Synonym Nuance VS
How to say "All" in Japanese
Both words can translate to "all", but which should you choose?
Japanese Option A
ことごとく
ことごとく (kotogotoku)
N3 / 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 ことごとく and 一同.
In Japanese, ことごとく (ことごとく (kotogotoku)) is typically associated with "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..
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.
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: "彼の計画は ＿＿＿ 失敗に終わった。" (Meaning: "All his plans ended in failure.")
🎉 Correct Answer!
Remember: "ことごとく" fits here because it means "all, entirely, without exception" in the context of: "All his plans ended in failure.". "一同" represents "all present; all concerned; all of us".