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
是非
ぜひ (zehi)
N3 / CEFR Syllabus
Nuance Contrast & Translation Difference
When translating "all" into Japanese, you must choose carefully between ずっと and 是非.
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, 是非 (ぜひ (zehi)) maps to "by all means, definitely, without fail" (Syllabus Level: N3) and represents Expresses a strong desire or request, often used with ください. 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 "是非"
今度、ぜひ私の家にも遊びに来てください。
Please do come visit my house next time, by all means.
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.". "是非" represents "by all means, definitely, without fail".