Meaning
The practice of performing a single good act daily.
Cultural Background
It is often taught in elementary schools as part of moral education (Dōtoku). The concept of accumulating merit (kudoku) is central to many Buddhist sects in Japan. Many Japanese companies use this phrase to describe their commitment to local community service. The 'One Good Turn' motto of the Boy Scouts is the global equivalent of this Japanese concept.
Focus on the Kanji
Don't confuse '善' (good) with '膳' (meal). Look for the sheep radical in '善'.
Use with '心がける'
Pairing it with '心がける' makes you sound much more natural and humble.
Meaning
The practice of performing a single good act daily.
Focus on the Kanji
Don't confuse '善' (good) with '膳' (meal). Look for the sheep radical in '善'.
Use with '心がける'
Pairing it with '心がける' makes you sound much more natural and humble.
It's a Motto
Use it as a personal motto, not a command for others.
Test Yourself
Complete the sentence with the correct verb.
毎日、一日一善を＿＿＿＿＿。
'心がける' means to keep in mind or make an effort, which fits the context of a daily habit.
What is the best meaning of 一日一善?
一日一善の意味は何ですか？
The phrase literally means 'one day, one good deed'.
Choose the best response to '今年の目標は何？'
A: 今年の目標は何？ B: ＿＿＿＿＿。
This is the only grammatically and contextually correct option.
Which situation is best for using this phrase?
どの状況でこの言葉を使いますか？
It is a goal-oriented phrase for self-improvement.
🎉 Score: /4
Visual Learning Aids
Practice Bank
4 exercises毎日、一日一善を＿＿＿＿＿。
'心がける' means to keep in mind or make an effort, which fits the context of a daily habit.
一日一善の意味は何ですか？
The phrase literally means 'one day, one good deed'.
A: 今年の目標は何？ B: ＿＿＿＿＿。
This is the only grammatically and contextually correct option.
どの状況でこの言葉を使いますか？
It is a goal-oriented phrase for self-improvement.
🎉 Score: /4
Frequently Asked Questions
10 questionsNo, it is secular, though it has roots in Buddhist moral philosophy.
Yes, it shows you are humble and community-minded.
No, it should be small and manageable.
It is a noun, so it doesn't conjugate. Use it with verbs like 'する' or '心がける'.
The kanji are visually very similar.
It is a well-known proverb, but not used in every single conversation.
That's okay! The point is the habit, not perfection.
Yes, the concept exists in many cultures, often associated with scouting.
Yes, it is a great personal motto.
It is neutral.
Related Phrases
積善
builds onAccumulating good deeds.
情けは人のためならず
similarKindness is not for others' sake (it comes back to you).
善行
specialized formA good deed.
利他
similarAltruism.
