At the A1 level, '総合的に' (sōgō-teki ni) is a very difficult word that you won't usually need. It is a 'big' word. Think of it like this: in A1, you say 'all' (zenbu) or 'everyone' (minna). 'Sōgō-teki ni' is like saying 'looking at all things together and thinking hard.' If you see this word, just remember it means 'looking at everything.' You might see it on a sign in a school or in a simple news headline. Don't worry about using it yet; just know that the 'Sō' part means 'total.' It's a formal way to say you've thought about everything before making a choice. For example, if you choose a red shirt because it's cheap AND pretty, that's a 'sōgō-teki' choice, even if you just say 'both' in A1 level Japanese.
At the A2 level, you are starting to learn how to combine ideas. '総合的に' is a formal adverb. You might hear it in a classroom or a doctor's office. It means 'comprehensively.' When you use it, you are telling the listener that you are not just looking at one thing. For example, 'I thought about the price and the location and decided (総合的に考えて決めました).' It is more formal than 'いろいろ考えて' (iroiro kangaete). If you use this word in your A2 speaking test, the examiner will be very impressed because it shows you can handle formal vocabulary. Just remember to use it with verbs like 'judge' (判断する) or 'think' (考える).
At the B1 level, you should start using '総合的に' in your writing and formal speech. This word is essential for the JLPT N3/N2 transition. It allows you to summarize complex situations. Instead of just listing facts, you can say 'Taking all these facts into account comprehensively...' (これらの事実を総合的に検討すると...). This word is very common in reading passages about society, environment, or business. It helps you understand the author's final conclusion. When you see '総合的に,' look for the sentence that comes after it—that is usually the main point of the paragraph. It's a 'bridge' word that connects evidence to a conclusion.
At the B2 level, '総合的に' should be a natural part of your professional vocabulary. You should be able to distinguish it from similar words like '全体的に' (overall) and '包括的に' (inclusively). At this level, you use it to show analytical depth. For example, in a business report, you would write about 'sōgō-teki' evaluation of market risks. It's not just about 'all' anymore; it's about the synthesis of different, sometimes conflicting, pieces of information. You should also be comfortable with the adjective form '総合的な' (sōgō-teki na), such as in '総合的な判断' (a comprehensive judgment). This word is a hallmark of the 'Upper Intermediate' speaker who can discuss abstract topics with nuance.
At the C1 level, you use '総合的に' to manage complex discourse. It functions as a sophisticated transition. You might use it to reconcile two opposing viewpoints in a debate: 'While both sides have merit, if we look at the situation comprehensively (総合的に見れば)...' It shows that you have the cognitive capacity to hold multiple perspectives and find the 'golden mean.' You will encounter this in high-level academic journals, legal documents, and philosophical texts. At this level, you should also be aware of its usage in specific fields, like 'Comprehensive Medicine' (総合診療) or 'Comprehensive Policy' (総合政策), where the word implies a systemic approach to complex problems.
At the C2 level, '総合的に' is used with precision and stylistic flair. You understand its weight and use it to provide a sense of finality and authority. In C2 level Japanese, you might use it to critique a lack of synthesis in others' work: 'His analysis was detailed but failed to look at the data comprehensively (総合的な視点に欠けていた).' You are also aware of the historical and bureaucratic weight of the word in Japanese institutions. You can use it in high-level negotiations to signal a willingness to look at the 'big picture' for mutual benefit. At this stage, the word is not just a vocabulary item; it's a tool for strategic communication and high-level synthesis of thought.

総合的に en 30 segundos

  • Comprehensive synthesis: Taking all factors and combining them into one unified judgment or result.
  • Formal tone: Primarily used in business, news, medicine, and academic writing to show objectivity.
  • Decision-making tool: Often precedes verbs like 'judge' (判断する), 'evaluate' (評価する), or 'consider' (検討する).
  • Holistic perspective: Contrasts with looking at things partially or from only one specific viewpoint.

The Japanese adverb 総合的に (そうごうてきに - sōgō-teki ni) is a sophisticated term used to describe the act of looking at something from all possible angles, taking into account every relevant factor, and forming a unified conclusion. In English, we often translate this as "comprehensively," "holistically," "synthetically," or "all things considered." It implies a level of depth and analytical rigor that goes beyond just looking at the surface or a single aspect of a situation. When a Japanese speaker uses this word, they are signaling that they have not made a hasty decision; rather, they have weighed the pros and cons, looked at the data, considered the emotional context, and arrived at a balanced viewpoint.

Etymology of the Kanji
The first kanji, 総 (sō), means 'total' or 'whole.' The second, 合 (gō), means 'to fit' or 'to combine.' Together, 総合 means 'synthesis' or 'integration.' Adding 的 (teki) turns it into an adjective (comprehensive), and に (ni) converts it into the adverbial form we are studying.

You will most frequently encounter this word in formal contexts such as business meetings, academic papers, medical diagnoses, and news reports. For example, a manager might say they evaluated an employee's performance "comprehensively," meaning they didn't just look at sales numbers, but also at teamwork, punctuality, and creative contributions. It is a word that carries authority and suggests a fair, well-rounded perspective.

