断然
Meanings
adverb, taru-adjective
firmly; resolutely; absolutely
Expresses a strong, unwavering attitude or decision. Often used with verbs like 断る, 拒否する, 主張する, or 反対する.
He flatly refused the offer.
The president was resolutely opposed to the plan.
Used before adjectives or verbs to emphasize that something is clearly wrong, different, or not the case. Common in negative or contrastive contexts.
This way is definitely wrong.
His opinion is absolutely different from mine.
by far; far and away; hands down
Used in comparisons to indicate a clear, overwhelming superiority or difference. Often paired with 一番, 最も, or comparative expressions.
This shop's ramen is by far the best.
He is hands down the fastest runner in the class.
Usage patterns
- 断然〈動詞〉to firmly/absolutely do something (refuse, reject, insist, oppose)
She flatly refused the offer.
- 断然〈形容詞〉definitely/absolutely (wrong, different) — used to emphasize a clear contrast
That is definitely strange.
- 〈物〉のほうが断然〈形容詞〉X is by far more ~ (in a comparison)
The new smartphone is far easier to use.
- 断然一番by far the best/number one
This shop's ramen is by far the best.