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Synonym Nuance VS

How to say "Smoothly" in Japanese

Both words can translate to "smoothly", but which should you choose?

Japanese Option A

滞りなく

とどこおりなく (todokoorinaku)
N2 / CEFR Syllabus
VS
Japanese Option B

とどこおりなく

とどこおりなく (todokoorinaku)
N2 / CEFR Syllabus

Nuance Contrast & Translation Difference

When translating "smoothly" into Japanese, you must choose carefully between 滞りなく and とどこおりなく. In Japanese, 滞りなく (とどこおりなく (todokoorinaku)) is typically associated with "smoothly; without a hitch; without delay; without interruption" (Syllabus Level: N2) and represents Describes something proceeding without any problems, obstacles, or delays. Often used in formal or business contexts. 物事が順調に、何の問題もなく進む様子を表します。. On the other hand, とどこおりなく (とどこおりなく (todokoorinaku)) maps to "smoothly; without a hitch; without delay; without impediment" (Syllabus Level: N2) and represents Indicates that something proceeds or is completed smoothly, without any problems, delays, or obstacles. Often used in formal or business contexts.. A literal translation of "smoothly" can often sound unnatural to native Japanese speakers if mixed up!
Bilingual Context for "滞りなく"
会議は滞りなく終了した。
The meeting concluded smoothly.
Bilingual Context for "とどこおりなく"
会議はとどこおりなく進行した。
The meeting proceeded smoothly.

Nuance Mastery Quiz

Which Japanese word perfectly fits this blank space?

Fill in the blank: "会議は ___ 終了した。" (Meaning: "The meeting concluded smoothly.")
🎉 Correct Answer!

Remember: "滞りなく" fits here because it means "smoothly; without a hitch; without delay; without interruption" in the context of: "The meeting concluded smoothly.". "とどこおりなく" represents "smoothly; without a hitch; without delay; without impediment".

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