今回のプロジェクトの成否は、売上だけでなく、顧客の満足度やブランドイメージの向上なども含めて総合的に判断されるべきです。

Translation: The success or failure of this project should be judged comprehensively, including not only sales but also customer satisfaction and the improvement of brand image.

In everyday conversation, while it might sound a bit stiff, it is used when discussing big life decisions. If you are choosing a university, you might say you are deciding sōgō-teki ni, considering the location, the tuition, the faculty, and the campus life. It shows that you are being a responsible adult who thinks things through. It contrasts with words like 単に (tanni - simply) or 部分的に (bubun-teki ni - partially), which focus on narrow slices of reality.

Common Collocations
It is almost always paired with verbs of cognition or evaluation, such as 判断する (handan suru - to judge), 検討する (kentō suru - to consider), or 評価する (hyōka suru - to evaluate).

政府は感染状況や経済への影響を総合的に勘案し、新しい政策を決定した。

Translation: The government took the infection situation and the impact on the economy into comprehensive consideration and decided on a new policy.

Using 総合的に (sōgō-teki ni) correctly requires placing it before a verb that involves assessment or decision-making. The structure is typically [Factors] を 総合的に [Verb]. This word functions as a bridge between a list of disparate elements and a final, unified result. Think of it as the "equal sign" in a long mathematical equation where many variables are added together to reach a sum.

Sentence Structure 1: The Decision Maker
When you are the one making the call, use it to justify your conclusion. Example: "We looked at price, quality, and delivery time comprehensively and chose Vendor A." (価格、品質、納期を総合的に判断して、A社を選びました。)

One of the most powerful ways to use this word is to deflect criticism that you are being too narrow-minded. If someone asks why you didn't focus on a specific detail, you can reply that you are looking at the situation sōgō-teki ni. This suggests that the detail they are mentioning was indeed considered, but it was balanced against other, perhaps more important, factors. It is a very effective rhetorical tool in Japanese business culture, where harmony and balance are highly valued.

将来のキャリアプランを総合的に考えると、今は転職するよりも今の会社でスキルを磨くべきだという結論に達した。

Translation: Considering my future career plan comprehensively, I reached the conclusion that I should hone my skills at my current company rather than changing jobs now.

In academic writing, 総合的に is used to introduce the synthesis of research findings. After presenting various data points from different experiments, the researcher will use this term to summarize what all those data points mean when viewed together. It acts as a signal to the reader that the specific details are over and the "big picture" is about to be revealed. This is crucial for passing the JLPT N2 or N1 levels, where understanding the flow of an argument is key.

Sentence Structure 2: The Evaluation
Used with 'evaluation' (評価). Example: "The student's ability was evaluated comprehensively based on tests, reports, and class participation." (テスト、レポート、授業への参加度に基づき、生徒の能力を総合的に評価した。)

この薬の効果と副作用を総合的に検討した結果、使用を継続することに決めた。

Translation: As a result of comprehensively examining the effects and side effects of this medicine, we decided to continue its use.

While you might not hear 総合的に (sōgō-teki ni) yelled across a busy izakaya, it is a staple of the Japanese media and professional landscape. If you turn on NHK News, you are almost guaranteed to hear it within the first fifteen minutes. News anchors use it when discussing government policies, economic trends, or the results of major investigations. It provides a sense of objectivity and thoroughness to the reporting.

Scenario 1: The Weather and Disaster Management
When a typhoon is approaching, meteorologists don't just look at wind speed. They look at wind, rain, tide levels, and ground saturation. They might say, "We are judging the danger level comprehensively (総合的に判断しています)." This tells the public that multiple threat vectors are being monitored simultaneously.

In the corporate world, this word is used during performance reviews (人事評価). A manager won't just say "You did a good job." They will say, "We evaluated your performance comprehensively, taking into account your sales targets, your leadership within the team, and your contribution to the new project." This usage is meant to show that the company is being fair and not just picking on one mistake or focusing on one success. It is the language of the 'salaryman' and the 'office lady' in their most professional moments.

「部長、新しいシステムの導入については、コストと効率、そしてセキュリティの面から総合的に考えて判断を下すべきだと思います。」

Translation: "Director, regarding the introduction of the new system, I believe we should make a decision after thinking comprehensively about cost, efficiency, and security."

You will also hear this word in sports commentary. When a coach is asked why they chose a certain player for the starting lineup, they might say they made the choice sōgō-teki ni. This covers their physical condition, their recent performance in practice, and how well they match up against the specific opponent. It's a way for the coach to say, "I've done my homework, and this is the best possible choice based on all the data I have."

Scenario 2: Real Estate and Life Choices
When buying a house, a real estate agent might encourage you to look at the property comprehensively—not just the house itself, but the neighborhood, proximity to the station, and future resale value.

医師は、血液検査の結果だけでなく、患者の生活習慣や家族歴も総合的に診察して、診断を下した。

Translation: The doctor gave a diagnosis after examining not only the blood test results but also the patient's lifestyle and family history comprehensively.

