Meaning and Usage
"一気" (いっき) literally means "at one push" or "in one gulp." It is used to describe doing something all at once or in a single continuous action without stopping. This can apply to drinking, eating, studying, or any activity done quickly and completely.
Common Collocations
- 一気に飲む: to drink in one gulp
- 一気に終わらせる: to finish something all at once
- 一気に進める: to proceed quickly or all at once
Nuance and Register
"一気" is a neutral term and can be used in both casual and formal contexts. It often conveys a sense of energy or decisiveness. When used with verbs like 飲む (to drink) or 終わらせる (to finish), it emphasizes the speed and completeness of the action.
Common Mistakes
Learners sometimes confuse "一気" with "一度" (once) or "一回" (one time). While those focus on frequency, "一気" emphasizes doing something continuously without breaks. Remember, "一気" is about the manner of doing something, not how many times it is done.