一言(ひとこと)

ひとこと
noun
a word, brief comment
1. a word, single word
Literally one word, but often means a brief comment or remark.
彼(かれ)は一言(ひとこと)も話(はな)さなかった。
He didn't say a single word.
一言(ひとこと)で言(い)えば、失敗(しっぱい)だった。
In a word, it was a failure.
一言(ひとこと)で言(い)えば = in a word, to put it briefly
一言(ひとこと)多(おお)い人(ひと)は嫌(きら)われやすい。
People who always have one word too many tend to be disliked.
一言(ひとこと)多(おお)い = saying one word too many
2. brief comment, few words
A short statement or remark.
一言(ひとこと)お願(ねが)いします。
Please say a few words.
Common request at events or gatherings
一言(ひとこと)言(い)わせてください。
Let me say something.
最後(さいご)に一言(ひとこと)、お礼(れい)を申(もう)し上(あ)げます。
In closing, I would like to say a few words of thanks.

Often used to request or offer a brief comment.

COMMON EXPRESSIONS:

ALTERNATIVE READING:

  • いちごん - more formal, literary reading
  • ひとこと - everyday usage

COUNTER NOTE:

  • Despite meaning "one word," 一言(ひとこと) often refers to a brief statement, not literally a single word.
general
Added 2026.1.12 21:24 · Revised 2026.5.27 8:23
03500/03708_hitokoto