Meaning and Usage
"終始" (しゅうし) means "from beginning to end" or "throughout". It is used to describe something that continues consistently over a period of time without interruption or change.
Context and Register
This word is formal and often appears in written language, news reports, or formal speech. It emphasizes the continuity or consistency of an action, attitude, or atmosphere.
Common Collocations
- 終始冷静 (しゅうしれいせい): remaining calm throughout
- 終始和やか (しゅうしなごやか): a friendly or peaceful atmosphere from start to finish
- 終始一貫 (しゅうしいっかん): consistent from beginning to end
Usage Tips
When using 終始, the speaker implies that there was no change or deviation during the entire period. It is often used to highlight someone's steady behavior or the atmosphere of an event. Avoid confusing 終始 with words that mean "finally" or "at last"; 終始 stresses continuity, not conclusion.