Translation guide
The English word "elated" describes a feeling of great happiness and excitement, often due to a specific success or event. In Japanese, this feeling is expressed through various adjectives, verbs, and phrases that convey joy, uplifted spirits, or being overjoyed.
Expressing a strong, often sudden feeling of happiness and excitement, typically in reaction to good news or a positive outcome.
Describing a sustained, buoyant mood of happiness and optimism, not necessarily tied to a single event.
Both 有頂天 and 舞い上がる describe being elated, but 有頂天 often implies being so overjoyed that one loses touch with reality, while 舞い上がる focuses more on the excitement and loss of composure. 有頂天 can be used in both positive and slightly negative (being carried away) contexts, whereas 舞い上がる is generally positive but can imply nervousness.
There is no single Japanese word that perfectly matches 'elated' in all contexts. Using a direct translation like '高揚した' may sound unnatural in casual speech. Instead, choose a phrase that fits the intensity and cause of the happiness.
An adjective meaning 'ecstatic' or 'overjoyed', often used when someone is so happy they lose their composure. It can sometimes carry a nuance of being carried away.
彼は合格の知らせに有頂天になった。
He was elated at the news of passing the exam.
A common phrase meaning 'so happy I can't stand it' or 'incredibly happy'. It conveys a strong, almost overwhelming joy.
夢が叶って嬉しくてたまらない。
I'm elated that my dream came true.
A noun/suru-verb meaning 'great joy' or 'delight'. It is straightforward and commonly used to describe being elated.
彼女はプレゼントをもらって大喜びだった。
She was elated to receive the present.
Literally 'to soar up', this verb is used figuratively to mean 'to be elated' or 'to be beside oneself with joy', often implying a loss of calm due to happiness.
彼は褒められて舞い上がっている。
He is elated after being praised.
A noun meaning 'wild joy' or 'ecstasy'. It is a stronger, more intense term, often used in literary or dramatic contexts.
優勝の瞬間、チームは狂喜した。
At the moment of victory, the team was elated.
An adverb/to-suru verb meaning 'cheerful', 'lighthearted', or 'buoyant'. It describes a happy, excited state where one feels light and carefree.
明日は旅行なので、浮き浮きしている。
I'm elated because I'm going on a trip tomorrow.
A noun meaning 'feeling of exhilaration' or 'uplifted mood'. It is often used in more formal or psychological contexts.
成功の後、高揚感に包まれた。
After the success, I was filled with elation.
Literally 'one's heart bounces', this phrase means to feel cheerful and excited, often in anticipation of something pleasant.
久しぶりに友達に会えるので、心が弾む。
I'm elated to see my friends after so long.