1.
to devote oneself to; to throw oneself into; to enter (a field or cause)
To commit oneself wholeheartedly to a cause, profession, or activity. Implies entering a new world or field with dedication.
政治の世界に身を投じた。
He threw himself into the world of politics.
若くして革命運動に身を投じた。
He devoted himself to the revolutionary movement at a young age.
会社を辞めて、教育の分野に身を投じることを決めた。
I quit my job and decided to devote myself to the field of education.
2.
to throw oneself (physically); to jump into
To physically leap or jump into something, such as water or a dangerous situation.
川に身を投じた。
He threw himself into the river.
燃える建物の中に身を投じて子どもを助けた。
He threw himself into the burning building and rescued the child.
激しい戦いの中に身を投じることを恐れなかった。
He was not afraid to throw himself into the fierce battle.
Idiomatic expression composed of 身 (body, self) + を + 投じる (to throw, to cast). Literally "to throw one's body/self into." The figurative sense (devoting oneself) is more common than the literal sense.
COMMON COLLOCATIONS:
- 政治に身を投じる: to enter politics
- 戦いに身を投じる: to throw oneself into battle
- 事業に身を投じる: to devote oneself to a business venture
- 芸術に身を投じる: to devote oneself to art
SIMILAR EXPRESSIONS:
- 身を捧げる: to dedicate oneself — emphasizes sacrifice and service
- 打ち込む: to throw oneself into — more casual, used for hobbies and interests
- 専念する: to concentrate on — more neutral, less dramatic