一期一会(いちごいちえ)

一期一会(いちごいちえ) is a four-character idiom (四字熟語(よじじゅくご)) meaning "once in a lifetime encounter."

Etymology

From Japanese tea ceremony (茶道(さどう)), attributed to the tea master 千利休(せんのりきゅう). 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(いちごいちえ)の精神(せいしん): the spirit of treasuring each encounter
• 一期一会(いちごいちえ)を大切(たいせつ)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.