Synonym Nuance VS
How to say "All" in Japanese
Both words can translate to "all", but which should you choose?
Japanese Option A
一同
いちどう (ichidou)
N2 / CEFR Syllabus
VS
Japanese Option B
悉く
ことごとく (kotogotoku)
N1 / CEFR Syllabus
Nuance Contrast & Translation Difference
When translating "all" into Japanese, you must choose carefully between 一同 and 悉く.
In Japanese, 一同 (いちどう (ichidou)) is typically associated with "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..
On the other hand, 悉く (ことごとく (kotogotoku)) maps to "all, entirely, completely, without exception" (Syllabus Level: N1) and represents Emphasizes that every single item or aspect is included; nothing is left out. Used for a comprehensive and exhaustive inclusion.. A literal translation of "all" can often sound unnatural to native Japanese speakers if mixed up!
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.
Bilingual Context for "悉く"
彼の提案は、悉く却下された。
All of his proposals were rejected without exception.
Nuance Mastery Quiz
Which Japanese word perfectly fits this blank space?
Fill in the blank: "皆様、 ＿＿＿ を代表してご挨拶申し上げます。" (Meaning: "Ladies and gentlemen, I would like to offer a greeting on behalf of everyone present.")
🎉 Correct Answer!
Remember: "一同" fits here because it means "all present; all concerned; all of us" in the context of: "Ladies and gentlemen, I would like to offer a greeting on behalf of everyone present.". "悉く" represents "all, entirely, completely, without exception".