Translation guide
The English word "gem" can refer to a precious stone, something excellent, or a valuable person. This guide covers natural Japanese expressions for each meaning.
Referring to a cut and polished precious stone, especially when set in jewelry.
The most common and general word for a gem or jewel. Used for any precious stone, especially when cut and polished.
Describing a thing (e.g., a movie, book, idea) that is of exceptional quality, like a hidden treasure.
Describing a person who is kind, helpful, or exceptionally good in some way.
A straightforward and natural way to call someone a gem, meaning a wonderful person.
The English word "gem" is often used metaphorically, but directly translating it as 宝石 (ほうせき) for a person or thing can sound odd. Use the specific expressions above depending on context.
This little café is a hidden gem.
彼女は宝石のついた指輪をしていた。
She was wearing a ring with a gem.
This gem is very valuable.
Loanword from English, often used for jewelry as a whole, but can refer to gemstones in a fashionable context.
I found a lovely gem at that store.
A more literary or formal term for a precious stone, often used in historical or fantasy contexts.
A large gem was set in the crown.
Refers to an exquisite item, a masterpiece, or something of exceptional quality. Often used for art, crafts, or rare finds.
This movie is a hidden gem.
His collection contains many gems.
Literally 'gem ball', used metaphorically for a small but perfect work, like a gem of a poem or story. Often used in phrases like 珠玉の一編 (a gem of a piece).
This short story collection is full of gems.
Means 'masterpiece'. While broader than 'gem', it can be used when emphasizing outstanding quality.
This novel is a real gem.
Literally 'hidden masterpiece', a common phrase for a hidden gem (movie, book, etc.).
I think this anime is a hidden gem.
She is a real gem.
Literally 'a person like a treasure', conveying that someone is precious and valuable.
You are a gem to me.
Used in professional contexts to mean a valuable person or asset to an organization.
He is a gem of an employee.
手伝ってくれてありがとう、本当に素晴らしい人だね！
Thank you for your help; you're a gem!