Synonym Nuance VS
How to say "All" in Japanese
Both words can translate to "all", but which should you choose?
Japanese Option A
是が非でも
ぜがひでも (zegahidemo)
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 是が非でも and 一切.
In Japanese, 是が非でも (ぜがひでも (zegahidemo)) is typically associated with "At all costs, by any means necessary, whether right or wrong" (Syllabus Level: N2) and represents Emphasizes a strong determination to achieve something, regardless of difficulties or opposition. Can sometimes imply a ruthless or stubborn attitude..
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 "是が非でも"
彼は是が非でもそのプロジェクトを成功させようと決意していた。
He was determined to succeed with that project at all costs.
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: "彼は ＿＿＿ そのプロジェクトを成功させようと決意していた。" (Meaning: "He was determined to succeed with that project at all costs.")
🎉 Correct Answer!
Remember: "是が非でも" fits here because it means "At all costs, by any means necessary, whether right or wrong" in the context of: "He was determined to succeed with that project at all costs.". "一切" represents "all, everything; absolutely not (with negative)".