Synonym Nuance VS
How to say "Generally" in Japanese
Both words can translate to "generally", but which should you choose?
Japanese Option A
一般的に
いっぱんてきに (ippanteki 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 一般的に and 概して.
In Japanese, 一般的に (いっぱんてきに (ippanteki ni)) is typically associated with "generally, commonly, ordinarily" (Syllabus Level: N3) and represents Adverbial form of 一般的.
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 "一般的に"
一般的に、日本の夏は蒸し暑いです。
Generally, Japanese summers are hot and humid.
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: " ＿＿＿ 、日本の夏は蒸し暑いです。" (Meaning: "Generally, Japanese summers are hot and humid.")
🎉 Correct Answer!
Remember: "一般的に" fits here because it means "generally, commonly, ordinarily" in the context of: "Generally, Japanese summers are hot and humid.". "概して" represents "generally, on the whole, by and large".