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.
彼は純粋に善意でやった。
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.
それは全くの偶然だ。
That's purely coincidental.
全く問題ない。
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.
それは単に誤解だ。
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.
それは単なる好奇心だけだ。
It's purely out of curiosity.
Means 'exclusively' or 'solely'. Often used for dedicated purposes or primary reasons. Slightly formal.
この施設はもっぱら研究用だ。
This facility is purely for research.
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.
Again the best fit, emphasizing purity of motive.
彼女は純粋に彼を助けたいと思った。
She purely wanted to help him.
Literally 'without ulterior motive'. More explicit than 純粋に when you want to deny hidden intentions.
彼は下心なくそう言った。
He said that purely (without any hidden motive).
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.
純粋に嬉しい。
I'm purely happy (my happiness is genuine).
全く嬉しい。
I'm completely happy (totally, utterly).
単に嬉しいだけではない。
I'm not just purely happy (there's more to it).
彼はひたすら謝った。
He purely apologized (did nothing but apologize).