Translation guide
Expressions of goodwill, benevolence, or a positive, cooperative attitude in Japanese, ranging from formal set phrases to casual encouragement.
Expressing a general sense of goodwill, kindness, or a positive attitude toward others.
The most direct and common translation for 'goodwill' as a noun, meaning benevolence, good intentions, or a favorable disposition. Used in both formal and everyday contexts.
彼の善意に感謝しています。
I'm grateful for his goodwill.
善意の第三者
a third party acting in good faith
Goodwill in the sense of kindness, favor, or friendly feelings. Often implies a personal, warm attitude rather than abstract benevolence.
ご好意に甘えて、お言葉に甘えます。
I'll take you up on your kind offer.
Literally 'a lump of goodwill', used to describe someone who is extremely kind-hearted or full of good intentions.
彼女は善意の塊のような人だ。
She is a person full of goodwill.
Referring to goodwill in a business sense, such as customer loyalty, brand reputation, or a gesture of cooperation.
The standard accounting term for 'goodwill' as an intangible asset. Also used metaphorically for the reputation or trust a business has built.
のれん代を支払う
to pay for goodwill
Often expressed as 善意の印 (しるし) or 好意の表れ (あらわれ). In business, a 'goodwill gesture' might be described as 誠意を示す (せいいをしめす) to show sincerity.
善意の印として、無料でサービスを提供した。
As a goodwill gesture, we provided the service for free.
The phrase 'goodwill toward men' or 'peace on earth, goodwill to all' in a Christmas or religious context.
A common Japanese translation of the biblical phrase 'peace on earth, goodwill toward men' (Luke 2:14). Used in Christmas carols and religious contexts.
「地には平和、御心に適う人にあれ」と天使は歌った。
The angels sang, 'Peace on earth, goodwill to men.'
Describing a spirit of cooperation, friendliness, or willingness to get along, often in interpersonal or diplomatic contexts.
Literally 'friendly attitude', this phrase captures the sense of goodwill as a cooperative and amicable stance.
彼はいつも友好的な態度で接してくれる。
He always treats me with goodwill.
A more formal expression meaning 'cooperative posture', often used in business or diplomatic language to indicate a willingness to work together.
交渉では協調的な姿勢を見せることが大切だ。
In negotiations, it's important to show goodwill.
The specific role of a 'goodwill ambassador', often for organizations like the UN.
The standard translation for 'goodwill ambassador'. Used for official representatives promoting friendly relations.
彼女はユニセフの親善大使に任命された。
She was appointed as a UNICEF goodwill ambassador.
The literal translation 良い意志 (よい いし) is not used in Japanese to mean 'goodwill'. It sounds unnatural and may be interpreted as 'good willpower'. Use 善意 or context-appropriate phrases instead.
善意 (ぜんい) is more about good intentions and benevolence, often used in legal or moral contexts. 好意 (こうい) is about kindness and friendly feelings, more personal and emotional. For 'goodwill gesture', 善意の印 is common; for 'kind offer', ご好意 is better.