Translation guide
The English phrase 'all night' describes an action or state that continues throughout the entire night. In Japanese, this concept is expressed using specific adverbs, time expressions, or verb constructions. The most common equivalent is 一晩中 (hitobanjuu), but other options exist depending on nuance and formality.
To express that an action or state lasts from evening until morning without interruption.
The most common and natural way to say 'all night' in everyday conversation. It emphasizes the duration of the entire night.
I stayed up all night last night.
The baby cried all night.
Similar to 一晩中, but slightly more literary or emphatic. Often used when the action is continuous and perhaps strenuous.
He worked all night.
Used adverbially to mean 'staying up all night (to do something)'. Often implies intentional sleeplessness for a task like studying or working.
I studied all night.
I worked all night to meet the deadline.
A formal, written term meaning 'all night'. Rare in speech; used in official contexts or literature.
an all-night bus service
To stress that something happened without stopping for the entire night.
To describe a business or service that operates throughout the night.
一晩中 (hitobanjuu) simply describes the duration of an action throughout the night. 徹夜 (tetsuya) implies intentionally staying awake all night, often to accomplish something. Use 徹夜 when the lack of sleep is the focus.
We enjoyed the party all night. (No implication of hardship)
I stayed up all night writing the report. (Intentional sleeplessness)
Avoid directly translating 'all night' as 全ての夜 (subete no yoru). This is unnatural and means 'every night' rather than 'throughout the night'.
I could hear the wind all night long.
This convenience store is open 24 hours (all night).