Synonym Nuance VS
How to say "Generally" in Japanese
Both words can translate to "generally", but which should you choose?
Japanese Option A
押し並べて
おしなべて (oshinabete)
N2 / CEFR Syllabus
VS
Japanese Option B
おおむね
おおむね (ōmune)
N2 / CEFR Syllabus
Nuance Contrast & Translation Difference
When translating "generally" into Japanese, you must choose carefully between 押し並べて and おおむね.
In Japanese, 押し並べて (おしなべて (oshinabete)) is typically associated with "generally; on the whole; by and large; universally" (Syllabus Level: N2) and represents Used when stating a general tendency or characteristic, implying that it applies to almost everything or everyone in a group, with few exceptions..
On the other hand, おおむね (おおむね (ōmune)) maps to "generally, mostly, for the most part, roughly" (Syllabus Level: N2) and represents Indicates that something is true in general, or largely, but might have minor exceptions or details that are not fully covered. It's used when a general statement or summary is sufficient.. A literal translation of "generally" can often sound unnatural to native Japanese speakers if mixed up!
Bilingual Context for "押し並べて"
押し並べて、今年の作物は豊作だった。
Generally, this year's crops were abundant.
Bilingual Context for "おおむね"
彼の意見には、私もおおむね賛成です。
I generally agree with his opinion for the most part.
Nuance Mastery Quiz
Which Japanese word perfectly fits this blank space?
Fill in the blank: " ＿＿＿ 、今年の作物は豊作だった。" (Meaning: "Generally, this year's crops were abundant.")
🎉 Correct Answer!
Remember: "押し並べて" fits here because it means "generally; on the whole; by and large; universally" in the context of: "Generally, this year's crops were abundant.". "おおむね" represents "generally, mostly, for the most part, roughly".