先手

This is the 3119th most frequent Japanese word.

More Japanese resources.


先手

"先手" (sente) means "initiative" or "first move."


Here, "先手" is used to mean taking the initiative or acting preemptively in a situation to gain an advantage.

敵が攻撃してくる前に先手を打つべきです。

We should strike first before the enemy attacks.


In this context, "先手" refers to taking the first move in a game or situation, often to gain an upper hand.

彼のチェスのゲームでは毎回先手を取ります。

In his chess games, he always takes the first move.


Here, "先手" is used metaphorically to signify taking the initiative or leading the action in a competitive or strategic environment.

討論の場で彼女が先手を取って話し始めた。

She took the initiative and started speaking during the debate.