Synonym Nuance VS
How to say "Completely" in Japanese
Both words can translate to "completely", but which should you choose?
Japanese Option A
一新
いっしん (isshin)
N2 / CEFR Syllabus
VS
Japanese Option B
うってかわって
うってかわって (uttokawatte)
N2 / CEFR Syllabus
Nuance Contrast & Translation Difference
When translating "completely" into Japanese, you must choose carefully between 一新 and うってかわって.
In Japanese, 一新 (いっしん (isshin)) is typically associated with "completely change, renew, refresh, make entirely new" (Syllabus Level: N2) and represents Refers to making something entirely new or giving it a complete makeover, often implying improvement, a fresh start, or a drastic update..
On the other hand, うってかわって (うってかわって (uttokawatte)) maps to "completely changed; entirely different; suddenly" (Syllabus Level: N2) and represents Used to describe a sudden and complete change in situation, atmosphere, or someone's attitude. Often implies a dramatic shift.. A literal translation of "completely" can often sound unnatural to native Japanese speakers if mixed up!
Bilingual Context for "一新"
会社はイメージを一新するために、ロゴを変更した。
The company changed its logo to completely refresh its image.
Bilingual Context for "うってかわって"
昨日までの雨模様が、今日はうってかわって快晴だ。
The rainy weather until yesterday has completely changed to clear skies today.
Nuance Mastery Quiz
Which Japanese word perfectly fits this blank space?
Fill in the blank: "会社はイメージを ＿＿＿ するために、ロゴを変更した。" (Meaning: "The company changed its logo to completely refresh its image.")
🎉 Correct Answer!
Remember: "一新" fits here because it means "completely change, renew, refresh, make entirely new" in the context of: "The company changed its logo to completely refresh its image.". "うってかわって" represents "completely changed; entirely different; suddenly".