Synonym Nuance VS
How to say "All" in Japanese
Both words can translate to "all", but which should you choose?
Japanese Option A
こぞって
こぞって (kozotte)
N2 / CEFR Syllabus
VS
Japanese Option B
一同
いちどう (ichidou)
N2 / CEFR Syllabus
Nuance Contrast & Translation Difference
When translating "all" into Japanese, you must choose carefully between こぞって and 一同.
In Japanese, こぞって (こぞって (kozotte)) is typically associated with "all together; everyone (without exception)" (Syllabus Level: N2) and represents Indicates that all members of a group did something collectively, often with enthusiasm or unity. It implies 'without exception'..
On the other hand, 一同 (いちどう (ichidou)) maps to "all present; all concerned; all of us" (Syllabus Level: N2) and represents Refers to everyone in a group or gathering. Often used in formal or semi-formal contexts, like speeches or collective messages. Can be used by a speaker to refer to themselves and their group.. A literal translation of "all" can often sound unnatural to native Japanese speakers if mixed up!
Bilingual Context for "こぞって"
クラスメートがこぞって彼の誕生日を祝った。
All the classmates celebrated his birthday together.
Bilingual Context for "一同"
皆様、一同を代表してご挨拶申し上げます。
Ladies and gentlemen, I would like to offer a greeting on behalf of everyone present.
Nuance Mastery Quiz
Which Japanese word perfectly fits this blank space?
Fill in the blank: "クラスメートが ＿＿＿ 彼の誕生日を祝った。" (Meaning: "All the classmates celebrated his birthday together.")
🎉 Correct Answer!
Remember: "こぞって" fits here because it means "all together; everyone (without exception)" in the context of: "All the classmates celebrated his birthday together.". "一同" represents "all present; all concerned; all of us".