ひとつずつ
hitotsuzutsu
The phrase 'one of each' in Japanese is ひとつずつ (hitotsuzutsu).
This phrase is used when you want a single unit of every variety available, such as ordering one of every flavor of ice cream. Depending on the context, this phrase can also mean 'one by one' or 'one at a time' when describing an action or sequence.
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase is composed of ひとつ (hitotsu), meaning 'one' (for general objects) and the particle ずつ (zutsu), meaning 'each' or 'at a time'.
How does it change in a sentence?
To turn the phrase into a polite request, add ください (kudasai) to the end.
How do you pronounce it?
hitotsuzutsu
Did you know?
- The word ひとつ (hitotsu) is part of the 'native Japanese' counting system, which is distinct from the 'Sino-Japanese' system used for most other numbers.
- The particle ずつ (zutsu) acts as a mathematical distributive, essentially meaning 'per' or 'for each' in a way that can be applied to almost any numerical value, not just 'one'.
- When used to mean 'one by one', ひとつずつ can describe a mental process of careful consideration. A speaker might use it to emphasize that they are thinking through a problem step by step rather than rushing.
Examples in context
- それぞれ一つずつお願いします。One of each, please.
- それぞれ一本ずつください。One of each, please. (Used for items with a long, slender shape)
- これらをひとつずつください。Korera o hitotsu zutsu kudasai.Please give me one of each of these.
- サンプルをひとつずつもらえますか？Sanpuru o hitotsu zutsu moraemasu ka?Can I have one of each sample?
- 全部の味をひとつずつ試したいです。Zenbu no aji o hitotsu zutsu tameshitai desu.I want to try one of each flavor.
Example conversation
At a bakery counter, Hiroto is ordering assorted treats.
- 大翔 Hirotoこのドーナツをひとつずつください。Kono dōnatsu o hitotsu zutsu kudasai.Please give me one of each of these donuts.
- 陽葵 Himariかしこまりました。袋にお入れしますね。Kashikomarimashita. Fukuro ni oire shimasu ne.Certainly. I will put them in a bag for you.
- 大翔 Hirotoありがとうございます。Arigatō gozaimasu.Thank you.
- 陽葵 Himariまたお待ちしております。Mata omachi shite orimasu.We look forward to seeing you again.
