Synonym Nuance VS
How to say "All" in Japanese
Both words can translate to "all", but which should you choose?
Japanese Option A
是非
ぜひ (zehi)
N3 / CEFR Syllabus
VS
Japanese Option B
こぞって
こぞって (kozotte)
N2 / CEFR Syllabus
Nuance Contrast & Translation Difference
When translating "all" into Japanese, you must choose carefully between 是非 and こぞって.
In Japanese, 是非 (ぜひ (zehi)) is typically associated with "by all means, definitely, without fail" (Syllabus Level: N3) and represents Expresses a strong desire or request, often used with ください.
On the other hand, こぞって (こぞって (kozotte)) maps to "all together; everyone (without exception)" (Syllabus Level: N2) and represents Indicates that all members of a group did something collectively, often with enthusiasm or unity. It implies 'without exception'.. A literal translation of "all" can often sound unnatural to native Japanese speakers if mixed up!
Bilingual Context for "是非"
今度、ぜひ私の家にも遊びに来てください。
Please do come visit my house next time, by all means.
Bilingual Context for "こぞって"
クラスメートがこぞって彼の誕生日を祝った。
All the classmates celebrated his birthday together.
Nuance Mastery Quiz
Which Japanese word perfectly fits this blank space?
Fill in the blank: "今度、ぜひ私の家にも遊びに来てください。" (Meaning: "Please do come visit my house next time, by all means.")
🎉 Correct Answer!
Remember: "是非" fits here because it means "by all means, definitely, without fail" in the context of: "Please do come visit my house next time, by all means.". "こぞって" represents "all together; everyone (without exception)".