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Synonym Nuance VS

How to say "All" in Japanese

Both words can translate to "all", but which should you choose?

Japanese Option A

終日

しゅうじつ (shūjitsu)
N2 / CEFR Syllabus
VS
Japanese Option B

一切

いっさい (issai)
N2 / CEFR Syllabus

Nuance Contrast & Translation Difference

When translating "all" into Japanese, you must choose carefully between 終日 and 一切. In Japanese, 終日 (しゅうじつ (shūjitsu)) is typically associated with "all day long, throughout the day" (Syllabus Level: N2) and represents Refers to the entire duration of a single day, from morning until night. Often used in schedules or announcements.. On the other hand, 一切 (いっさい (issai)) maps to "all, everything; absolutely not (with negative)" (Syllabus Level: N2) and represents When used with a negative verb, it means 'absolutely no' or 'not at all'. When used without a negative, it means 'all' or 'everything'. A literal translation of "all" can often sound unnatural to native Japanese speakers if mixed up!
Bilingual Context for "終日"
明日は終日外出します。
I will be out all day tomorrow.
Bilingual Context for "一切"
私はその件について一切知りません。
I know absolutely nothing about that matter.

Nuance Mastery Quiz

Which Japanese word perfectly fits this blank space?

Fill in the blank: "明日は ___ 外出します。" (Meaning: "I will be out all day tomorrow.")
🎉 Correct Answer!

Remember: "終日" fits here because it means "all day long, throughout the day" in the context of: "I will be out all day tomorrow.". "一切" represents "all, everything; absolutely not (with negative)".