1.
track record; achievements; accomplishments
Used in formal or literary contexts to refer to someone's achievements or legacy
偉大な足跡を残す。
To leave behind great achievements.
先人たちの足跡をたどる。
To trace the accomplishments of our predecessors.
この研究者は科学の発展に大きな足跡を残した。
This researcher left a great mark on the development of science.
2.
footprint; trace; trail
Physical footprints or traces left behind; more formal than あしあと
雪上に足跡が残っていた。
Footprints remained on the snow.
動���の足跡を調べる。
To examine animal tracks.
考古学者は古代人の足���を発掘現場で発見した。
The archaeologist discovered ancient human footprints at the excavation site.
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:
- 足跡を残す: to leave a mark/legacy
- 足跡をたどる: to trace someone's path/achievements
- 偉大な足跡: great achievements
- 歴史に足跡を刻む: to carve one's mark in history
SIMILAR WORDS:
- あしあと (足跡): footprint (everyday reading; primarily physical footprints; also used for website visitor logs)
- 業績: achievements, results (focuses on work output rather than lasting legacy)
- 功績: meritorious service, distinguished achievements (emphasizes the contribution)
READING NOTE:
The same kanji 足跡 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.