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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

一同

いちどう (ichidou)
N2 / CEFR Syllabus

Nuance Contrast & Translation Difference

When translating "all" into Japanese, you must choose carefully between 一括 and 一同. 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: "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.". "一同" represents "all present; all concerned; all of us".

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