1.
once-in-a-lifetime encounter
A concept from tea ceremony emphasizing that each meeting is unique and should be treasured. Every encounter is a singular, irreplaceable experience.
一期一会を大切にしたい。
I want to treasure every encounter.
旅での出会いは一期一会だ。
Encounters during travel are once-in-a-lifetime experiences.
一期一会の精神でお客様をもてなす。
We serve customers with the spirit of treasuring each encounter.
一期一会 is a four-character idiom (四字熟語) meaning "once in a lifetime encounter."
ORIGIN:
From Japanese tea ceremony (茶道), attributed to the tea master 千利休. Literally means "one lifetime, one meeting."
CORE MEANING:
Every encounter is unique and will never happen again exactly the same way. Emphasizes treating each meeting with full attention and appreciation.
COMMON EXPRESSIONS:
- 一期一会の精神: the spirit of treasuring each encounter
- 一期一会を大切にする: to value each encounter
USAGE:
Commonly used in hospitality, customer service, and when reflecting on meaningful encounters. Also appears as a life philosophy emphasizing mindfulness and living in the present.