Synonym Nuance VS
How to say "Large" in Japanese
Both words can translate to "large", but which should you choose?
Japanese Option A
大勢
おおぜい (oozei)
N3 / CEFR Syllabus
VS
Japanese Option B
大柄
おおがら (ōgara)
N2 / CEFR Syllabus
Nuance Contrast & Translation Difference
When translating "large" into Japanese, you must choose carefully between 大勢 and 大柄.
In Japanese, 大勢 (おおぜい (oozei)) is typically associated with "a large number of people, many people" (Syllabus Level: N3) and represents Exclusively used to refer to a large number of *people*. Cannot be used for objects, animals, or abstract concepts. Often used adverbially.
On the other hand, 大柄 (おおがら (ōgara)) maps to "large build; large pattern (of cloth)" (Syllabus Level: N2) and represents Primarily describes a person's physique. A literal translation of "large" can often sound unnatural to native Japanese speakers if mixed up!
Bilingual Context for "大勢"
祭りの会場には大勢の人が集まっていた。
A large number of people gathered at the festival venue.
Bilingual Context for "大柄"
彼は大柄な体格なので、どこにいても目立つ。
He has a large build, so he stands out wherever he goes.
Nuance Mastery Quiz
Which Japanese word perfectly fits this blank space?
Fill in the blank: "祭りの会場には ＿＿＿ の人が集まっていた。" (Meaning: "A large number of people gathered at the festival venue.")
🎉 Correct Answer!
Remember: "大勢" fits here because it means "a large number of people, many people" in the context of: "A large number of people gathered at the festival venue.". "大柄" represents "large build; large pattern (of cloth)".