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
悉有仏性
しつうぶっしょう (shitsuubusshou)
C2 / CEFR Syllabus
Nuance Contrast & Translation Difference
When translating "all" into Japanese, you must choose carefully between 大丈夫 and 悉有仏性.
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, 悉有仏性 (しつうぶっしょう (shitsuubusshou)) maps to "all beings have Buddha-nature" (Syllabus Level: C2) and represents Essential structural term in CEFR C2 vocabulary syllabus.. 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 "悉有仏性"
私は悉有仏性に興味があります。
I am interested in all beings have Buddha-nature.
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.". "悉有仏性" represents "all beings have Buddha-nature".