Translation guide
How to express that someone is clever, smart, or resourceful in Japanese, depending on context and nuance.
Describing someone who is intellectually sharp, quick-witted, or academically bright.
The most common and neutral way to say someone is smart or intelligent. Literally 'head is good'.
He is really smart.
That kid is clever, so they learn quickly.
Means wise, intelligent, or clever. Often used for children or animals, or to imply good judgment. Can sound slightly formal or praising.
What a clever dog!
She made a wise choice.
Means clever, sensible, or well-behaved. Often used for children or pets. Can imply being shrewd or not causing trouble.
He's a clever boy.
Describing someone who can think on their feet, find solutions, or handle situations skillfully.
Means to be quick-witted, resourceful, or able to think on one's feet. Literally 'wit works'.
He's resourceful, so he can solve any problem.
Literally 'head rotation is fast', meaning quick-thinking or sharp. Used for people who process information rapidly.
Means shrewd, sharp, or not missing a trick. Implies being clever in a practical, sometimes calculating way.
Describing someone who is clever in a cunning, manipulative, or dishonest way.
Describing someone who is clever at a particular activity, like using tools or coming up with ideas.
Means dexterous, skillful, or handy. Can also mean clever in managing things or being adaptable.
He is clever with his hands.
She cleverly handled the problem.
Means skillful or good at something. Often used for practical skills. Can imply cleverness in execution.
The English phrase 'be clever' does not directly translate to a single Japanese verb. Use adjectives or phrases like 頭がいい or 賢い to describe a state of being clever.
頭がいい is the most common and neutral for 'smart'. 賢い implies wisdom and good judgment, often used for children or animals. 利口 is similar but can also mean well-behaved.
She's quick-witted, so conversations with her are fun.
He's shrewd, so he succeeded in business.
I was deceived by a crafty politician.
彼は嘘をつくのが上手だ。
He is clever at lying.