徹する

てっする

to devote oneself, to believe in

JLPT N1

Character Breakdown

Meaning and Usage

The verb 徹する (てっする) means to devote oneself completely or to be thoroughly committed to something. It often implies a strong focus or dedication, whether to a task, belief, or principle.

Common Contexts

You will frequently see 徹する used with nouns like 研究 (research), 正義 (justice), or 解決 (solution), indicating full dedication to these concepts.

Collocations and Patterns

  • 〜に徹する: to devote oneself to ~, e.g., 研究に徹する (to devote oneself to research)
  • 信念に徹する: to be committed to a belief
  • 問題解決に徹する: to focus on solving a problem

Register and Nuance

This verb is formal and often used in written or professional contexts. It conveys a serious and resolute attitude.

Common Learner Mistake

Do not confuse 徹する with similar verbs like 集中する (to concentrate). 徹する emphasizes total commitment or devotion, often over a longer period or with a strong moral or professional implication.

Example Sentences

かれはけんきゅうにてっしているので、ほとんどやすみをとらない。

He devotes himself to research, so he hardly takes any breaks.

せいぎにてっすることがかれのしんねんだ。

To be devoted to justice is his belief.

かいぎではもんだいのかいけつにてっするべきだ。

In meetings, we should focus entirely on solving the problem.