Synonym Nuance VS
How to say "All" in Japanese
Both words can translate to "all", but which should you choose?
Japanese Option A
ずっと
ずっと (zutto)
N4 / 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 ずっと and ことごとく.
In Japanese, ずっと (ずっと (zutto)) is typically associated with "all the time, for a long time, much (more/less), continuously" (Syllabus Level: N4) and represents An adverb used to express continuity.
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 "ずっと"
子供の頃からずっと日本のアニメが好きです。
I've liked Japanese anime ever since I was a child.
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: "子供の頃から ＿＿＿ 日本のアニメが好きです。" (Meaning: "I've liked Japanese anime ever since I was a child.")
🎉 Correct Answer!
Remember: "ずっと" fits here because it means "all the time, for a long time, much (more/less), continuously" in the context of: "I've liked Japanese anime ever since I was a child.". "ことごとく" represents "all, entirely, without exception".