Synonym Nuance VS
How to say "Exactly" in Japanese
Both words can translate to "exactly", but which should you choose?
Japanese Option A
きっちり
きっちり (kicchiri)
N2 / CEFR Syllabus
VS
Japanese Option B
そっくり
そっくり (sokkuri)
B1 / CEFR Syllabus
Nuance Contrast & Translation Difference
When translating "exactly" into Japanese, you must choose carefully between きっちり and そっくり.
In Japanese, きっちり (きっちり (kicchiri)) is typically associated with "Exactly; punctually; precisely; neatly; tidily; strictly" (Syllabus Level: N2) and represents An adverb often used to describe something done or fitting exactly, precisely, punctually, or neatly without any deviation. It implies strictness, accuracy, or perfection in timing, fit, or order. よく時間通りに、正確に、またはきちんと整理されている状態を表す言葉。.
On the other hand, そっくり (そっくり (sokkuri)) maps to "exactly alike" (Syllabus Level: B1) and represents Essential structural term in CEFR B1 vocabulary syllabus.. A literal translation of "exactly" can often sound unnatural to native Japanese speakers if mixed up!
Bilingual Context for "きっちり"
彼は約束の時間にきっちり間に合った。
He arrived exactly on time for the appointment.
Bilingual Context for "そっくり"
私はそっくりに興味があります。
I am interested in exactly alike.
Nuance Mastery Quiz
Which Japanese word perfectly fits this blank space?
Fill in the blank: "彼は約束の時間に ＿＿＿ 間に合った。" (Meaning: "He arrived exactly on time for the appointment.")
🎉 Correct Answer!
Remember: "きっちり" fits here because it means "Exactly; punctually; precisely; neatly; tidily; strictly" in the context of: "He arrived exactly on time for the appointment.". "そっくり" represents "exactly alike".