Synonym Nuance VS
How to say "Roughly" in Japanese
Both words can translate to "roughly", but which should you choose?
Japanese Option A
おおよそ
おおよそ (ōyoso)
N3 / CEFR Syllabus
VS
Japanese Option B
大まか
おおまか (oomaka)
N2 / CEFR Syllabus
Nuance Contrast & Translation Difference
When translating "roughly" into Japanese, you must choose carefully between おおよそ and 大まか.
In Japanese, おおよそ (おおよそ (ōyoso)) is typically associated with "about, roughly, approximately, generally" (Syllabus Level: N3) and represents Less formal than 約.
On the other hand, 大まか (おおまか (oomaka)) maps to "roughly, broadly, loosely, general, approximate" (Syllabus Level: N2) and represents Describes something that is rough, general, or approximate, without focusing on fine details. It implies a broad overview or a summary. It can be used positively. A literal translation of "roughly" can often sound unnatural to native Japanese speakers if mixed up!
Bilingual Context for "おおよそ"
会議は、おおよそ2時間で終わるでしょう。
The meeting will finish in approximately two hours.
Bilingual Context for "大まか"
まずは計画を大まかに説明してください。
First, please explain the plan in broad terms.
Nuance Mastery Quiz
Which Japanese word perfectly fits this blank space?
Fill in the blank: "会議は、 ＿＿＿ 2時間で終わるでしょう。" (Meaning: "The meeting will finish in approximately two hours.")
🎉 Correct Answer!
Remember: "おおよそ" fits here because it means "about, roughly, approximately, generally" in the context of: "The meeting will finish in approximately two hours.". "大まか" represents "roughly, broadly, loosely, general, approximate".