Translation guide
Describes a physically large man, a person of high status or importance, or a term of endearment for a boy. Japanese equivalents vary by context.
To refer to a man who is tall, heavy, or muscular.
Literally 'big man', used for a physically large or tall man. Neutral and descriptive.
To refer to a man with power, authority, or high status in an organization.
To affectionately address or refer to a young boy, often implying he is growing up or acting mature.
Common phrase meaning 'you've gotten big', used to a child. Not a direct translation of 'big man', but conveys the affectionate sentiment.
まあ、大きくなったね！
My, you've become a big man!
Japanese doesn't have a direct equivalent of 'big man' as a nickname. Instead, use the child's name with くん or ちゃん, and add praise like えらいね (good boy) or かっこいいね (cool).
Directly translating 'big man' as 大男 when addressing a child sounds odd and may be taken literally as commenting on size. Use age-appropriate praise instead.
大物 is more colloquial and often used in media or casual talk about influential people. 重要人物 is formal and suitable for official contexts.
あの大男は誰ですか？
Who is that big man?
A more formal or descriptive way to say 'a man with a big body'. Used in written or polite contexts.
体の大きい男性が入ってきた。
A big man came in.
Literary or formal term for a giant or very large man. Often used in fiction or dramatic descriptions.
その巨漢は片手で机を持ち上げた。
The big man lifted the desk with one hand.
Literally 'big fish', used for an important figure, VIP, or heavyweight in a field. Can be used for both men and women, but often implies a man in context.
彼は政界の大物だ。
He's a big man in politics.
Formal term for an important person. Gender-neutral but can specify 'man' with context.
彼は会社の重要人物です。
He's a big man in the company.
Casual way to say 'important person' or 'big shot'. Often used in everyday conversation.
あの偉い人が来るらしいよ。
I heard that big man is coming.
Refers to a leading figure, authority, or veteran in a specific field. Conveys respect and seniority.
彼は業界の重鎮として知られている。
He is known as a big man in the industry.
たけしくん、えらいね！
You're a big man now, Takeshi!
Means 'like a big brother', used to praise a boy for acting mature or responsible.
もうお兄ちゃんみたいだね。
You're like a big man already.