The most common mistake learners make with 総合的に (sōgō-teki ni) is confusing it with other words that mean "all" or "overall." Specifically, students often mix it up with 全体的に (zentai-teki ni). While they are similar, zentai-teki ni means "generally" or "across the whole thing" (like "the weather was generally good"), whereas sōgō-teki ni implies a process of integration and synthesis. You use sōgō-teki ni when you are putting pieces of a puzzle together to see the picture; you use zentai-teki ni when you are just describing the picture as a whole.

Mistake 1: Using it for simple summaries
Don't use it to say "In general, I like Japan." (× 総合的に日本が好きです). Instead, use '全体的に' or '概して' (gaishite). Save sōgō-teki ni for when you've analyzed culture, food, safety, and economy and reached a conclusion.

Another error is using it in casual, low-stakes situations where it sounds overly dramatic. If you say you chose your lunch "comprehensively," your Japanese friends might laugh because it sounds like you're a CEO making a multi-million dollar merger decision. In casual settings, いろいろ考えて (iroiro kangaete - thinking about various things) is much more natural. Reserve sōgō-teki ni for when you want to emphasize the intellectual effort and the multifaceted nature of your decision.

Incorrect: 部屋を総合的に掃除しました。
Correct: 部屋を隅々まで掃除しました。

Explanation: You don't 'comprehensively' clean a room in the sense of synthesis; you clean it 'thoroughly' (sumizumi made).

Lastly, avoid using it when you only have one factor. The very essence of the word is the (total) and (combine). If you are basing your decision solely on price, you cannot say you are deciding sōgō-teki ni. This word requires a plurality of inputs. If you use it while only considering one thing, you might be seen as trying to sound smarter than you are or being intentionally vague to hide a lack of reasoning.

Mistake 2: Confusing with 'Total' (Subete/Zenbu)
'Zenbu' is for counting items. 'Sōgō-teki ni' is for processing information. You can't say "I ate the pizza sōgō-teki ni."

Incorrect: 総合的に5つのリンゴがあります。
Correct: 全部で5つのリンゴがあります。

Explanation: Use 'zenbu de' (in total) for counting, not the adverb for comprehensive analysis.

To truly master 総合的に (sōgō-teki ni), you must understand how it fits into the family of Japanese words that deal with "wholeness." Depending on the nuance you want to convey, there might be a better alternative. Using the right one will make your Japanese sound much more natural and precise.

1. 全体的に (Zentai-teki ni)
Meaning: Overall, generally, across the board.
Difference: Focuses on the surface area or the general impression without necessarily implying a deep synthesis of different parts. If a movie was "overall good," use this.
2. 包括的に (Hōkatsu-teki ni)
Meaning: Inclusively, all-encompassing.
Difference: This is even more formal than sōgō-teki ni. It implies that everything is contained within a certain scope. It is often used in legal or official documents to mean "covering everything mentioned."

If you are looking for a more native-sounding, less "kanji-heavy" way to express the same idea, you can use 丸ごと (marugoto) or ひっくるめて (hikkurumete). Marugoto means "whole" (like eating a whole apple) and hikkurumete means "lumping everything together." These are great for casual conversation where sōgō-teki ni might sound like you're reading from a textbook.

Comparison:
1. 総合的に判断する (Synthesize and judge)
2. 包括的に網羅する (Inclusively cover)
3. 全体的に眺める (Look at the whole thing/overview)

3. 多角的に (Takaku-teki ni)
Meaning: From many angles, diversely.
Difference: This emphasizes the variety of perspectives rather than the union of them. If you want to show that you've looked at the problem from the perspective of the customer, the employee, and the shareholder, this is your word.

Finally, there is マクロ的に (makuro-teki ni), which is the Katakana version of "from a macro perspective." This is used specifically in economics and business to contrast with "micro" (details). While sōgō-teki ni can include both micro and macro details, makuro-teki ni specifically tells the listener to stop looking at the trees and start looking at the forest.

How Formal Is It?

Dato curioso

The kanji '総' (sō) is the same one used in 'Sōri-daijin' (Prime Minister), the person who must 'comprehensively' manage the whole country.

Guía de pronunciación

UK /səʊ.ɡəʊ.te.ki.ni/
US /soʊ.ɡoʊ.te.ki.ni/
Japanese is a pitch-accent language. In 'sōgōteki', the pitch typically rises on 'o' and stays high until 'ki'.
Rima con
的に (teki ni - suffix) 意図的に (itoteki ni - intentionally) 具体的に (gutaiteki ni - specifically) 積極的に (sekkyokuteki ni - actively) 客観的に (kyakkanteki ni - objectively) 主観的に (shukanteki ni - subjectively) 劇的に (gekiteki ni - dramatically) 慢性的に (manseiteki ni - chronically)
Errores comunes
  • Pronouncing 'teki' as 'tecky' (it should be 'te-ki').
  • Shortening the long 'o' sounds (should be sō-gō, not so-go).
  • Stress-accenting one syllable like English (e.g., so-GO-teki).

Nivel de dificultad

Lectura 3/5

Kanji are common but require intermediate knowledge. The meaning is abstract.

Escritura 4/5

Requires correct use of 'teki' and 'ni' and formal verb pairings.

