Translation guide
Describes someone or something that is visually attractive or pleasing in appearance. In Japanese, the most common and versatile word is かっこいい, but there are many nuances depending on gender, formality, and context.
To describe a person (often male, but can be unisex) as handsome, cool, or stylish in a general sense.
The most common and versatile word for 'good-looking', 'cool', or 'handsome'. Used for people, clothes, cars, etc. Can be used for both men and women, but often implies a stylish or cool attractiveness.
He's really good-looking, isn't he?
That jacket looks cool!
Slang term specifically for a good-looking man. Very common in casual conversation and media. Not used for women.
Loanword from English 'handsome'. Used almost exclusively for men. Slightly more formal or old-fashioned than かっこいい.
Literally 'beautiful man'. A more literary or formal term for a handsome man. Not commonly used in everyday speech.
To describe a woman as beautiful, pretty, or attractive.
The standard word for a beautiful woman. Can be used as a noun or adjective (美人な).
To describe an object, design, or non-human thing as visually appealing or stylish.
To describe someone who is well-groomed, neat, and attractive in a clean-cut way.
Means 'well-proportioned', 'regular features', or 'handsome/beautiful in a neat and refined way'. Often used for facial features.
かっこいい is unisex but often implies a cool or stylish attractiveness, commonly used for men. 美人 is specifically a beautiful woman. きれい is 'pretty' or 'beautiful' and can be used for women, objects, or scenery. For men, ハンサム is also possible but less common than かっこいい.
He is cool/handsome. She is a beauty.
There is no single Japanese word that perfectly matches 'good-looking' in all contexts. Using グッドルッキング is not natural. Choose based on gender and nuance.
あの俳優はイケメンだよね。
That actor is a hottie, isn't he?
彼はハンサムな顔立ちをしている。
He has handsome features.
He is famous as a handsome man.
She's a beauty, isn't she?
There are many beautiful women.
Means 'pretty', 'clean', or 'beautiful'. Used for both people and things. For women, it's a very common and natural compliment.
You look pretty today.
Means 'cute' or 'adorable'. Often used for women and girls, but can also describe a 'pretty' appearance in a youthful or endearing way. Not exactly 'good-looking' in a mature sense, but very common.
That girl is cute, isn't she?
Literally 'beautiful woman'. Similar to 美人 but slightly more formal or literary. Often used in titles or descriptions.
She is a woman of unparalleled beauty.
As above, works for cars, gadgets, clothes, etc. Implies a cool, sleek, or stylish look.
This car looks cool.
Means 'stylish', 'fashionable', or 'tasteful'. Often used for clothing, interiors, or personal style. Not directly 'good-looking' but conveys attractive appearance through style.
That cafe has a stylish interior.
Means 'looks good' or 'has a good appearance'. More objective and can be used for presentations, food presentation, etc.
This dish looks good (visually appealing).
He has finely chiseled features.
Means 'fresh', 'refreshing', or 'clean-looking'. Often used to describe a man who is neat, clean, and attractive in a wholesome way.
He is a clean-cut, nice young man.
He is good-looking. (unnatural)