Synonym Nuance VS
How to say "Generally" in Japanese
Both words can translate to "generally", but which should you choose?
Japanese Option A
概ね
おおむね (ōmune)
N2 / CEFR Syllabus
VS
Japanese Option B
押し並べて
おしなべて (oshinabete)
N2 / CEFR Syllabus
Nuance Contrast & Translation Difference
When translating "generally" into Japanese, you must choose carefully between 概ね and 押し並べて.
In Japanese, 概ね (おおむね (ōmune)) is typically associated with "generally, mostly, roughly" (Syllabus Level: N2) and represents Indicates that something is mostly true, correct, or complete, but with minor exceptions or details omitted. Similar to 「だいたい」 or 「ほとんど」, but often used in slightly more formal contexts..
On the other hand, 押し並べて (おしなべて (oshinabete)) maps to "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.. A literal translation of "generally" can often sound unnatural to native Japanese speakers if mixed up!
Bilingual Context for "概ね"
計画は概ね順調に進んでいる。
The plan is generally progressing smoothly.
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.
Nuance Mastery Quiz
Which Japanese word perfectly fits this blank space?
Fill in the blank: "計画は ＿＿＿ 順調に進んでいる。" (Meaning: "The plan is generally progressing smoothly.")
🎉 Correct Answer!
Remember: "概ね" fits here because it means "generally, mostly, roughly" in the context of: "The plan is generally progressing smoothly.". "押し並べて" represents "generally; on the whole; by and large; universally".