Synonym Nuance VS
How to say "All" in Japanese
Both words can translate to "all", but which should you choose?
Japanese Option A
一括
いっかつ (ikkatsu)
N2 / CEFR Syllabus
VS
Japanese Option B
一切
いっさい (issai)
N2 / CEFR Syllabus
Nuance Contrast & Translation Difference
When translating "all" into Japanese, you must choose carefully between 一括 and 一切.
In Japanese, 一括 (いっかつ (ikkatsu)) is typically associated with "all together, in a lump, collectively, batch" (Syllabus Level: N2) and represents Refers to handling multiple items, payments, or tasks at once, rather than individually..
On the other hand, 一切 (いっさい (issai)) maps to "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'. A literal translation of "all" can often sound unnatural to native Japanese speakers if mixed up!
Bilingual Context for "一括"
引っ越し料金は、まとめて一括で支払いました。
I paid the moving fees all at once.
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.
Nuance Mastery Quiz
Which Japanese word perfectly fits this blank space?
Fill in the blank: "引っ越し料金は、まとめて ＿＿＿ で支払いました。" (Meaning: "I paid the moving fees all at once.")
🎉 Correct Answer!
Remember: "一括" fits here because it means "all together, in a lump, collectively, batch" in the context of: "I paid the moving fees all at once.". "一切" represents "all, everything; absolutely not (with negative)".