Synonym Nuance VS
How to say "All" in Japanese
Both words can translate to "all", but which should you choose?
Japanese Option A
一切
いっさい (issai)
N2 / CEFR Syllabus
VS
Japanese Option B
渾身
こんしん (konshin)
N1 / CEFR Syllabus
Nuance Contrast & Translation Difference
When translating "all" into Japanese, you must choose carefully between 一切 and 渾身.
In Japanese, 一切 (いっさい (issai)) is typically associated with "all, everything; absolutely not (with negative)" (Syllabus Level: N2) and represents When used with a negative verb, it means 'absolutely no' or 'not at all'. When used without a negative, it means 'all' or 'everything'.
On the other hand, 渾身 (こんしん (konshin)) maps to "with all one's might, with all one's body/strength" (Syllabus Level: N1) and represents Used to emphasize putting all one's effort, energy, or strength into an action. Often followed by の. A literal translation of "all" can often sound unnatural to native Japanese speakers if mixed up!
Bilingual Context for "一切"
私はその件について一切知りません。
I know absolutely nothing about that matter.
Bilingual Context for "渾身"
彼は渾身の力を込めてボールを投げた。
He threw the ball with all his might.
Nuance Mastery Quiz
Which Japanese word perfectly fits this blank space?
Fill in the blank: "私はその件について ＿＿＿ 知りません。" (Meaning: "I know absolutely nothing about that matter.")
🎉 Correct Answer!
Remember: "一切" fits here because it means "all, everything; absolutely not (with negative)" in the context of: "I know absolutely nothing about that matter.". "渾身" represents "with all one's might, with all one's body/strength".