Synonym Nuance VS
How to say "Each" in Japanese
Both words can translate to "each", but which should you choose?
Japanese Option A
各〜
かく〜 (kaku~)
N3 / CEFR Syllabus
VS
Japanese Option B
おのおの
おのおの (onōno)
N2 / CEFR Syllabus
Nuance Contrast & Translation Difference
When translating "each" into Japanese, you must choose carefully between 各〜 and おのおの.
In Japanese, 各〜 (かく〜 (kaku~)) is typically associated with "each ~, every ~" (Syllabus Level: N3) and represents A prefix meaning 'each' or 'every'. It is attached directly to nouns, often indicating a plural or group where each individual member is considered..
On the other hand, おのおの (おのおの (onōno)) maps to "each, respectively, severally" (Syllabus Level: N2) and represents Refers to each individual or item in a group, often implying that they act or are treated separately. それぞれの個人や物に対して個別に言及する際に使われます。「それぞれ」と似ていますが、より個々の独立性を強調するニュアンスがあります。. A literal translation of "each" can often sound unnatural to native Japanese speakers if mixed up!
Bilingual Context for "各〜"
会議には各部署から代表者が出席した。
Representatives from each department attended the meeting.
Bilingual Context for "おのおの"
会議の後、参加者はおのおのの意見を述べた。
After the meeting, the participants each expressed their opinions.
Nuance Mastery Quiz
Which Japanese word perfectly fits this blank space?
Fill in the blank: "会議には各部署から代表者が出席した。" (Meaning: "Representatives from each department attended the meeting.")
🎉 Correct Answer!
Remember: "各〜" fits here because it means "each ~, every ~" in the context of: "Representatives from each department attended the meeting.". "おのおの" represents "each, respectively, severally".