Expresión oral 3/5

Easy to pronounce, but requires knowing when the formal register is appropriate.

Escucha 2/5

Very common in news and formal speeches, easy to catch once learned.

Qué aprender después

Requisitos previos

合計 全体 判断 評価 考える

Aprende después

包括的 網羅的 客観的 具体的に 抽象的

Avanzado

止揚 (Sublation) 整合性 (Consistency) 俯瞰 (Bird's eye view) 多角的 (Multifaceted)

Gramática que debes saber

Adverbial suffix 〜的に

具体的 (concrete) -> 具体的に (concretely)

Te-form for sequence of thought

総合的に判断して、決めました。

Noun + を + Adverb + Verb

状況を総合的に判断する。

Adjective form 〜的な

総合的な判断が必要です。

Conditional 〜ば with evaluative adverbs

総合的に見れば、問題ありません。

Ejemplos por nivel

1

全部を総合的に見ます。

I will look at everything comprehensively.

Simple verb 'miru' (to see/look) used with the adverb.

2

総合的に考えて、これにします。

Thinking comprehensively, I will take this one.

Using the 'te-form' of kangaeru to show a sequence.

3

先生は総合的に話しました。

The teacher spoke comprehensively.

Modifying the verb 'hanashimashita' (spoke).

4

総合的にいいですね。

Comprehensively, it is good.

Adverb modifying an adjective 'ii' (good).

5

テストを総合的にやります。

We will do the test comprehensively.

Adverb modifying 'yarimasu' (to do).

6

総合的に見て、安いです。

Looking at it comprehensively, it's cheap.

Common phrase 'mite' (looking and...).

7

町を総合的に見学します。

We will tour the town comprehensively.

Modifying 'kengaku suru' (to observe/tour).

8

総合的に判断しました。

I judged it comprehensively.

Standard 'handan suru' (to judge) usage.

1

値段と質を総合的に考えます。

I will consider the price and quality comprehensively.

Showing the factors being synthesized.

2

学校の成績を総合的に評価する。

Evaluate school grades comprehensively.

Formal verb 'hyōka suru' (evaluate).

3

ニュースを総合的に理解したい。

I want to understand the news comprehensively.

Expressing desire with 'tai' form.

4

この本は総合的に学べます。

You can learn comprehensively from this book.

Potential form 'manabemasu'.

5

旅行のプランを総合的に立てる。

Make a travel plan comprehensively.

Verb 'tateru' (to build/make a plan).

6

みんなの意見を総合的に聞く。

Listen to everyone's opinions comprehensively.

Synthesizing social input.

7

総合的に判断して、休みます。

Judging comprehensively, I will take a break.

Justifying a personal decision.

8

彼は総合的に優れた選手だ。

He is a comprehensively excellent player.

Modifying the adjective 'sugureta' (excellent).

1

メリットとデメリットを総合的に比較する。

Comprehensively compare the pros and cons.

Standard B1 level comparative analysis.

2

環境への影響を総合的に調査した。

Investigated the impact on the environment comprehensively.

Past tense formal 'chōsa shita'.

3

総合的に検討した結果、中止になった。

As a result of comprehensive consideration, it was canceled.

Using 'kekka' (result) to show causality.

4

経済状況を総合的に分析する必要がある。

It is necessary to analyze the economic situation comprehensively.

Using 'hitsuyō ga aru' (there is a necessity).

5

このアプリは総合的に使いやすい。

This app is comprehensively easy to use (all features are good).

Adverb modifying a compound adjective 'tsukai-yasui'.

6

将来のことを総合的に話し合おう。

Let's discuss the future comprehensively.

Volitional form 'hanashiaō'.

7

彼は実力を総合的に認められている。

His ability is comprehensively recognized.

Passive voice 'mitomerarete iru'.

8

データを総合的にまとめる作業です。

It is the task of summarizing data comprehensively.

Verb 'matomeru' (to summarize/unify).

1

多種多様な要因を総合的に勘案する。

Comprehensively take into account a wide variety of factors.

Using the formal verb 'kan'an suru' (take into account).

2

市場の動向を総合的に把握している。

Having a comprehensive grasp of market trends.

Verb 'haaku suru' (to grasp/understand).

3

総合的に見て、彼の提案が最も合理的だ。

Looking at it comprehensively, his proposal is the most rational.

Superlative 'motto mo' with 'gōri-teki'.

4

リスクを総合的に管理する体制を整える。

Establish a system to manage risks comprehensively.

Noun phrase 'taisei o totonoeru' (set up a system).

5

総合的に判断を下すのはまだ早い。

It is still too early to make a comprehensive judgment.

Grammar 'mada hayai' (too early).

6

この論文は総合的に高く評価されている。

This paper is highly evaluated comprehensively.

Adverbial chain: sōgō-teki ni + takaku.

7

都市開発を総合的にプロデュースする。

Comprehensively produce urban development.

Loan word 'purodyūsu suru'.

8

総合的に見て、不備は見当たらない。

Comprehensively speaking, no flaws are found.

Potential negative 'miataranai'.

1

事象を多角的かつ総合的に考察する。

Examine phenomena from multiple angles and comprehensively.

