Translation guide
The English phrase "every direction" refers to all possible spatial orientations or paths. In Japanese, this concept is expressed through specific words and phrases that emphasize omnidirectionality, scattering, or comprehensive coverage.
To describe movement, scattering, or facing toward all sides simultaneously.
Literally 'four directions, eight directions', this is the most common and natural way to say 'in every direction' or 'all around'. It emphasizes completeness and is used for both literal and figurative scattering or looking.
The birds flew off in every direction.
He looked around in every direction.
A more literal translation meaning 'every possible direction'. It is slightly more formal and emphasizes the exhaustive nature of the directions.
We were attacked from every direction.
Means 'all directions' or 'omnidirectional'. Often used in technical or formal contexts, such as surveillance, antennas, or strategies.
This camera can monitor every direction.
Literally 'both right and left', used in contexts where 'every direction' is implied by mentioning the two primary lateral directions. Often used when someone is confused or surrounded.
I don't know which way is which. (lit. I don't know right from left.)
To describe things dispersing or being distributed in many directions without a specific pattern.
Describes people or things scattering in all directions, often in a disorderly manner. Commonly used for crowds or groups dispersing.
The crowd fled in every direction.
An adverb meaning 'separately' or 'in all directions', often used when things come apart or disperse. It implies a lack of unity.
The papers were scattered in every direction.
To indicate that something is coming from or being considered from multiple perspectives or sources.
Means 'from every direction' in the sense of 'from all quarters' or 'from various fields'. Used for opinions, pressure, or information.
Criticism came from every direction.
Literally 'from four directions', it is a simpler version of 四方八方 and is used for attacks or wind coming from all sides.
We were surrounded by enemies from every direction.
四方八方 is the most idiomatic and common for physical scattering or looking around. あらゆる方向 is more literal and can be used in abstract contexts, but may sound slightly stiff in casual speech.
Directly translating 'every direction' as 毎方向 or すべての方向 is unnatural. Use the set phrases above.