Synonym Nuance VS
How to say "Each" in Japanese
Both words can translate to "each", but which should you choose?
Japanese Option A
お互い
おたがい (otagai)
N3 / CEFR Syllabus
VS
Japanese Option B
銘々
めいめい (meimei)
N2 / CEFR Syllabus
Nuance Contrast & Translation Difference
When translating "each" into Japanese, you must choose carefully between お互い and 銘々.
In Japanese, お互い (おたがい (otagai)) is typically associated with "each other, mutual" (Syllabus Level: N3) and represents Refers to a reciprocal action or relationship between two or more parties. Can be used as a noun or adverb..
On the other hand, 銘々 (めいめい (meimei)) maps to "each, individual, respectively" (Syllabus Level: N2) and represents Emphasizes that each person or item is separate and distinct. Often used when people are to do something individually or when discussing individual responsibilities/characteristics. Can be used adverbially or as a noun. 一人ひとりが別々に、それぞれにという意味。. A literal translation of "each" can often sound unnatural to native Japanese speakers if mixed up!
Bilingual Context for "お互い"
困った時は、お互い助け合いましょう。
When we're in trouble, let's help each other.
Bilingual Context for "銘々"
食後のコーヒーは銘々が好きなものを選んだ。
For coffee after the meal, each person chose what they liked.
Nuance Mastery Quiz
Which Japanese word perfectly fits this blank space?
Fill in the blank: "困った時は、 ＿＿＿ 助け合いましょう。" (Meaning: "When we're in trouble, let's help each other.")
🎉 Correct Answer!
Remember: "お互い" fits here because it means "each other, mutual" in the context of: "When we're in trouble, let's help each other.". "銘々" represents "each, individual, respectively".