Using 'katsu' (and/yet) to link two adverbs.

2

諸般の事情を総合的に考慮した上での決断だ。

It is a decision made after comprehensively considering various circumstances.

Formal phrase 'shohan no jijō' (various circumstances).

3

グローバルな視点から問題を総合的に捉える。

Perceive the problem comprehensively from a global perspective.

Verb 'toraeru' (to perceive/capture).

4

総合的に勘案すれば、その説は妥当性を欠く。

If considered comprehensively, that theory lacks validity.

Conditional 'ba' with 'datōsei o kaku' (lack validity).

5

各部署の報告を総合的に集約する。

Comprehensively aggregate reports from each department.

Verb 'shūyaku suru' (to aggregate/summarize).

6

文化と経済を総合的に論じる。

Discuss culture and economy comprehensively.

Formal verb 'ronjiru' (to discuss/argue).

7

総合的に見て、事態は改善の兆しを見せている。

Comprehensively speaking, the situation is showing signs of improvement.

Noun 'kizashi' (sign/omen).

8

政策の整合性を総合的に検証する。

Comprehensively verify the consistency of policies.

Noun 'seigōsei' (consistency/coherence).

1

弁証法的なプロセスを経て総合的に止揚する。

Synthesize comprehensively through a dialectical process (Aufheben).

Philosophical term 'shiyō' (sublation/Aufheben).

2

歴史的文脈と現代的意義を総合的に止揚した論考。

A study that comprehensively synthesized historical context and modern significance.

Formal noun 'ronkō' (study/treatise).

3

総合的に俯瞰すれば、文明の転換点に立ち至っている。

If we take a comprehensive bird's-eye view, we have reached a turning point in civilization.

Verb 'fukan suru' (bird's-eye view).

4

情報の断片を総合的に再構築し、真実に迫る。

Comprehensively reconstruct fragments of information to approach the truth.

Verb 'saikōchiku suru' (reconstruct).

5

認識論的な枠組みを総合的に再考する必要がある。

It is necessary to comprehensively rethink the epistemological framework.

Academic term 'ninshikiron-teki' (epistemological).

6

総合的に勘案した結果、不可避な選択であったと断言できる。

As a result of comprehensive consideration, I can assert that it was an unavoidable choice.

Verb 'dangen dekiru' (can assert).

7

美学と機能性を総合的に止揚した建築デザイン。

Architectural design that comprehensively synthesized aesthetics and functionality.

Synthesizing 'bigaku' and 'kinōsei'.

8

人類の知を総合的に体系化する壮大な試み。

A grand attempt to comprehensively systematize human knowledge.

Verb 'taikeika suru' (systematize).

Colocaciones comunes

総合的に判断する
総合的に評価する
総合的に検討する
総合的に考える
総合的に分析する
総合的に診察する
総合的に勘案する
総合的にプロデュースする
総合的に把握する
総合的にまとめる

Frases Comunes

総合的に見て

— Looking at it comprehensively; all things considered.

総合的に見て、こちらのプランの方がお得です。

総合的に判断すると

— Judging from a comprehensive perspective.

総合的に判断すると、彼は合格圏内にいる。

総合的に言えば

— Speaking comprehensively; in short, considering everything.

総合的に言えば、今回の出張は成功だった。

総合的に考慮した結果

— As a result of comprehensive consideration.

総合的に考慮した結果、契約を更新しないことにした。

総合的に優れた

— Comprehensively excellent (good in all areas).

彼は総合的に優れたリーダーだ。

総合的に取り組む

— To tackle something comprehensively (from all sides).

少子化問題に総合的に取り組む。

総合的に検証する

— To verify comprehensively.

実験結果を総合的に検証する。

総合的に再考する

— To rethink comprehensively.

計画を総合的に再考する必要がある。

総合的にリードする

— To lead comprehensively.

彼はプロジェクトを総合的にリードした。

総合的に支援する

— To support comprehensively (providing all types of help).

被災地を総合的に支援する体制。

Se confunde a menudo con

総合的に vs 全体的に

Zentai-teki ni means 'overall impression'. Sōgō-teki ni means 'integrated judgment'.

総合的に vs 一般的に

Ippan-teki ni means 'generally' (common knowledge). Sōgō-teki ni is a specific synthesis of factors.

総合的に vs 統計的に

Tōkei-teki ni means 'statistically'. Sōgō-teki ni includes non-statistical factors like feelings or context.

Modismos y expresiones

"木を見て森を見ず"

— Focusing on the trees and not seeing the forest. The opposite of thinking 'sōgō-teki ni'.

細部にこだわりすぎて、木を見て森を見ずになってはいけない。

Proverb
"一挙両得"

— Killing two birds with one stone. A result of 'sōgō-teki' planning.

この方法は、コスト削減と効率化を一挙両得できる。

Yojijukugo
"清濁併せ呑む"

— Accepting both the good and the bad. A type of 'sōgō-teki' leadership.

リーダーには、清濁併せ呑む度量が必要だ。

Idiom
"大所高所から"

— From a broad and high perspective. Similar to 'sōgō-teki' viewing.

