一言(ひとこと)

ひとこと
noun
a word, brief comment
communication
1. a word, single word
Literally one word, but often means a brief comment or remark.
He didn't say a single word.
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
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.
In closing, I would like to say a few words of thanks.

Often used to request or offer a brief comment.

Common expressions

Pronunciation

  • ひとこと: the everyday reading
  • いちごん: only in set phrases such as 一言一句(いちごんいっく) "every single word"