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.
彼はその事件を最初から最後まで説明した。
He explained the incident from A to Z.
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'.
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.
彼はそのシステムを熟知している。
He knows the system from A to Z.
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.
彼はその部屋を隅から隅まで掃除した。
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.
彼は事故の一部始終を話した。
He told the story of the accident from A to Z.
Means 'in every aspect' or 'in all respects'. Suitable for abstract coverage rather than physical or sequential completeness.
この計画はあらゆる面で完璧だ。
This plan is perfect 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.
彼はこの町を知り尽くしている。
He knows this town from A to Z.