大所高所から物事を判断すべきだ。

Idiom
"多角的な視点"

— A multifaceted perspective. A component of 'sōgō-teki' thinking.

多角的な視点で問題を分析する。

Neutral
"一事が万事"

— From one thing, you can know everything. Usually used negatively, unlike 'sōgō-teki'.

彼の遅刻癖は一事が万事で、仕事全体がルーズだ。

Proverb
"十人十色"

— Ten people, ten colors (everyone has their own opinion). Why 'sōgō-teki' judgment is hard.

意見は十人十色だが、総合的にまとめる必要がある。

Yojijukugo
"三方よし"

— Good for the seller, good for the buyer, good for society. A 'sōgō-teki' business ideal.

近江商人の「三方よし」の精神で経営する。

Business Idiom
"抜本的な対策"

— A drastic/fundamental measure. Often the result of 'sōgō-teki' analysis.

総合的な分析に基づき、抜本的な対策を立てる。

Formal
"整合性を取る"

— To ensure consistency. The goal of 'sōgō-teki' integration.

各データの整合性を取って、総合的に判断する。

Business

Fácil de confundir

総合的に vs 包括的に

Both mean 'comprehensive'.

Hōkatsu-teki ni emphasizes 'inclusion' (everything is inside). Sōgō-teki ni emphasizes 'synthesis' (everything is combined).

包括的な契約 (A contract covering all points) vs 総合的な判断 (A judgment combining all factors).

総合的に vs 網羅的に

Both imply covering a lot of ground.

Mōra-teki ni means 'exhaustively' (leaving no stone unturned). Sōgō-teki ni means 'holistically'.

文献を網羅的に集める (Collect every single document).

総合的に vs 多角的に

Both involve looking at many things.

Takaku-teki ni emphasizes 'different perspectives'. Sōgō-teki ni emphasizes the 'final unified result'.

多角的な視点 (Multiple viewpoints).

総合的に vs 一律に

Both deal with 'the whole'.

Ichiritsu ni means 'uniformly' (applying the same rule to everyone). Sōgō-teki ni is the opposite—it looks at specific differences to reach a balanced result.

一律に減給する (Cut everyone's pay by the same amount).

総合的に vs 概して

Both can translate to 'generally'.

Gaishite is a literary way to say 'on the whole'. Sōgō-teki ni is an analytical adverb.

今年の冬は概して暖かかった。

Patrones de oraciones

A2

AとBを総合的に考える。

値段とデザインを総合的に考える。

B1

〜を総合的に判断して、[Decision]。

天候を総合的に判断して、中止を決めた。

B1

総合的に見て、〜の方がいい。

総合的に見て、こちらの方がいい。

B2

〜を総合的に評価する体制。

実績を総合的に評価する体制を作る。

B2

総合的に勘案する必要がある。

リスクを総合的に勘案する必要がある。

C1

〜を総合的かつ多角的に考察する。

社会問題を総合的かつ多角的に考察する。

C1

総合的に捉え直す。

歴史を総合的に捉え直す。

C2

総合的に止揚する。

対立する意見を総合的に止揚する。

Familia de palabras

Sustantivos

総合 Synthesis, integration, coordination.
総合大学 A comprehensive university (with many faculties).
総合病院 A general hospital.

Verbos

総合する To synthesize, to integrate, to put together.

Adjetivos

総合的 Comprehensive, synthetic.

Relacionado

総括 (sōkatsu - summary/generalization)
総計 (sōkei - total amount)
合計 (gōkei - total)
統合 (tōgō - integration/unification)
合致 (gatchi - agreement/concordance)

Cómo usarlo

frequency

Very high in professional and media contexts; moderate in daily life.

Errores comunes
  • Using it for counting. 全部で / 合計で

    You cannot use 'sōgō-teki ni' to say 'There are 5 people in total'. It is for analysis, not counting.

  • Confusing it with 'generally' (全体的に). 全体的に

    If you want to say 'The movie was generally good', use '全体的に'. '総合的に' implies a deeper analysis.

  • Using it in very casual talk. いろいろ考えて

    Saying 'I comprehensively chose this ramen' sounds weirdly formal. Use 'iroiro kangaete'.

  • Using it with only one factor. 〜の理由で

    Synthesis requires at least two things. If you only have one reason, don't use 'sōgō-teki ni'.

  • Incorrect particle usage. 総合的に判断する

    Sometimes learners say '総合的を', but it's an adverb, so it needs 'ni' and no 'o' after it.

Consejos

Use with 'Handan'

The most common pairing is '総合的に判断する'. Memorize this as a single unit. It's used in every office in Japan.

Balance is Key

Use this word when you want to emphasize that you are being fair and balanced, not biased.

Business Emails

In emails, use '総合的に検討した結果' to sound polite when giving a final answer.

Interviews

In job interviews, say you want to contribute to the company '総合的に' to show you are a versatile worker.

Identify Conclusions

In JLPT reading, when you see '総合的に', the author is about to give their final opinion. Pay close attention!

The 'Ni' Particle

Remember that 'ni' makes it an adverb. It must modify a verb or an adjective.

Kanji Meaning

Focus on '総' (Total). If you see this kanji, the word usually relates to a 'whole' or 'summary'.

