1.
one and only; unique; unparalleled; incomparable
Describes something or someone that is absolutely singular, with no equal or equivalent. A four-character compound emphasizing absolute uniqueness.
唯一無二の存在だ。
It is a one-of-a-kind existence.
彼の才能は唯一無二だと言われている。
His talent is said to be unparalleled.
この寺は世界でも唯一無二の建築として知られている。
This temple is known as a truly unique piece of architecture in the world.
A four-character compound (四字熟語) composed of 唯一 (only one) + 無二 (without a second). The two halves reinforce each other to emphasize absolute uniqueness — there is only one and no second exists.
COMMON COLLOCATIONS:
- 唯一無二の存在 (one-of-a-kind existence)
- 唯一無二の才能 (unparalleled talent)
- 唯一無二の親友 (irreplaceable best friend)
- 唯一無二の作品 (unique work of art)
SIMILAR WORDS:
- 唯一 — the only one; simpler and more common, without the emphatic reinforcement
- 独自 — original, unique; focuses on being distinctive rather than being the sole one
- かけがえのない — irreplaceable; more emotional and personal in tone
USAGE:
This is a literary and emphatic expression. It is common in speeches, writing, and media when praising something as extraordinary. In everyday conversation, 唯一 alone is more common, while 唯一無二 adds rhetorical weight.