一子相伝

Reading

Kana: いっしそうでん

Romaji: isshisouden

Definition

noun

1

transmission of the secrets of an art, craft, trade or learning from father to only one child

Note: yojijukugo

Kanji

一

Readings: イチ、 イツ、 ひと-、 ひと.つ

Meanings: one, one radical (no.1)

子

Readings: シ、 ス、 ツ、 こ、 -こ、 ね

Meanings: child, sign of the rat, 11PM-1AM, first sign of Chinese zodiac

相

Readings: ソウ、 ショウ、 あい-

Meanings: inter-, mutual, together, each other, minister of state, councillor, aspect, phase, physiognomy

伝

Readings: デン、 テン、 つた.わる、 つた.える、 つた.う、 つだ.う、 -づた.い、 つて

Meanings: transmit, go along, walk along, follow, report, communicate, legend, tradition

Example Sentence

一子相伝(いっしそうでん)の技(わざ)と言(い)うわりには、彼(かれ)の蹴(け)りは大(たい)した事(こと)はないね。

➥For a guy who was chosen by his father as the only son to be taught the secrets of this martial art, he doesn't have much of a kick.