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
一向に
いっこうに (ikkou ni)
N2 / CEFR Syllabus
Nuance Contrast & Translation Difference
When translating "not" into Japanese, you must choose carefully between 〜だけでなく and 一向に.
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, 一向に (いっこうに (ikkou ni)) maps to "not at all, utterly, entirely (usually with negative)" (Syllabus Level: N2) and represents Always used with a negative verb or adjective to emphasize 'not at all,' 'not in the least.' It expresses a complete lack of progress, change, or effect, often despite expectations or efforts.. 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 "一向に"
いくら説明しても、彼は一向に理解しようとしない。
No matter how much I explain, he shows no sign of understanding at all.
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.". "一向に" represents "not at all, utterly, entirely (usually with negative)".