Translation guide
The English adjective 'desirable' can describe people, things, qualities, or situations that are wanted, attractive, or worth having. Japanese expresses this idea through different words and patterns depending on what is being described and the nuance (e.g., social desirability, personal longing, objective merit). This guide organizes the most useful Japanese expressions by meaning.
Expressing that something is generally wanted, sought after, or considered good to have.
The most direct equivalent for 'desirable' in the sense of 'preferable' or 'to be hoped for'. Often used in formal or written contexts to describe outcomes, qualities, or conditions.
It is desirable that everyone participates.
A common pattern meaning 'it is desirable that...' or 'it is preferable to...'. Used in guidelines, recommendations, and formal suggestions.
It is desirable to make a reservation in advance.
Means 'desirable' in the sense of 'pleasing' or 'agreeable'. Often used for personal qualities, behavior, or atmospheres. Slightly less formal than 望ましい.
Means 'ideal' or 'desirable' when referring to a perfect or best-case scenario. Often used for conditions, solutions, or outcomes.
We want to find a desirable solution.
Describing someone or something as physically or sexually attractive, or having qualities that make people want them.
The most common and versatile word for 'attractive' or 'charming'. Can be used for people, objects, places, or abstract qualities. Implies a strong power to attract.
Describing items, jobs, or opportunities that are valuable, sought-after, or beneficial to possess.
Literally 'having value'. Used for things that are desirable because they are useful, important, or beneficial. Can be applied to objects, experiences, or information.
Describing behavior, policies, or conditions that are considered good or proper by society.
Both mean 'desirable', but 望ましい (nozomashii) is more about what is hoped for or recommended (often in formal guidelines), while 好ましい (konomashii) is about what is pleasing or agreeable (often for personal qualities or atmospheres). 望ましい is closer to 'preferable', 好ましい is closer to 'likable'.
Let's work hard to achieve a desirable outcome.
His attitude was not desirable.
I want to work in a desirable environment.
She is a very desirable woman.
The design of this car is desirable.
Colloquial verb meaning 'to be popular' or 'to be desirable' in a romantic or social sense. Used for people who attract many admirers.
Apparently he was very desirable back in his school days.
Means 'sexy' or 'sensual'. Describes a person who is sexually desirable in a mature, alluring way. Can be used for appearance, voice, or manner.
That actor has a desirable, sexy voice.
This land is a desirable property for investment.
Means 'popular' or 'in demand'. Describes things that many people want, such as products, destinations, or job positions.
This brand releases products that are desirable among young people.
An idiomatic expression meaning 'the object of envy' or 'something everyone covets'. Used for highly desirable items or positions. Somewhat literary.
That limited edition model is a highly desirable item for collectors.
Again the primary word for 'desirable' in formal contexts. Used for socially expected or recommended actions.
It is desirable to be quiet in public places.
A strong suggestion pattern meaning 'should' or 'ought to'. Implies a moral or social obligation, making the action desirable.
We should protect the environment (it is desirable to do so).
Used for socially agreeable behavior or traits. Less forceful than べきだ, more about what is pleasant or acceptable.
Being punctual is a desirable habit.
a desirable impression (pleasant)
望ましい is not used to describe a person's physical attractiveness. For that, use 魅力的な (miryokuteki na) or other words like 美人 (bijin, beautiful woman) or かっこいい (kakkoii, cool/handsome).