Hi Jason,
Welcome to e-budo.
I have heard the phrase used in reference to preparedness, or maintaining the proper frame of mind. However, it isn't a commonly used phrase in the Mugai ryu that I practice and I don't speak Japanese myself, so I've only anecdotal knowledge of it.
If you don't mind me asking, why are you writing a paper about it if you don't know what it means, or were you looking for alternative interpretations to the one used within your practice?
Just curious.
Paul Smith
"Always keep the sharp side and the pointy end between you and your opponent"