
• Kanji breakdown: 一 (ichi/is) — one; 心 (shin) — heart, mind, spirit
• Pronunciation: /is.ɕiɴ/

Meaning

One mind; wholeheartedness; single-minded devotion. Total concentration on one thing.

A noun and adverb expressing complete mental focus on a single purpose. Most frequently seen in the compound 一心に (wholeheartedly) or 一心不乱に (with undivided attention). Conveys intense determination or devotion, often used to describe studying, working, or pursuing a goal with unwavering focus.

Examples

1. 彼女は合格を目指して一心に勉強した。 She studied wholeheartedly with the goal of passing.
2. 母は家族のために一心に働いてきた。 My mother has worked single-mindedly for the sake of the family.
3. 一心に祈る姿が印象的だった。 The sight of her praying with such devotion was moving.

Usage Guide

Context: determination, dedication, narrative, spirituality

Tone: earnest

Origin & History

From Sino-Japanese 一 (ichi/is, one) + 心 (shin, mind/heart). Literally 'one heart-mind' — the entirety of one's mental and emotional focus directed at a single purpose.

Cultural Context

Era: Classical

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal