Japanese Conversation · Level 133
60 words
Japanese word
横綱
Pronunciation
Romajiyokozuna
Meaning
- nounyokozuna
Example
横綱は相撲の最高位です。yoko zuna wa sumō no sai kō i de su
Yokozuna is the highest rank in sumo.
More examples
横綱は場所中も毎日稽古に励みます。yoko zuna wa ba sho chū mo mai nichi kei ko ni hage mi ma su
A yokozuna practices every day during a tournament.
Core concept
Describes the highest standing in professional sumo, a title associated with lasting status rather than a single victory.
Common phrases
横綱になるyoko zuna ni na ru
become a yokozuna
横綱に昇進するyoko zuna ni shō shin su ru
be promoted to yokozuna
横綱を務めるyoko zuna o tsuto me ru
serve as a yokozuna
横綱の土俵入りyoko zuna no do hyō i ri
a yokozuna's ring-entering ceremony
Definition in Japanese
相撲で、力士に与えられる最高の位。sumō de riki shi ni ata e ra re ru sai kō no kurai
Word origin
横綱 (yokozuna) combines 横 (yoko, "sideways") and 綱 (tsuna, "rope"), referring to the thick rope worn in the rank's ceremonial ring-entering ritual.
Usage tips
- A yokozuna is not demoted after losing matches, so poor performance can lead to retirement rather than a move to a lower rank.
Other meanings
- grand championnoun