Synonym Nuance VS
How to say "All" in Japanese
Both words can translate to "all", but which should you choose?
Japanese Option A
一度に
いちどに (ichido ni)
N3 / CEFR Syllabus
VS
Japanese Option B
一同
いちどう (ichidou)
N2 / CEFR Syllabus
Nuance Contrast & Translation Difference
When translating "all" into Japanese, you must choose carefully between 一度に and 一同.
In Japanese, 一度に (いちどに (ichido ni)) is typically associated with "all at once, simultaneously" (Syllabus Level: N3) and represents Indicates that multiple things happen or are done at the same time or in a single attempt..
On the other hand, 一同 (いちどう (ichidou)) maps to "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.. A literal translation of "all" can often sound unnatural to native Japanese speakers if mixed up!
Bilingual Context for "一度に"
一度にたくさんの質問をしました。
I asked many questions all at once.
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.
Nuance Mastery Quiz
Which Japanese word perfectly fits this blank space?
Fill in the blank: " ＿＿＿ たくさんの質問をしました。" (Meaning: "I asked many questions all at once.")
🎉 Correct Answer!
Remember: "一度に" fits here because it means "all at once, simultaneously" in the context of: "I asked many questions all at once.". "一同" represents "all present; all concerned; all of us".