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
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 精一杯 and 悉有仏性.
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, 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 "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 "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: "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.". "悉有仏性" represents "all beings have Buddha-nature".