Translation guide
The adverb 'purely' is used to emphasize that something is entirely or exclusively the case, without any other elements or motives. This guide covers how to express this in Japanese, from common adverbs to sentence-ending patterns.
Emphasizing that something is 100% the case, with no other factors involved.
The most direct equivalent, meaning 'purely' or 'genuinely'. Often used for motives, feelings, or abstract qualities.
He did it purely out of goodwill.
That's purely a coincidence.
Means 'completely' or 'entirely'. Very common in spoken and written Japanese. Can sound slightly stronger than 純粋に.
That's purely coincidental.
There's purely no problem.
Means 'simply' or 'merely'. Used when emphasizing that something is only one thing and nothing more. Often paired with だけ or にすぎない.
That's purely a misunderstanding.
Indicating that something is limited to a single purpose, reason, or element.
A simple pattern meaning 'it's only/just ~'. Use after a noun or nominalized phrase to express exclusivity.
It's purely out of curiosity.
Means 'exclusively' or 'solely'. Often used for dedicated purposes or primary reasons. Slightly formal.
Means 'single-mindedly' or 'with all one's heart'. Implies intense focus on one thing, often with emotional connotation. Can be used for 'purely' in the sense of 'devotedly'.
Describing an action done with pure intentions, without hidden agendas.
純粋に (junsui ni) emphasizes purity of motive or essence. 全く (mattaku) emphasizes completeness or totality, often with a nuance of surprise or emphasis. 単に (tan ni) emphasizes simplicity or mere-ness, often used in 'not just A, but B' constructions. Choose based on whether you want to highlight purity, totality, or simplicity.
I'm purely happy (my happiness is genuine).
I'm completely happy (totally, utterly).
I'm not just purely happy (there's more to it).
この施設はもっぱら研究用だ。
This facility is purely for research.
彼はひたすら謝った。
He purely apologized (did nothing but apologize).