Synonym Nuance VS
How to say "One" in Japanese
Both words can translate to "one", but which should you choose?
Japanese Option A
逐一
ちくいち (chikuichi)
N2 / CEFR Syllabus
VS
Japanese Option B
異口同音
いくどうおん (ikudouon)
N1 / CEFR Syllabus
Nuance Contrast & Translation Difference
When translating "one" into Japanese, you must choose carefully between 逐一 and 異口同音.
In Japanese, 逐一 (ちくいち (chikuichi)) is typically associated with "one by one, in detail, item by item" (Syllabus Level: N2) and represents To do or report things individually, sequentially, and in full detail. It emphasizes meticulousness and thoroughness. Often used with verbs like 報告する.
On the other hand, 異口同音 (いくどうおん (ikudouon)) maps to "(with) one voice; unanimously; to say the same thing" (Syllabus Level: N1) and represents This is a yojijukugo. A literal translation of "one" can often sound unnatural to native Japanese speakers if mixed up!
Bilingual Context for "逐一"
彼は出張の進捗状況を逐一報告してくれた。
He reported the progress of his business trip in detail, item by item.
Bilingual Context for "異口同音"
会議の参加者たちは、皆、異口同音に彼の意見に賛成した。
The participants in the meeting all unanimously agreed with his opinion.
Nuance Mastery Quiz
Which Japanese word perfectly fits this blank space?
Fill in the blank: "彼は出張の進捗状況を ＿＿＿ 報告してくれた。" (Meaning: "He reported the progress of his business trip in detail, item by item.")
🎉 Correct Answer!
Remember: "逐一" fits here because it means "one by one, in detail, item by item" in the context of: "He reported the progress of his business trip in detail, item by item.". "異口同音" represents "(with) one voice; unanimously; to say the same thing".