Meaning

Primary

Entirely

Alternatives

Completely, Not At All

Word Type

adverb

Explanation

If you know all of something's nature then you know it entirely and completely. If you don't, then you know it not at all.

This word is weird. It can mean two opposite things depending on what kind of word comes after it. If it's a negative word, it'll mean "not at all." If it's not negative, it'll mean "entirely." Check out the patterns of use and context sentences for examples.

Reading

ぜんぜん
  • Kyoko
    (Tokyo accent, female)
  • Kenichi
    (Tokyo accent, male)

Explanation

This is a jukugo word, which usually means on'yomi readings from the kanji. If you know the readings of your kanji you'll know how to read this as well.

Context

Pattern of Use

Common Word Combinations

  • 全然分からない

    to not understand at all

    全然ない

    to not have any of something

    全然ちがう

    completely different

Context Sentences

え、全然そんなことないよ。

Eh, it's not like that at all.

「すみません。今、ちょっといいですか?」「はい、全然いいですよ!」

"Excuse me. Can I ask you something right now?" "Yes, of course, go ahead!"

彼が何を言っているのか、全然分かりませんでした。

I had no idea what he was talking about.

Kanji Composition