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
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 是非 and 悉有仏性.
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, 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 "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 "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: "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.". "悉有仏性" represents "all beings have Buddha-nature".