How to say "altogether" in Japanese

Choosing the right word
  • ことごとくJLPT N1approx.Common
    adverbCovers 'altogether' in the sense 'entirely, without exception': every item or attempt under discussion meets the same result. It works as an adverb and is usually written in kana alone.
    トムはこれまで手てをつけた仕事しごとはことごとく成功せいこうした。↗
    Tom has always done well in every job he has had.
  • そっくりJLPT N3approx.Common
    adverbA mimetic adverb: it fits 'altogether' when the whole is treated as one intact unit — kept, taken, or copied exactly as it is, with nothing left out or changed.
    The plan was approved in its entirety.
  • 全部ぜんぶJLPT N5approx.Common
    no-adjective, adverbIts core sense is 'all, everything', so it suits 'altogether' when you mean the whole amount or every item, rather than how completely something happens or how intact something stays.
    かばん全部ぜんぶに荷札にふだをつけなさい。↗
    Attach labels to all the bags.

Use 全部 for plain 'all of it, the whole amount'; 「ことごとく」 when everything without exception meets the same outcome; 「そっくり」 when the whole is kept, taken, or reproduced intact, exactly as it is.

Usage comparisons are AI-assisted and cross-checked by multiple models; for study reference only

Japanese equivalents
See also

JLPT vocabulary levels are community estimates, not official (no official lists have been published since the 2010 revision).

Say it right, write it right

Core lookup works fully offline, with cloud pronunciation and one-tap save & review. Free, no sign-up.

Free downloadWindowsFree downloadmacOSDownload on the App StoreGet it on Google Play
MobileiOS / Android

Android

QR code for the Google Play pageGet it on Google Play

Scan it with your Android phone to install, or search for “Tomoshi” on Google Play.

iOS

QR code for the App Store pageDownload on the App Store

Scan it with your iPhone camera to install, or search for “Tomoshi” in the App Store.

Install the browser extensionLook words up on any web page · Chrome / Edge / Safari

Screenshot of a Tomoshi lookup resultScreenshot of Tomoshi lookup results on a phone

Windows macOS Chrome / Edge / Safari extension iOS / Android