'Ittan': The Japanese Trick to 'Put a Pin in It'

Have you ever been in a meeting where everyone is talking in circles, and then the boss concludes:

『一旦、持ち帰って検討しましょう』 (Ittan, mochikaette kentou shimashou)

At this moment, 'ittan' (一旦) is the golden key to breaking the deadlock. This is an extremely common word in both work and daily life, helping you to communicate more subtly and effectively. Let's find out! 😉

What is 'Ittan' (一旦)? 🤔

Many people often translate 'ittan' as 'once' or 'for now.' This translation isn't wrong, but it doesn't capture its full essence.

In actual communication, 'ittan' means 'for now / as a first step / for the time being'.

It is used to mark a temporary stopping point or an initial action, with the implication that the story or work will be continued later. It represents a purposeful pause. ⏸️

The Crucial Difference: 'Ittan' vs. 'Toriaezu'

Both express the idea of 'doing something for now,' but their nuances are completely different:

• Toriaezu (とりあえず): Has the feel of 'let's just do it,' a quick decision without deep thought about the next steps. Like when you go to a pub and immediately order 「とりあえずビール！」(Beer for now!). 🍺

• Ittan (一旦): Is more strategic. It means 'let's do this step for now, and we'll get back to the main issue later.' It shows you have thought things through and have a clearer plan.

➡️ Simply put: 'Toriaezu' is a reaction, while 'ittan' is a planned action.

Real-life Examples 📝

1. In the Workplace 💼

• When you need more time to think:

  この件は一旦保留にして、明日また会議しましょう。 (Kono ken wa ittan horyuu ni shite, ashita mata kaigi shimashou.) → Let's put this matter on hold for now and have another meeting tomorrow.

• When you want to decide on a temporary direction:

  まだ未定な部分も多いですが、一旦この方向で進めてください。 (Mada mitei na bubun mo ooi desu ga, ittan kono houkou de susumete kudasai.) → There are still many undecided parts, but for now, please proceed in this direction.

2. In Daily Life 🏠

• When you want to go home to rest for a bit and then go out again:

  ちょっと疲れたから、一旦家に帰ってもいい？ (Chotto tsukareta kara, ittan ie ni kaette mo ii?) → I'm a bit tired, can I go home for a bit and then we continue? (Implying that you might go out again later)

• When stopping an activity to do something else:

  ゲームは一旦やめて、宿題しなさい！ (Geemu wa ittan yamete, shukudai shinasai!) → Stop playing games for now and do your homework! (You can play again after you're done)

Why Use 'Ittan'?

Using 'ittan' proficiently shows you are a very skillful communicator:

• Shows flexibility: You know how to handle problems step by step, not rigidly.
• Avoids deadlock: Helps discussions not to go into a dead end.
• Creates a professional impression: Shows you have the ability to manage and organize work logically.

Mastering 'ittan', you will not only speak more natural Japanese but also demonstrate the ability to handle situations professionally. Try 'putting aside' the old translations and use 'ittan' today! ✨