Synonym Nuance VS
How to say "Not" in Japanese
Both words can translate to "not", but which should you choose?
Japanese Option A
〜だけでなく
〜だけでなく (〜dake de naku)
N3 / CEFR Syllabus
VS
Japanese Option B
さほど
さほど (sahodo)
N2 / CEFR Syllabus
Nuance Contrast & Translation Difference
When translating "not" into Japanese, you must choose carefully between 〜だけでなく and さほど.
In Japanese, 〜だけでなく (〜だけでなく (〜dake de naku)) is typically associated with "not only... but also..." (Syllabus Level: N3) and represents Indicates that something applies not just to one thing, but to another as well, often emphasizing the second part. Connects two pieces of information..
On the other hand, さほど (さほど (sahodo)) maps to "not particularly, not so much (used with a negative verb)" (Syllabus Level: N2) and represents Always used with a negative expression to indicate that something is not to that extent or degree. Often implies 'not as much as one might expect.'. A literal translation of "not" can often sound unnatural to native Japanese speakers if mixed up!
Bilingual Context for "〜だけでなく"
彼は日本語だけでなく、英語も話せる。
He can speak not only Japanese but also English.
Bilingual Context for "さほど"
その映画は前評判ほどさほど面白くなかった。
That movie wasn't as interesting as its initial reputation suggested.
Nuance Mastery Quiz
Which Japanese word perfectly fits this blank space?
Fill in the blank: "彼は日本語だけでなく、英語も話せる。" (Meaning: "He can speak not only Japanese but also English.")
🎉 Correct Answer!
Remember: "〜だけでなく" fits here because it means "not only... but also..." in the context of: "He can speak not only Japanese but also English.". "さほど" represents "not particularly, not so much (used with a negative verb)".