Synonym Nuance VS
How to say "Without" in Japanese
Both words can translate to "without", but which should you choose?
Japanese Option A
すかさず
すかさず (sukasazu)
N2 / CEFR Syllabus
VS
Japanese Option B
もれなく
もれなく (more naku)
N2 / CEFR Syllabus
Nuance Contrast & Translation Difference
When translating "without" into Japanese, you must choose carefully between すかさず and もれなく.
In Japanese, すかさず (すかさず (sukasazu)) is typically associated with "without delay, instantly, immediately, promptly" (Syllabus Level: N2) and represents Adverb. Implies acting quickly and without hesitation in response to a situation or opportunity. Often used for quick reactions or seizing chances..
On the other hand, もれなく (もれなく (more naku)) maps to "without exception, everyone, all, unfailingly" (Syllabus Level: N2) and represents Indicates that something applies to or includes everyone or everything in a given group, with no exceptions. Often used in announcements or campaigns.. A literal translation of "without" can often sound unnatural to native Japanese speakers if mixed up!
Bilingual Context for "すかさず"
彼は相手のミスをすかさず攻めた。
He immediately attacked his opponent's mistake.
Bilingual Context for "もれなく"
参加者全員にもれなく記念品が贈られます。
All participants will receive a souvenir without exception.
Nuance Mastery Quiz
Which Japanese word perfectly fits this blank space?
Fill in the blank: "彼は相手のミスを ＿＿＿ 攻めた。" (Meaning: "He immediately attacked his opponent's mistake.")
🎉 Correct Answer!
Remember: "すかさず" fits here because it means "without delay, instantly, immediately, promptly" in the context of: "He immediately attacked his opponent's mistake.". "もれなく" represents "without exception, everyone, all, unfailingly".