Translation guide
How to express 'the whole story' in Japanese, from full accounts to partial truths.
He told me the whole story.
Refers to the full picture or overall outline of a situation, often used in formal or written contexts.
The whole story of the incident came to light.
Means 'the whole story from beginning to end' or 'all the details', often used when recounting an event.
He told the whole story of that day.
A somewhat literary expression meaning 'the circumstances' or 'how things happened', implying the full story.
Please explain the whole story in detail.
To emphasize that there is more to the situation than what is apparent or what someone has said.
The truth or real facts of a matter. Often used when the whole story is not yet known or is being hidden.
I want to know the whole story (the truth).
Literally 'the real part', used to ask for or state the actual situation, the whole story.
Tell me the whole story (what really happened).
The actual circumstances or real state of affairs, often used in formal contexts.
To conclude a narrative or emphasize that nothing more needs to be said.
The English phrase 'whole story' is often used idiomatically. Direct translations like 全体の話 (zentai no hanashi) can sound unnatural. Use the options above depending on context.
会社の実情は厳しい。
The whole story about the company is grim.