synonym Comparative
専ら
VS
まんざらでもない
Differences Between "専ら" and "まんざらでもない"
Option A
専ら
Meaning
entirely, wholly, solely, mostly, exclusively
Reading
もっぱら (moppara)
Syllabus Level
N2
Practical Example
最近の彼の関心は専らアニメだ。
Recently, his interest is exclusively in anime.
Option B
まんざらでもない
Meaning
not bad, not entirely displeased, rather good (often with a hint of feigned indifference)
Reading
まんざらでもない (manzara demo nai)
Syllabus Level
N2
Practical Example
彼は「別に」と言いながらも、褒められてまんざらでもない様子だった。
While saying 'not really,' he seemed not entirely displeased to be praised.
Which one to use?
Select the correct Japanese word for this context
Which word fits this context: "(entirely, wholly, solely, mostly, exclusively)"?
🎉 正解 / Correct!
使い分け解説:
- 専ら: Indicates that something is done primarily, exclusively, or almost entirely for a particular reason or by a particular means. あることだけが主な理由や手段であることを強調する。
- まんざらでもない: A phrase used to express that something is actually quite good or pleasing, despite perhaps outwardly acting as if one is indifferent or critical. It conveys a subtle sense of satisfaction or quiet approval.
- 専ら: Indicates that something is done primarily, exclusively, or almost entirely for a particular reason or by a particular means. あることだけが主な理由や手段であることを強調する。
- まんざらでもない: A phrase used to express that something is actually quite good or pleasing, despite perhaps outwardly acting as if one is indifferent or critical. It conveys a subtle sense of satisfaction or quiet approval.
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