Synonym Nuance VS
How to say "All" in Japanese
Both words can translate to "all", but which should you choose?
Japanese Option A
精一杯
せいいっぱい (seiippai)
N3 / CEFR Syllabus
VS
Japanese Option B
そっくり
そっくり (sokkuri)
N2 / CEFR Syllabus
Nuance Contrast & Translation Difference
When translating "all" into Japanese, you must choose carefully between 精一杯 and そっくり.
In Japanese, 精一杯 (せいいっぱい (seiippai)) is typically associated with "with all one's might; to the best of one's ability; with all one's heart" (Syllabus Level: N3) and represents This expression emphasizes putting forth the maximum possible effort or doing something to the fullest extent of one's ability. It often conveys a sense of strong determination or dedication. Used commonly in situations requiring significant effort..
On the other hand, そっくり (そっくり (sokkuri)) maps to "all; altogether; entirely; just like; the spitting image of" (Syllabus Level: N2) and represents Can be used in two main ways: 1. To mean 'entirely' or 'all of it'. A literal translation of "all" can often sound unnatural to native Japanese speakers if mixed up!
Bilingual Context for "精一杯"
彼は精一杯頑張りましたが、試合に負けてしまいました。
He tried his best, but he lost the game.
Bilingual Context for "そっくり"
彼は父親にそっくりだ。
He is just like his father.
Nuance Mastery Quiz
Which Japanese word perfectly fits this blank space?
Fill in the blank: "彼は ＿＿＿ 頑張りましたが、試合に負けてしまいました。" (Meaning: "He tried his best, but he lost the game.")
🎉 Correct Answer!
Remember: "精一杯" fits here because it means "with all one's might; to the best of one's ability; with all one's heart" in the context of: "He tried his best, but he lost the game.". "そっくり" represents "all; altogether; entirely; just like; the spitting image of".