足跡(そくせき)

The on'yomi reading そくせき gives this word a formal, literary tone. In sense 1, it is most commonly used figuratively to describe the legacy or achievements someone has left behind. In sense 2, it refers to literal footprints or traces but in a more formal register than the kun'yomi reading あしあと.

Common collocations

• 足跡(そくせき)を残(のこ)す: to leave a mark/legacy
• 足跡(そくせき)をたどる: to trace someone's path/achievements
• 偉大(いだい)な足跡(そくせき): great achievements
• 歴史(れきし)に足跡(そくせき)を刻(きざ)む: to carve one's mark in history

Similar words

• あしあと (足跡(あしあと)): footprint (everyday reading; primarily physical footprints; also used for website visitor logs)
• 業績(ぎょうせき): achievements, results (focuses on work output rather than lasting legacy)
• 功績(こうせき): meritorious service, distinguished achievements (emphasizes the contribution)

Pronunciation

The same kanji 足跡(あしあと) with the kun'yomi reading is a separate entry (more common in daily life). The そくせき reading is preferred in written Japanese, speeches, and formal contexts.