Translation guide
The English word "goodness" is an abstract noun referring to the quality of being good. In Japanese, there is no single direct equivalent; the best translation depends on the specific nuance—moral virtue, quality, benefit, or even an exclamation. This guide helps you choose the most natural expression.
Expressing the quality of being morally good, righteous, or virtuous.
Refers to inherent goodness of character, decency, and moral uprightness. Often used in formal or written contexts.
彼の善良な性格は誰からも愛された。
His goodness of character was loved by everyone.
The abstract concept of 'good' as opposed to evil. Common in philosophical or religious contexts.
善と悪の区別を教える。
Teach the difference between good and evil.
Means 'virtue' and can be used for moral goodness, but often implies a specific admirable trait rather than general goodness.
正直は美徳の一つだ。
Honesty is one of the virtues.
Referring to the high quality, excellence, or beneficial nature of something.
The most direct and versatile noun form of 'good' (良い). Used for the good points or merits of something.
この町の良さは静かなところだ。
The goodness of this town is its quietness.
Emphasizes wonderfulness or splendor. Stronger than 良さ.
自然の素晴らしさを感じる。
Feel the goodness (wonderfulness) of nature.
Specifically refers to superiority or excellence, often in skill or performance.
彼の作品の優秀さは認められている。
The goodness (excellence) of his work is recognized.
Talking about the beneficial or nutritious aspect of something, especially food.
Means 'nutrition' or 'nourishment'. Used when 'goodness' refers to the healthful properties of food.
野菜の栄養を丸ごと摂る。
Take in all the goodness of the vegetables.
Refers to the savory, rich flavor that makes food delicious. Can be used for the 'goodness' of taste.
Used as an interjection to express surprise, shock, or for emphasis, like 'Oh my goodness!' or 'For goodness' sake!'.
An exclamation of frustration or exasperation, similar to 'For goodness' sake!'.
ああ、もう！また遅刻だ。
Oh, for goodness' sake! I'm late again.
Expresses shock or surprise, like 'Oh my goodness!'.
なんてこと！そんなことがあったの？
Oh my goodness! Did that really happen?
A mild exclamation of surprise, often used by women. Similar to 'Oh my!' or 'Goodness!'.
まあ！素敵なドレスね。
Goodness! What a lovely dress.
Referring to the fundamental good nature or essence of a person or thing.
Literally 'essential goodness'. Used to describe the core good quality of something.
彼の本質的な良さを信じている。
I believe in his innate goodness.
A philosophical term meaning 'inherent goodness of human nature', often used in the context of Mencius.
性善説を信じる。
Believe in the innate goodness of human nature.
The English word 'goodness' is highly abstract and context-dependent. There is no single Japanese word that covers all its uses. Always consider the specific meaning you want to convey.
良さ (yosa) is the general noun form of 'good' and can be used for quality, merit, or benefit. 善良 (zenryou) is specifically moral goodness or decency. Do not use 善良 for the taste of food or the quality of an object.
私は人の善良さを信じている。
I believe in the goodness of people.
このパンの良さは天然酵母から来ている。
The goodness of this bread comes from natural yeast.
なんてこと、鍵を忘れた！
Oh my goodness, I forgot my keys!
This soup brings out the goodness of the ingredients.