Synonym Nuance VS
How to say "Extremely" in Japanese
Both words can translate to "extremely", but which should you choose?
Japanese Option A
すこぶる
すこぶる (sukoburu)
N2 / CEFR Syllabus
VS
Japanese Option B
至極
しごく (shigoku)
N1 / CEFR Syllabus
Nuance Contrast & Translation Difference
When translating "extremely" into Japanese, you must choose carefully between すこぶる and 至極.
In Japanese, すこぶる (すこぶる (sukoburu)) is typically associated with "extremely, very, considerably" (Syllabus Level: N2) and represents Often used with adjectives or verbs, especially when expressing a strong degree of something. It can sound a bit formal or literary..
On the other hand, 至極 (しごく (shigoku)) maps to "extremely, exceedingly, utterly, very (often used with adjectives to emphasize degree)" (Syllabus Level: N1) and represents An adverb or な-adjective that expresses the highest degree or utmost extent of something, often used in formal or literary contexts. Stronger and more formal than とても. A literal translation of "extremely" can often sound unnatural to native Japanese speakers if mixed up!
Bilingual Context for "すこぶる"
今朝はすこぶる調子が良い。
I'm in excellent condition this morning.
Bilingual Context for "至極"
それは至極当然の結論だった。
That was an utterly natural conclusion.
Nuance Mastery Quiz
Which Japanese word perfectly fits this blank space?
Fill in the blank: "今朝は ＿＿＿ 調子が良い。" (Meaning: "I'm in excellent condition this morning.")
🎉 Correct Answer!
Remember: "すこぶる" fits here because it means "extremely, very, considerably" in the context of: "I'm in excellent condition this morning.". "至極" represents "extremely, exceedingly, utterly, very (often used with adjectives to emphasize degree)".