Translation guide
Describes something designed to work for everyone or every situation, often implying a lack of customization. In Japanese, this concept is expressed through phrases emphasizing universality, standardization, or adaptability rather than a single direct equivalent.
Describing a product, policy, or approach that is designed to suit everyone without individual adjustment.
Literally 'fits anyone'. A natural way to say something is universally suitable, often used for clothing, products, or approaches.
このデザインは誰にでも合うわけではない。
This design isn't one-size-fits-all.
Means 'for everyone' or 'universal'. Often used for products, services, or content that appeal to a broad audience.
この本は万人向けではない。
This book isn't one-size-fits-all.
Means 'uniform' or 'across-the-board'. Used for rules, policies, or treatments applied to everyone without exception.
一律の対応では問題が起きる。
A one-size-fits-all approach causes problems.
Loanword from English 'almighty', used to describe something versatile or all-purpose. Casual and somewhat colloquial.
このツールはオールマイティーに使える。
This tool can be used in a one-size-fits-all way.
Describing something that can be adjusted or is inherently flexible enough to work in many contexts.
Commonly used for clothing that is free-size or one-size-fits-all. Also used metaphorically for adaptable things.
この帽子はフリーサイズです。
This hat is one-size-fits-all.
Literally 'having elasticity'. Used for stretchy clothing, but can metaphorically describe flexible systems or approaches.
伸縮性のある素材でできている。
It's made of a one-size-fits-all material.
Means 'flexible' or 'adaptable'. Used for people, systems, or rules that can accommodate different situations.
このシステムは融通が利かない。
This system isn't one-size-fits-all.
Criticizing something for being too generic, ignoring individual differences, or being a blunt instrument.
Idiom meaning 'lumping everything together' or 'treating all alike without distinction'. Strongly negative nuance.
十把一絡げに扱わないでください。
Please don't treat us as one-size-fits-all.
Means 'uniform' or 'standardized' in a negative sense, implying lack of individuality or creativity.
画一的な教育には反対だ。
I'm against one-size-fits-all education.
There is no single Japanese word that directly translates 'one-size-fits-all'. Using a literal translation like 一つのサイズが全てに合う would sound unnatural. Instead, choose a phrase based on the nuance you want to convey.
フリーサイズ is primarily used for clothing and accessories, while 誰にでも合う can be used more broadly for any product, idea, or approach.
Refers to a traditional candy with the same face pattern throughout, metaphorically meaning 'all the same' or 'cookie-cutter'. Vivid but less common.
この会社の社員は金太郎飴みたいだ。
The employees at this company are all one-size-fits-all.