1.
best in the world; number one in the world
The top rank or highest degree among all countries or people in the world. Used as a noun to describe the top position, or adverbially to mean 'the most in the world.'
世界一になりたい。
I want to be the best in the world.
この山は世界一高い。
This mountain is the tallest in the world.
彼女は自分の子供が世界一可愛いと思っている。
She thinks her child is the cutest in the world.
USAGE:
Functions as both a noun and an adverb. As a noun: 世界一を目指す (to aim for number one in the world). As an adverb: 世界一美しい (the most beautiful in the world). Very common in everyday conversation, sports commentary, and advertising.
COMMON COLLOCATIONS:
- 世界一を目指す (to aim to be the best in the world)
- 世界一の記録 (world record)
- 世界一幸せ (the happiest in the world)
SIMILAR WORDS:
- 日本一: the best in Japan — same pattern but limited to Japan
- 世界最高: the world's best — a more formal expression