List Factors First

For better flow, list the factors (A, B, C) and then say '...を総合的に'.

Education Term

Know that 'Sōgō' is a school subject. This helps you understand why the word is so common.

Don't use for 'Total Count'

Don't say 'Sōgō-teki ni 5-nin'. Use 'Zenbu de' or 'Gōkei de' for counting people or things.

Memorízalo

Mnemotecnia

Imagine a **Sō**up (total) that you **Gō** (combine) with many **Teki** (targets/ingredients) to make a **Ni**ce meal. You looked at all ingredients **comprehensively**.

Asociación visual

Imagine a puzzle where many different shaped pieces (data points) are being pushed together by two hands into a single circle (the conclusion).

Word Web

総合病院 総合大学 総合的 判断 評価 検討 バランス 全体

Desafío

Try to use 'sōgō-teki ni' in a sentence today when explaining why you chose a specific restaurant or movie. Think of at least three reasons first!

Origen de la palabra

The word is a Sino-Japanese (Kango) compound. 'Sō' (総) originally meant 'to gather silk threads,' evolving to mean 'total' or 'general.' 'Gō' (合) depicts two objects coming together (like a lid on a pot), meaning 'to fit' or 'to combine.'

Significado original: To gather various threads and fit them together into a whole.

Japonic (Sino-Japanese vocabulary)

Contexto cultural

There are no major sensitivities, but using it in very casual situations (like choosing a flavor of ice cream) can sound sarcastic or overly stiff.

In English, we might say 'all things considered' or 'at the end of the day.' 'Comprehensively' is more formal and fits the Japanese 'sōgō-teki ni' perfectly in professional settings.

総合的な学習の時間 (Sōgō-teki na Gakushū no Jikan) - A major part of the Japanese school curriculum. NHK 総合 (NHK Sōgō) - NHK's 'General' TV channel, covering all genres. 総合商社 (Sōgō Shōsha) - Japan's unique 'general trading companies' like Mitsubishi or Mitsui that deal in everything.

Practica en la vida real

Contextos reales

Business Meetings

  • 総合的に判断する
  • コストと品質を総合的に評価する
  • リスクを総合的に検討する
  • 市場を総合的に分析する

Medical Diagnosis

  • 症状を総合的に診る
  • 検査結果を総合的に判断する
  • 全身を総合的に治療する
  • 生活習慣を総合的に改善する

News/Politics

  • 情勢を総合的に判断する
  • 影響を総合的に考慮する
  • 政策を総合的に推進する
  • 世論を総合的に把握する

Academic Writing

  • 先行研究を総合的にまとめる
  • データを総合的に考察する
  • 多角的な視点から総合的に論じる
  • 事象を総合的に捉える

Education

  • 生徒を総合的に評価する
  • 能力を総合的に伸ばす
  • 総合的な学習の時間
  • 知識を総合的に活用する

Inicios de conversación

"「新しいスマホを買うとき、何を総合的に判断して決めますか?」 (When buying a new phone, what do you judge comprehensively to decide?)"

"「今の仕事を総合的に評価すると、100点満点で何点ですか?」 (If you evaluate your current job comprehensively, what score out of 100 would you give?)"

"「旅行先を選ぶとき、場所や予算をどう総合的に考えますか?」 (When choosing a travel destination, how do you think about location and budget comprehensively?)"

"「最近のニュースについて、総合的にどう思いますか?」 (What do you think comprehensively about recent news?)"

"「自分の強みを総合的に分析したことがありますか?」 (Have you ever analyzed your own strengths comprehensively?)"

Temas para diario

今日の自分の行動を総合的に振り返ってみましょう。良かった点と改善点は何ですか? (Reflect on today's actions comprehensively. What were the good points and areas for improvement?)

将来の夢を実現するために、今何が必要か総合的に考えて書いてください。 (Think comprehensively about what is needed now to realize your future dreams and write it down.)

あなたが一番尊敬する人について、その人の魅力を総合的に説明してください。 (Explain the charm of the person you respect most comprehensively.)

最近読んだ本や見た映画について、総合的な感想を書いてください。 (Write a comprehensive impression of a book you recently read or a movie you saw.)

理想の生活について、場所、仕事、人間関係を総合的に含めて描写してください。 (Describe your ideal life, including location, work, and relationships comprehensively.)

Preguntas frecuentes

10 preguntas

It sounds a bit too formal. If you use it for coffee, it might sound like a joke. Use 'いろいろ考えて' (iroiro kangaete) for small daily choices.

総合的 (sōgō-teki) is an adjective (e.g., 総合的な判断 - a comprehensive judgment). 総合的に (sōgō-teki ni) is an adverb (e.g., 総合的に判断する - to judge comprehensively).

Yes, it frequently appears in N3, N2, and N1 levels, especially in the reading and listening sections where a summary or conclusion is being made.

Not necessarily. You can 'comprehensively judge' that a project is a failure. It refers to the *method* of thinking, not the *result*.

Yes, '総合的に見て' is one of the most common phrases. It means 'All things considered' or 'Looking at the big picture'.

