全体 — meaning in English: Overall

zentai · Learn this word with quizzes, examples and more on Maspeak.

Guess the translation for whole

ベッドルーム

beddo rūmu

全体

zentai

物質

busshitsu

種類

shurui

感染

kansen

Skip this question

🎓

Learn Japanese for free

Quizzes, examples, audio & daily challenges. No password needed — just your email.

Start learning →

Already have an account? Log in

neutral common

Usage

Native speakers often use '全体' (zentai) in discussions about performance reviews, project evaluations, or when summarizing the main points of a presentation. For instance, a manager might say, '全体として、チームの成果は素晴らしかったです' (Overall, the team's performance was excellent) during a meeting.

Synonyms & nuances

'全体' (zentai) is often compared to '全般' (zenpan), which also means 'overall.' However, '全般' is used more in formal contexts, while '全体' is more versatile and commonly employed in both formal and informal situations. Choose '全体' when you want to convey a broader, more inclusive perspective.

Culture

'全体' (zentai) is derived from the characters 全 (zen), meaning 'whole,' and 体 (tai), meaning 'body.' This combination captures the idea of viewing something in its entirety. In Japanese culture, where context and wholeness are often emphasized, using '全体' reflects a holistic approach to discussions, underscoring the importance of considering all aspects of a topic.

FAQ

Q.What does 全体 mean in English?

'全体' (zentai) translates to 'overall' in English. It conveys a sense of completeness or wholeness when discussing a topic or situation.

Q.How is 全体 used in a sentence?

You can use '全体' in sentences to summarize opinions or outcomes, for example: '全体的に見て、このプロジェクトは成功でした' (Overall, this project was a success).

Q.Are there any common mistakes with using 全体?

A common mistake is using '全体' in very informal contexts where a simpler word like '全部' (zenbu, meaning 'all') might be more fitting. Make sure to assess the formality of the conversation before using '全体.'

Learn japanese with Maspeak →

Japanese 2000