Synonym Nuance VS
How to say "Very" in Japanese
Both words can translate to "very", but which should you choose?
Japanese Option A
大いに
おおいに (ōini)
N3 / CEFR Syllabus
VS
Japanese Option B
いとも
いとも (itomo)
N2 / CEFR Syllabus
Nuance Contrast & Translation Difference
When translating "very" into Japanese, you must choose carefully between 大いに and いとも.
In Japanese, 大いに (おおいに (ōini)) is typically associated with "very; greatly; largely; much; to a large extent" (Syllabus Level: N3) and represents An adverb emphasizing a large degree or extent. Often used in formal or literary contexts, but also in daily conversation to express strong feelings or enthusiasm..
On the other hand, いとも (いとも (itomo)) maps to "very, extremely (archaic/literary, often used with adjectives like 簡単, 容易, たやすい)" (Syllabus Level: N2) and represents An old-fashioned or literary adverb emphasizing 'very' or 'exceedingly.' It often adds a sense of ease or simplicity and usually precedes an adjective.. A literal translation of "very" can often sound unnatural to native Japanese speakers if mixed up!
Bilingual Context for "大いに"
彼の意見は大いに参考になった。
His opinion was very helpful.
Bilingual Context for "いとも"
その問題はいとも簡単に解決した。
That problem was solved with extreme ease.
Nuance Mastery Quiz
Which Japanese word perfectly fits this blank space?
Fill in the blank: "彼の意見は ___ 参考になった。" (Meaning: "His opinion was very helpful.")
🎉 Correct Answer!
Remember: "大いに" fits here because it means "very; greatly; largely; much; to a large extent" in the context of: "His opinion was very helpful.". "いとも" represents "very, extremely (archaic/literary, often used with adjectives like 簡単, 容易, たやすい)".