1.
only once; just one time
Emphasizes that something happens only once and cannot be repeated, often carrying a sense of preciousness or urgency about a unique opportunity.
An expression emphasizing that something happens only once and cannot be repeated. Combines 一度 (once) with きり (only, nothing more). Often carries a sense of preciousness or urgency — the one chance should not be wasted.
Common patterns
- 人生は一度きり: you only live once
- 一度きりの体験: a once-in-a-lifetime experience
- 一度きりしかない: there is only one chance