Synonym Nuance VS
How to say "All" in Japanese
Both words can translate to "all", but which should you choose?
Japanese Option A
思い切り
おもいきり (omoikiri)
N3 / 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 思い切り and 一同.
In Japanese, 思い切り (おもいきり (omoikiri)) is typically associated with "with all one's might, to one's heart's content, resolutely, boldly" (Syllabus Level: N3) and represents Expresses doing something without hesitation or regret, often with intensity or to the fullest extent. Can also mean "as much as one wants" or "boldly". The form 「思い切って」 is also common..
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 "思い切り"
今日は仕事を忘れて、思い切り遊ぼう！
Let's forget about work today and play to our heart's content!
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: "今日は仕事を忘れて、 ＿＿＿ 遊ぼう！" (Meaning: "Let's forget about work today and play to our heart's content!")
🎉 Correct Answer!
Remember: "思い切り" fits here because it means "with all one's might, to one's heart's content, resolutely, boldly" in the context of: "Let's forget about work today and play to our heart's content!". "一同" represents "all present; all concerned; all of us".