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 + noun or .
His actions were commendable.
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.
Her efforts are commendable.
That's a commendable attitude.
Literally 'should be praised'. A direct way to say 'commendable'. Used in formal or written contexts.
His courage is commendable.
Adjective meaning 'admirable' or 'praiseworthy', often used for someone's humble or earnest attitude. Somewhat literary.
That's a commendable attitude.
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'.
He is a commendable person.
Also used for objects or results that are impressive and praiseworthy.
Adjective meaning 'splendid', 'magnificent', or 'admirable'. Often used for performances, achievements, or skills. Can imply 'commendable' in context.
Exclamation or adjective meaning 'splendid', 'admirable', 'well done'. Has a traditional, sometimes theatrical feel. Can be used sincerely or playfully.
Used in formal writing, speeches, or evaluations to state that something is worthy of praise.
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.
That's a splendid house. (focus on the house itself)
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.
Good job! / That's commendable! (casual)
立派な成績を収めた。
They achieved commendable results.
見事な演奏でした。
That was a commendable performance.
あっぱれな態度だ。
That's a commendable attitude.