Synonym Nuance VS
How to say "Extremely" in Japanese
Both words can translate to "extremely", but which should you choose?
Japanese Option A
極めて
きわめて (kiwamete)
N2 / CEFR Syllabus
VS
Japanese Option B
一唱三歎
いっしょうさんたん (isshousantan)
C2 / CEFR Syllabus
Nuance Contrast & Translation Difference
When translating "extremely" into Japanese, you must choose carefully between 極めて and 一唱三歎.
In Japanese, 極めて (きわめて (kiwamete)) is typically associated with "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。.
On the other hand, 一唱三歎 (いっしょうさんたん (isshousantan)) maps to "Extremely beautiful poetry or music" (Syllabus Level: C2) and represents Essential structural term in CEFR C2 vocabulary syllabus.. A literal translation of "extremely" can often sound unnatural to native Japanese speakers if mixed up!
Bilingual Context for "極めて"
その計画は極めて重要である。
That plan is extremely important.
Bilingual Context for "一唱三歎"
私は一唱三歎に興味があります。
I am interested in Extremely beautiful poetry or music.
Nuance Mastery Quiz
Which Japanese word perfectly fits this blank space?
Fill in the blank: "その計画は ＿＿＿ 重要である。" (Meaning: "That plan is extremely important.")
🎉 Correct Answer!
Remember: "極めて" fits here because it means "extremely, very, exceedingly" in the context of: "That plan is extremely important.". "一唱三歎" represents "Extremely beautiful poetry or music".