Synonym Nuance VS
How to say "Extremely" in Japanese
Both words can translate to "extremely", but which should you choose?
Japanese Option A
はなはだ
はなはだ (hanahada)
N2 / CEFR Syllabus
VS
Japanese Option B
極めて
きわめて (kiwamete)
N2 / CEFR Syllabus
Nuance Contrast & Translation Difference
When translating "extremely" into Japanese, you must choose carefully between はなはだ and 極めて.
In Japanese, はなはだ (はなはだ (hanahada)) is typically associated with "extremely; exceedingly; greatly; profoundly (often used with negative connotations or to express strong emotions/situations)" (Syllabus Level: N2) and represents A formal and somewhat old-fashioned adverb, often used to emphasize a negative situation or strong emotion, like '非常に' or '大変' but with more gravitas. Can sometimes be used humorously..
On the other hand, 極めて (きわめて (kiwamete)) maps to "extremely, very, exceedingly" (Syllabus Level: N2) and represents A formal and strong way to express a high degree or extent. It is generally stronger than 「とても」 or 「非常に」. 「この上なく、非常に」という意味で、強調したいときに使われます。. A literal translation of "extremely" can often sound unnatural to native Japanese speakers if mixed up!
Bilingual Context for "はなはだ"
その発表は、はなはだ不十分な内容だった。
The presentation had extremely insufficient content.
Bilingual Context for "極めて"
その計画は極めて重要である。
That plan is extremely important.
Nuance Mastery Quiz
Which Japanese word perfectly fits this blank space?
Fill in the blank: "その発表は、 ＿＿＿ 不十分な内容だった。" (Meaning: "The presentation had extremely insufficient content.")
🎉 Correct Answer!
Remember: "はなはだ" fits here because it means "extremely; exceedingly; greatly; profoundly (often used with negative connotations or to express strong emotions/situations)" in the context of: "The presentation had extremely insufficient content.". "極めて" represents "extremely, very, exceedingly".