The inspiration for today’s lesson came from Anpanman Children’s Museum.

I was walking up the stairs when I saw the phrase 一歩一歩　(ippo ippo). It’s a very versatile phrase because you can use it with Chinese people and they will get what you mean. Just pronounce it as yibu yibu in Chinese.

一　means ‘one’ and 歩 means ‘step’, so 一歩一歩 basically means ‘one step at a time’. I also chose a fitting image to go along with the phrase. As children go up the stairs, they are one step closer towards encountering Anpanman characters. This phrase is also very useful for you to demonstrate your empathy. Let’s say your Japanese friend is troubled about things going wrong in his or her life. You don’t exactly know what to say. But you can nod your head to express empathy and say 一歩一歩。

Take it one step at a time. Which is decent advice because how do we finish eating an elephant? One Bite At A Time! I tell you, your Japanese friend will be so amazed with your Japanese ability!