Meaning

Primary

Match

Alternatives

Showdown, A Gamble

Word Type

noun, verbal noun

Explanation

Win, lose... both will happen in tonight's match! What a showdown it will be!

Note that 勝負 can also describe situations where one takes a significant risk or makes a bold move— a gamble —with high stakes involved.

Reading

しょうぶ
  • Kyoko
    (Tokyo accent, female)
  • Kenichi
    (Tokyo accent, male)

Explanation

This is a jukugo word, which usually means on'yomi readings from the kanji. If you know the readings of your kanji you'll know how to read this as well. Just remember that becomes because of rendaku here.

Context

Patterns of Use

Common Word Combinations

  • 勝負をつける

    to fight to the finish

    勝負をする

    to have a match with

    勝負を決める

    to decide on a match

Context Sentences

勝負は引き分けだった。

The match was a draw.

今年は、私にとって勝負の年だと思っています。

I think this year is the year of challenges.

これは一発勝負なので、全力を出して下さいね。

You only have one shot at this, so please give it your all.

Kanji Composition