Translation guide
This English phrase is used for strong emphasis, meaning 'absolutely everything' or 'all without exception'. In Japanese, this idea is expressed through various adverbs, noun phrases, and set expressions rather than a single direct translation. The choice depends on what is being emphasized (words, things, people, details) and the level of formality.
every single word and phrase
Literally 'one word, one phrase'; used for careful attention to wording.
He read every single book.
Specifically for people: 'every single person, without exception'.
Every single person attended the meeting.
General word for 'all' or 'everything'. To add emphasis, combine with other words or context.
I memorized every single word.
Emphatic 'every possible; all kinds of'. Often used before nouns.
I tried every single method.
Literary/formal: 'every one; all; without exception'. Often used in written language.
Every single one of his proposals was rejected.
To stress that each word or phrase is being considered individually, often in contexts like careful listening, memorization, or criticism.
Set phrase meaning 'every word and phrase'. Used when scrutinizing or recalling exact wording.
I remember every single word of his speech.
Literally 'one word, one word'; emphasizes each individual word, often in learning or translation.
I looked up every single word in the dictionary.
To emphasize that nothing was said, heard, or understood, often with verbs like 'say', 'understand', or 'believe'.
Pattern: 'not even a single word'. Very common in negative sentences.
He didn't say a single word.
Pattern: 'not a single thing'. Can be used for words if context is clear, but more general.
Directly translating 'every single' as 「毎一つの」 or 「単一の」 is unnatural. Use the set phrases and patterns above instead.
「一つ残らず」 explicitly emphasizes 'without leaving even one', while 「全て」 is a neutral 'all'. Use 「一つ残らず」 when you want to stress completeness.
Formal idiom: 'omitting neither small nor large; down to the last detail'. Used for thorough reporting or recording.
I reported every single detail of the meeting.
I couldn't understand a single word he said.