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
渾身
こんしん (konshin)
N1 / CEFR Syllabus
Nuance Contrast & Translation Difference
When translating "all" into Japanese, you must choose carefully between 是が非でも and 渾身.
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, 渾身 (こんしん (konshin)) maps to "with all one's might, with all one's body/strength" (Syllabus Level: N1) and represents Used to emphasize putting all one's effort, energy, or strength into an action. Often followed by の. 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 "渾身"
彼は渾身の力を込めてボールを投げた。
He threw the ball with all his might.
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.". "渾身" represents "with all one's might, with all one's body/strength".