Translation guide
Expressing deep admiration or respect for someone or something in Japanese. The most natural choice depends on what you admire (a person, skill, achievement, etc.) and the level of formality.
Expressing that you deeply respect or look up to someone for their qualities or accomplishments.
The standard verb for respecting or admiring someone, especially for their character, achievements, or status. Suitable for both spoken and written Japanese.
I greatly admire his efforts.
She is admired by many people.
A stronger, more formal word for admiration mixed with respect. Often used in writing or formal speeches.
I greatly admire his courage.
To admire or look up to someone, often with a sense of longing or aspiration. Common when talking about role models or people you wish to be like.
Expressing that you find something impressive, excellent, or praiseworthy.
To be impressed or admire something, often used for skills, ideas, or actions. Can be used in casual and formal settings.
I really admired his skill.
I admired that idea.
To praise or admire, often publicly. More formal and used in speeches, reviews, or official statements.
His work is widely admired.
To highly praise or rave about something. Stronger than 称賛する, often used for critical acclaim.
The movie was greatly admired by critics.
Expressing that you find someone or something visually beautiful or attractive.
To be fascinated or captivated by someone's appearance, often implying you can't take your eyes off them. Casual and natural.
I was lost in admiration for her beauty.
To be entranced or in raptures, often used for beauty, music, or scenery. Has a dreamy nuance.
I admired the scenery greatly.
尊敬する is about respect for someone's character or achievements, often for superiors or elders. 憧れる includes a personal desire to be like that person, common for celebrities or role models. Using 尊敬する for a pop star might sound too stiff; 憧れる is more natural.
I respect/admire my teacher.
I admire that actor (and want to be like him).
Avoid directly translating 'greatly' with adverbs like 大いに (おおいに) or 非常に (ひじょうに) combined with admiration verbs. It often sounds unnatural. Instead, choose a stronger verb like 敬服する or use intensifying phrases like 本当に (ほんとうに) with 感心する.
She greatly admires that singer.