In Japan, a school that has many departments is often called a '総合学科' (sōgō gakka) or '総合高校' (sōgō kōkō).

Yes, it's very professional. For example: 'ご提案いただいた内容を総合的に検討し、後ほどご連絡します。' (We will consider your proposal comprehensively and contact you later.)

Yes, you can evaluate a person's ability '総合的に'. It means you aren't just looking at one skill but their whole personality and talent.

The most direct opposite is '部分的に' (partially) or '一面的な' (one-sided).

No. 'Totally' is often '完全に' (completely) or '全く' (entirely). 'Sōgō-teki ni' specifically implies a process of balancing different factors.

Ponte a prueba 200 preguntas

writing

Write a sentence using '総合的に判断する' to explain why you chose your current house/apartment.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
writing

Translate: 'We need to analyze the data comprehensively.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
writing

Explain in one sentence what '総合的に' means in Japanese.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
writing

Write a formal sentence to a boss saying you are considering a proposal comprehensively.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
writing

Create a sentence using '総合的に見て' and '合格' (pass).

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
writing

Translate: 'Looking at it comprehensively, this plan is the best.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
writing

Write a sentence about evaluating a student's ability comprehensively.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
writing

Use '総合的に' in a sentence about environmental impact.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
writing

Translate: 'All things considered, the event was a success.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
writing

Write a sentence using '総合的に' and 'メリット' (merit).

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
writing

Translate: 'It is important to look at the situation comprehensively.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
writing

Write a sentence about a doctor's diagnosis using '総合的に'.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
writing

Use '総合的に' to describe a high-quality product.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
writing

Translate: 'We will judge comprehensively based on your interview.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
writing

Write a sentence about a city development plan using '総合的に'.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
writing

Translate: 'I am thinking about my future comprehensively.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
writing

Write a sentence about a sports team's strength using '総合的に'.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
writing

Use '総合的に' to talk about a restaurant.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
writing

Translate: 'We aggregated the opinions of each department comprehensively.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
writing

Write a sentence using '総合的に' and 'リスク' (risk).

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
speaking

Explain why you chose your favorite hobby using 'sōgō-teki ni'.

Read this aloud:

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
speaking

Roleplay: You are a doctor explaining a diagnosis comprehensively.

Read this aloud:

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
speaking

Summarize a movie you liked using 'sōgō-teki ni mite'.

Read this aloud:

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
speaking

Explain a difficult decision you made at work using 'sōgō-teki ni kangaete'.

Read this aloud:

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
speaking

Give a short speech about why people should study Japanese, using the word.

Read this aloud:

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
speaking

Describe your ideal partner using 'sōgō-teki ni'.

Read this aloud:

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
speaking

Evaluate your own Japanese skills comprehensively.

Read this aloud:

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
speaking

Tell a friend which smartphone to buy using 'sōgō-teki ni'.

Read this aloud:

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
speaking

Explain a news event you heard about using 'sōgō-teki ni'.

Read this aloud:

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
speaking

Propose a travel plan to a group, justifying it with 'sōgō-teki ni'.

Read this aloud:

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
speaking

Describe a person you respect, focusing on their 'sōgō-teki' ability.

Read this aloud:

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
speaking

Explain the importance of a balanced diet using 'sōgō-teki ni'.

Read this aloud:

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
speaking

Reject a fake business proposal politely using the word.

Read this aloud:

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
speaking

Describe your hometown's appeal comprehensively.

Read this aloud:

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
speaking

Talk about a sports match and why a team won 'sōgō-teki ni'.

Read this aloud:

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
speaking

Explain why you want to live in Japan using 'sōgō-teki ni'.

Read this aloud:

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
speaking

Give a 'comprehensive' review of a restaurant you visited.

Read this aloud:

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
speaking

Talk about the pros and cons of AI comprehensively.

Read this aloud:

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
speaking

Explain your 'sōgō-teki' strategy for passing the JLPT.

Read this aloud:

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
speaking

End a meeting by summarizing the 'sōgō-teki' conclusion.

Read this aloud:

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
listening

Listen for '総合的に' in a news clip and identify the topic.

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
listening

In a conversation, does the speaker use 'sōgō-teki ni' for lunch or a career?

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
listening

True or False: The speaker said they only looked at the price.

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
listening

Identify the verb that followed 'sōgō-teki ni' in the recording.

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
listening

What was the 'kekka' (result) after the 'sōgō-teki' consideration?

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
listening

Did the speaker sound formal or casual?

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
listening

Listen for 'sōgō-teki na' vs 'sōgō-teki ni'. Which one was used?

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
listening

What factors did the speaker list before saying 'sōgō-teki ni'?

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
listening

Was the conclusion positive or negative?

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
listening

Who is the speaker? (Manager, child, news anchor?)

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
listening

What is the speaker evaluating?

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
listening

Did they mention 'zentai-teki ni' as well?

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
listening

Listen for the pitch accent on 'sōgō'. Was it correct?

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
listening

What word did they use for 'various circumstances'?

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
listening

What was the reason for the cancellation mentioned?

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:

/ 200 correct

Perfect score!

¿Te ha servido?
¡No hay comentarios todavía. Sé el primero en compartir tus ideas!