Meaning and Usage
"一筋" (ひとすじ) literally means "one line" or "a single streak." It is often used metaphorically to describe someone who is devoted or focused on one thing without distraction. It can also describe something physically straight or singular, like a river or a line.
Common Contexts
- When describing dedication or devotion, such as "仕事に一筋" (devoted to work) or "恋愛に一筋" (single-minded about love).
- To describe a physical line or streak, e.g., "川が一筋に流れる" (a river flows in a single line).
Collocations and Patterns
- 一筋に取り組む: to work single-mindedly on something.
- 一筋の光: a single ray of light.
- 一筋縄ではいかない: an idiomatic expression meaning "not straightforward" or "not simple."
Nuances and Tips
Using 一筋 emphasizes exclusivity and focus on one thing. It often implies sincerity and earnestness. Be careful not to confuse it with 一直線 (いっちょくせん), which strictly means "straight line" without the nuance of devotion.
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This word is neutral and can be used in both formal and informal contexts, but it often appears in written or literary language when describing dedication or a singular path.