Translation guide
The English phrase 'big catch' can refer to a large haul of fish, a significant achievement or acquisition, or an important person captured or recruited. This guide covers natural Japanese expressions for each meaning.
Describing a large amount of fish caught, often in fishing contexts.
Standard term for a big catch of fish. Used in fishing reports, news, and everyday conversation.
We had a big catch today.
The big catch flag was raised.
Similar to 大漁, but often used in more formal or written contexts, such as news articles or official reports.
This year, the saury catch is abundant.
Literally 'to catch a big one', referring to a single large fish rather than a large quantity. Used in recreational fishing.
I caught a big one yesterday.
Referring to a valuable find, a major success, or an important person recruited, often in business, sports, or romance.
Means 'big shot' or 'big fish' metaphorically. Can refer to an important person recruited or a major deal/acquisition.
He's a big catch (as a player).
Literally 'big harvest', used metaphorically for a great result or acquisition, like a big catch in terms of gains.
Referring to catching a criminal, suspect, or recruiting a key person, often in police or corporate contexts.
The English phrase 'big catch' cannot be directly translated word-for-word into Japanese. Use context-appropriate expressions like 大漁 for fishing, 大物 for important people or things, or 大収穫 for metaphorical gains.
That company poached a big shot.
This exhibition was a big catch (we got a lot out of it).
Means 'bargain' or 'lucky find', like a great catch at a flea market or sale. Not for people.
This vintage clothing is a real find (big catch).
We poached a big shot from a rival company.