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 ふ becomes ぶ because of rendaku here.

Context

Patterns of Use

Common Word Combinations

  • 勝負に出る

    to enter a match, to take a chance

    勝負にまける

    to lose a match

    勝負になる

    to become a showdown

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