Translation guide
Expresses that something is highly sought after, popular, or sells well. Japanese uses different expressions depending on whether you're talking about products, people, or services.
Describe a product, item, or service that is extremely popular and selling quickly.
Literally 'selling like flying', this is the most common natural way to say something is selling like hotcakes. Used for physical goods, tickets, etc.
新作のゲームは飛ぶように売れている。
The new game is selling like hotcakes.
Means 'in great demand' for people or things that everyone wants. Originally referred to an octopus being pulled apart, now means something so popular it's being fought over.
彼女は今、引っ張りだこのデザイナーだ。
She is a designer in great demand right now.
Means 'popular'. Combine with がある or が高い to express high demand. More general than 'selling well'.
この商品はとても人気がある。
This product is very popular (in great demand).
A slightly formal/business phrase meaning 'sales are strong'. Used in reports or news.
新製品の売れ行きが好調だ。
Sales of the new product are strong.
Means 'in short supply' due to high demand. Often used when items are sold out or hard to find.
人気のため、品薄状態が続いている。
Due to popularity, it continues to be in short supply.
Describe a person whose skills or presence is wanted by many, such as a professional, artist, or speaker.
The go-to expression for a person in high demand. Works for freelancers, consultants, entertainers, etc.
彼は引っ張りだこのカメラマンだ。
He is a photographer in great demand.
Literally 'demand is high'. More formal and can be used for skills or professions.
ITエンジニアの需要が高い。
IT engineers are in great demand.
Express that a hotel, restaurant, or event is completely booked due to high demand.
Means 'reservations are flooding in'. Emphasizes the rush of demand.
新ホテルに予約が殺到している。
Reservations are flooding in for the new hotel.
A set phrase meaning 'sold out, thank you'. Often seen on signs for events or performances.
コンサートは満員御礼だ。
The concert is sold out (due to great demand).
Means 'to be scrambled for'. Used when people compete to get something limited.
限定チケットは取り合いになった。
The limited tickets were in great demand (people scrambled for them).
引っ張りだこ is used for both people and things that are wanted by many, while 飛ぶように売れる is specifically for items selling rapidly. Use 引っ張りだこ for a popular consultant, and 飛ぶように売れる for a bestselling book.
Direct translations like '大きい需要' are unnatural. Use the phrases above instead.
Literally 'many pulling hands', meaning many offers or invitations. Slightly literary or formal.
彼女は引く手あまたの通訳者だ。
She is an interpreter with many offers (in great demand).