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
是が非でも
ぜがひでも (zegahidemo)
N2 / CEFR Syllabus
Nuance Contrast & Translation Difference
When translating "all" into Japanese, you must choose carefully between 一度に and 是が非でも.
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, 是が非でも (ぜがひでも (zegahidemo)) maps to "At all costs, by any means necessary, whether right or wrong" (Syllabus Level: N2) and represents Emphasizes a strong determination to achieve something, regardless of difficulties or opposition. Can sometimes imply a ruthless or stubborn attitude.. 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 "是が非でも"
彼は是が非でもそのプロジェクトを成功させようと決意していた。
He was determined to succeed with that project at all costs.
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.". "是が非でも" represents "At all costs, by any means necessary, whether right or wrong".