Translation guide
The English word 'brilliant' has several distinct meanings: extremely bright or shining, exceptionally clever or talented, excellent or wonderful, and (in British English) a diamond cut. This guide helps learners choose the right Japanese expression for each meaning.
Describing light, colors, or reflective surfaces that are intensely bright or radiant.
Verb meaning 'to shine', 'to sparkle', or 'to glitter'. Used for stars, jewels, eyes, etc. Can also be used metaphorically for brilliant achievements.
The stars are shining brilliantly in the night sky.
Her eyes were brilliant with joy.
Na-adjective meaning 'vivid', 'bright', or 'brilliant' in color. Often used for striking, clear colors.
She wore a brilliant red dress.
I-adjective meaning 'dazzling' or 'blindingly bright'. Used for sunlight, headlights, or anything so bright it's hard to look at.
The sun is so brilliant I can't open my eyes.
Na-adjective meaning 'glittering', 'gorgeous', or 'brilliant'. Often used for luxurious, sparkling decorations or attire.
A palace with brilliant decorations.
Describing a person, idea, or performance that shows outstanding intelligence or skill.
Na-adjective meaning 'excellent', 'superior', or 'outstanding'. Commonly used for academic or professional brilliance.
He is a brilliant scientist.
I-adjective meaning 'wonderful', 'splendid', or 'magnificent'. Can be used for brilliant ideas, performances, or works.
Na-adjective meaning 'genius-level' or 'brilliant'. Emphasizes innate, extraordinary talent.
Na-adjective meaning 'wise', 'intelligent', or 'sagacious'. Often used for a brilliant mind or insightful person.
Expressing that something is fantastic, great, or highly pleasing. Common in British English.
The most common and versatile word for 'brilliant' in the sense of 'wonderful'. Works in most contexts.
That movie was absolutely brilliant.
Na-adjective/no-adjective meaning 'the best', 'greatest', or 'awesome'. Very common in casual speech.
Na-adjective meaning 'splendid', 'magnificent', or 'brilliant'. Often used for impressive achievements or performances.
I-adjective meaning 'amazing', 'great', or 'incredible'. Very common in casual conversation.
Referring to a specific cut of diamond with many facets, or the diamond itself.
Loanword from English 'brilliant cut'. The standard term in Japanese for this diamond cut.
Her engagement ring has a brilliant-cut diamond.
When 'brilliant' means 'very intelligent' or 'excellent', do not use words for physical brightness like 輝く or 眩しい. Use 優秀, 素晴らしい, etc. instead.
素晴らしい is the safest and most versatile for 'brilliant' as praise. 最高 is more casual and emphatic ('the best'). すごい is very casual and can mean 'amazing' or 'terrible' depending on context, but is often used positively.
She graduated with brilliant grades.
That's a brilliant idea.
His performance is brilliant (genius-level).
彼女は聡明なリーダーだ。
She is a brilliant leader.
Brilliant! Well done.
昨日のパーティーは最高だった。
Yesterday's party was brilliant.
That was a brilliant performance.
Brilliant! How did you do that?