Synonym Nuance VS
How to say "Each" in Japanese
Both words can translate to "each", but which should you choose?
Japanese Option A
夫々
おのおの (ono'ono)
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 夫々 and 銘々.
In Japanese, 夫々 (おのおの (ono'ono)) is typically associated with "each, respectively, severally" (Syllabus Level: N3) and represents More formal than "それぞれ".
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 "夫々"
会議の後、参加者は夫々自分の仕事に戻った。
After the meeting, the participants each returned to their own work.
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: "会議の後、参加者は ＿＿＿ 自分の仕事に戻った。" (Meaning: "After the meeting, the participants each returned to their own work.")
🎉 Correct Answer!
Remember: "夫々" fits here because it means "each, respectively, severally" in the context of: "After the meeting, the participants each returned to their own work.". "銘々" represents "each, individual, respectively".