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
精一杯
せいいっぱい (seiippai)
N3 / CEFR Syllabus
Nuance Contrast & Translation Difference
When translating "all" into Japanese, you must choose carefully between ことごとく and 精一杯.
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, 精一杯 (せいいっぱい (seiippai)) maps to "with all one's might; to the best of one's ability; with all one's heart" (Syllabus Level: N3) and represents This expression emphasizes putting forth the maximum possible effort or doing something to the fullest extent of one's ability. It often conveys a sense of strong determination or dedication. Used commonly in situations requiring significant effort.. 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 "精一杯"
彼は精一杯頑張りましたが、試合に負けてしまいました。
He tried his best, but he lost the game.
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.". "精一杯" represents "with all one's might; to the best of one's ability; with all one's heart".