Translation guide
The English phrase "all around" has several distinct meanings. This guide breaks them down into practical uses and provides natural Japanese equivalents for each.
Flowers are blooming all around the park.
Literally 'four directions, eight sides', meaning in every direction. Often used for spreading or scattering.
The birds flew off in all directions.
Means 'here and there' or 'all over the place', implying scattered in various spots.
There are books placed all around the room.
Describes something encircling or surrounding, often used with verbs like 囲む (surround).
A fence goes all around the house.
Describing a person or thing that is good at many things or covers all areas.
Used to summarize a situation or give a general assessment.
Indicating that something is distributed to or applies to all members of a group.
Means 'to everyone'. Use when something is given or applied to all people.
He gave presents all around.
Casual equivalent of 全員に, meaning 'to everyone'.
I handed out snacks all around.
Do not translate 'all around' word-for-word as すべての周り or similar. It rarely makes sense. Instead, choose the appropriate Japanese expression based on the intended meaning.
Loanword from English, used in sports or describing a well-rounded person.
She has all-around talent.
He is truly an all-around capable person.
今年の業績は総じて良好だった。
This year's performance was good all around.
Emphasizes 'in every single aspect', often used in complaints or praise.
That store is perfect all around.