Synonym Nuance VS
How to say "All" in Japanese
Both words can translate to "all", but which should you choose?
Japanese Option A
あらゆる
あらゆる (arayuru)
N3 / CEFR Syllabus
VS
Japanese Option B
ことごとく
ことごとく (kotogotoku)
N3 / CEFR Syllabus
Nuance Contrast & Translation Difference
When translating "all" into Japanese, you must choose carefully between あらゆる and ことごとく.
In Japanese, あらゆる (あらゆる (arayuru)) is typically associated with "all; every possible" (Syllabus Level: N3) and represents Used to emphasize "all" or "every kind of" without exception. Often precedes a noun. 常に名詞の前に来て「すべての」「考えうる限りの」という意味を強調します。.
On the other hand, ことごとく (ことごとく (kotogotoku)) maps to "all, entirely, without exception" (Syllabus Level: N3) and represents An adverb meaning 'completely' or 'everything without exception'. It implies that nothing was left out. Can be used for positive or negative outcomes, often used in more formal or literary contexts.. A literal translation of "all" can often sound unnatural to native Japanese speakers if mixed up!
Bilingual Context for "あらゆる"
彼はあらゆる努力をして、目標を達成した。
He achieved his goal by making every possible effort.
Bilingual Context for "ことごとく"
彼の計画はことごとく失敗に終わった。
All his plans ended in failure.
Nuance Mastery Quiz
Which Japanese word perfectly fits this blank space?
Fill in the blank: "彼は ＿＿＿ 努力をして、目標を達成した。" (Meaning: "He achieved his goal by making every possible effort.")
🎉 Correct Answer!
Remember: "あらゆる" fits here because it means "all; every possible" in the context of: "He achieved his goal by making every possible effort.". "ことごとく" represents "all, entirely, without exception".