Translation guide
This English idiom means covering everything from beginning to end, or thoroughly. In Japanese, there is no single direct equivalent, but several expressions convey the same idea depending on context.
To express that something includes all details or covers the entire range of a subject.
Literally 'from beginning to end'. This is the most straightforward and common way to express 'from A to Z' when talking about covering everything in a process, story, or explanation.
Literally 'from corner to corner'. Used when emphasizing that every part of a place or thing has been covered, similar to 'every nook and cranny'.
Means 'in every aspect' or 'in all respects'. Suitable for abstract coverage rather than physical or sequential completeness.
This plan is perfect from A to Z.
To express that someone knows a subject completely, inside and out.
A verb phrase meaning 'to be thoroughly familiar with'. It implies deep, comprehensive knowledge.
Do not translate 'from A to Z' literally as 「AからZまで」. While understandable in some contexts due to English influence, it is not a natural Japanese idiom and may sound odd. Use the phrases above instead.
He explained the incident from A to Z.
He cleaned the room from A to Z.
A somewhat formal noun meaning 'the whole story' or 'all the details from beginning to end'. Often used when recounting events.
He told the story of the accident from A to Z.
He knows the system from A to Z.
Means 'to know exhaustively'. Stronger than 熟知している, often used for knowing every detail of a place or person.
He knows this town from A to Z.