Synonym Nuance VS
How to say "Generally" in Japanese
Both words can translate to "generally", but which should you choose?
Japanese Option A
一般に
いっぱんに (ippan ni)
N3 / CEFR Syllabus
VS
Japanese Option B
概して
がいして (gaishite)
N1 / CEFR Syllabus
Nuance Contrast & Translation Difference
When translating "generally" into Japanese, you must choose carefully between 一般に and 概して.
In Japanese, 一般に (いっぱんに (ippan ni)) is typically associated with "generally, in general, commonly" (Syllabus Level: N3) and represents Used to state a common truth or widely accepted fact..
On the other hand, 概して (がいして (gaishite)) maps to "generally, on the whole, by and large" (Syllabus Level: N1) and represents Used when making a general statement or observation that is true for the most part, though there might be exceptions. Similar to 「一般的に言って」 or 「全体的に見て」.. A literal translation of "generally" can often sound unnatural to native Japanese speakers if mixed up!
Bilingual Context for "一般に"
一般に、夏はアイスクリームがよく売れる。
Generally, ice cream sells well in summer.
Bilingual Context for "概して"
概して、この地域の住民は親切だ。
Generally, the residents of this area are kind.
Nuance Mastery Quiz
Which Japanese word perfectly fits this blank space?
Fill in the blank: " ＿＿＿ 、夏はアイスクリームがよく売れる。" (Meaning: "Generally, ice cream sells well in summer.")
🎉 Correct Answer!
Remember: "一般に" fits here because it means "generally, in general, commonly" in the context of: "Generally, ice cream sells well in summer.". "概して" represents "generally, on the whole, by and large".