Translation guide
The English word "overall" can be used as an adverb meaning "in general" or "on the whole," and as an adjective meaning "total" or "comprehensive." This guide covers natural Japanese expressions for these uses.
Expressing that something is true when considering everything, not just specific parts.
Most common and neutral way to say 'overall' as an adverb. Used in both spoken and written Japanese.
Describing something that includes everything or considers all parts.
Used as a pre-noun modifier meaning 'overall' or 'total'. Very common and neutral.
Overall, this project was a success.
Looking at it overall, I think it's a good result.
Slightly more formal and often used in written language or formal speech. Emphasizes a summary judgment.
Overall, this year's performance was good.
Formal and literary. Used to generalize based on observation. Not common in everyday conversation.
Overall, young people adapt quickly to new technology.
Please calculate the overall cost.
The overall impression wasn't bad.
Emphasizes a comprehensive or integrated evaluation. Often used in contexts like 'overall score' or 'overall judgment'.
An overall judgment is necessary.
Similar to 全体的な but slightly more formal and often used in written contexts. Means 'general' or 'across the board'.
As an overall trend, sales are increasing.