Translation guide
Expressing that an action, effort, or quality deserves praise or approval. Japanese uses adjectives like 立派な, 感心な, and phrases such as 褒めるべき.
Praising someone's specific action, effort, or behavior as worthy of commendation.
Adjective meaning 'splendid', 'admirable', or 'commendable'. Used for actions, achievements, or character. Often in the form 立派な + noun or 立派だ.
Describing a person's trait, quality, or character as deserving praise.
Same as above, but used for inherent qualities. 立派な人 means 'a commendable/admirable person'.
Used in formal writing, speeches, or evaluations to state that something is worthy of praise.
Formal phrase meaning 'worthy of praise/admiration'. Common in reports, essays, or official statements.
彼の貢献は称賛に値する。
His contributions are commendable.
立派 describes something objectively splendid or admirable, often used for visible achievements or character. 感心 focuses on the speaker's feeling of being impressed, often for effort or attitude. Use 立派 for praising results, 感心 for praising the process or mindset.
立派な家ですね。
That's a splendid house. (focus on the house itself)
毎日勉強するなんて感心だ。
It's commendable that you study every day. (focus on my admiration)
The English word 'commendable' is often used in formal contexts. In casual Japanese, directly translating it can sound stiff. Instead, use simpler praise like すごい, えらい, or よくやった when appropriate.
彼の行動は立派だった。
His actions were commendable.
立派な態度ですね。
That's a commendable attitude.
Noun/suru-verb meaning 'admiration' or 'being impressed'. 感心な means 'admirable/commendable'. Often used when someone's good behavior or skill impresses you.
彼女の努力には感心する。
Her efforts are commendable.
感心な心がけだ。
That's a commendable attitude.
Literally 'should be praised'. A direct way to say 'commendable'. Used in formal or written contexts.
彼の勇気は褒めるべきだ。
His courage is commendable.
Adjective meaning 'admirable' or 'praiseworthy', often used for someone's humble or earnest attitude. Somewhat literary.
殊勝な心がけですね。
That's a commendable attitude.
彼は立派な人物だ。
He is a commendable person.
Also used for objects or results that are impressive and praiseworthy.
立派な成績を収めた。
They achieved commendable results.
Adjective meaning 'splendid', 'magnificent', or 'admirable'. Often used for performances, achievements, or skills. Can imply 'commendable' in context.
見事な演奏でした。
That was a commendable performance.
Exclamation or adjective meaning 'splendid', 'admirable', 'well done'. Has a traditional, sometimes theatrical feel. Can be used sincerely or playfully.
あっぱれな態度だ。
That's a commendable attitude.
Literally 'should be praised'. Similar to 褒めるべき but more formal. Used in written or official language.
賞賛すべき努力だ。
It's a commendable effort.
えらいね！
Good job! / That's commendable! (casual)
えらいね！
Good job! / That's commendable! (casual)