Synonym Nuance VS
How to say "All" in Japanese
Both words can translate to "all", but which should you choose?
Japanese Option A
渾身
こんしん (konshin)
N1 / CEFR Syllabus
VS
Japanese Option B
悉く
ことごとく (kotogotoku)
N1 / CEFR Syllabus
Nuance Contrast & Translation Difference
When translating "all" into Japanese, you must choose carefully between 渾身 and 悉く.
In Japanese, 渾身 (こんしん (konshin)) is typically associated with "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.
On the other hand, 悉く (ことごとく (kotogotoku)) maps to "all, entirely, completely, without exception" (Syllabus Level: N1) and represents Emphasizes that every single item or aspect is included; nothing is left out. Used for a comprehensive and exhaustive inclusion.. A literal translation of "all" can often sound unnatural to native Japanese speakers if mixed up!
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.
Bilingual Context for "悉く"
彼の提案は、悉く却下された。
All of his proposals were rejected without exception.
Nuance Mastery Quiz
Which Japanese word perfectly fits this blank space?
Fill in the blank: "彼は ＿＿＿ の力を込めてボールを投げた。" (Meaning: "He threw the ball with all his might.")
🎉 Correct Answer!
Remember: "渾身" fits here because it means "with all one's might, with all one's body/strength" in the context of: "He threw the ball with all his might.". "悉く" represents "all, entirely, completely, without exception".