Synonym Nuance VS
How to say "All" in Japanese
Both words can translate to "all", but which should you choose?
Japanese Option A
大丈夫
だいじょうぶ (daijōbu)
N5 / CEFR Syllabus
VS
Japanese Option B
一生懸命
いっしょうけんめい (isshōkenmei)
N3 / CEFR Syllabus
Nuance Contrast & Translation Difference
When translating "all" into Japanese, you must choose carefully between 大丈夫 and 一生懸命.
In Japanese, 大丈夫 (だいじょうぶ (daijōbu)) is typically associated with "all right, okay, no problem" (Syllabus Level: N5) and represents An な-adjective. Used to confirm safety, well-being, or acceptability. Can also be used to refuse politely..
On the other hand, 一生懸命 (いっしょうけんめい (isshōkenmei)) maps to "with all one's might; very hard; desperately" (Syllabus Level: N3) and represents Commonly used as an adverb to describe doing something with great effort, dedication, or intensity. It emphasizes putting maximum effort into an action.. A literal translation of "all" can often sound unnatural to native Japanese speakers if mixed up!
Bilingual Context for "大丈夫"
転んでしまいましたが、大丈夫です。
I fell down, but I'm okay.
Bilingual Context for "一生懸命"
彼は一生懸命日本語を勉強しています。
He is studying Japanese very hard.
Nuance Mastery Quiz
Which Japanese word perfectly fits this blank space?
Fill in the blank: "転んでしまいましたが、 ＿＿＿ です。" (Meaning: "I fell down, but I'm okay.")
🎉 Correct Answer!
Remember: "大丈夫" fits here because it means "all right, okay, no problem" in the context of: "I fell down, but I'm okay.". "一生懸命" represents "with all one's might; very hard; desperately".