Translation guide
The English verb 'admire' covers a range of feelings from looking up to someone, to appreciating beauty or skill, to simply expressing that you like something. Japanese uses different words and patterns depending on what you admire and the nuance you want to convey.
Expressing admiration for a person's character, achievements, or qualities, often with a sense of respect or aspiration.
The most common and direct way to say you respect or look up to someone. It implies a deep respect for their character or achievements.
I really admire him.
She is admired by many people.
Expresses a longing admiration, often mixed with a desire to be like that person or to have what they have. It's more emotional and aspirational than 尊敬.
When I was a child, I admired astronauts.
I admire her way of life.
A formal, somewhat literary term meaning to admire and respect deeply. Often used in writing or formal speeches.
I admire his courage.
Expressing admiration for something's aesthetic appeal, craftsmanship, or excellence, without necessarily involving a person.
Used when you are impressed by someone's skill, effort, or a clever idea. It focuses on being impressed rather than deep respect.
I admired his performance.
I admired that idea.
An adjective meaning 'splendid' or 'magnificent'. Often used as an exclamation to express admiration for something well done.
Wow, I admire that! (That's splendid!)
Means to appreciate art, music, or scenery. It implies a more contemplative, aesthetic admiration.
I admired the paintings at the museum.
Casually saying you admire something, often synonymous with 'I like it' or 'it's great'.
A versatile adjective meaning 'wonderful' or 'splendid'. It's a natural way to express admiration for almost anything.
I admire that dress. (That dress is wonderful.)
A very casual way to say you like or admire something. Equivalent to 'nice' or 'cool'.
Expressing that you think someone did the right thing or showed good judgment.
A pattern meaning 'I think ~ is admirable'. 立派 (りっぱ) means fine, admirable, or commendable.
I admire his decision.
Her actions were admirable.
An adjective meaning 'great' or 'admirable', often used to praise someone's effort or moral action. Can sound patronizing if used to a superior.
The English verb 'admire' is often used lightly ('I admire your taste'), but direct translations like 賞賛する (しょうさんする) can sound overly formal or literary. In casual contexts, use simpler expressions like いいね or 素晴らしい.
尊敬 (そんけい) is respect for someone's character or achievements, often from a distance. 憧れ (あこがれ) includes a personal longing or desire to emulate. You can 尊敬 a great historical figure, but you might 憧れ a pop star whose lifestyle you wish you had.
She admired the view from the mountain.
Or: 景色に見とれた (She was captivated by the view).
His achievements are admirable.
I admire those shoes. (Nice shoes.)
毎日勉強して偉いね。
I admire that you study every day. (You're so good.)