Translation guide
The English word "gorgeous" is used to describe something or someone as extremely beautiful, attractive, or splendid. In Japanese, there is no single perfect equivalent; the best choice depends on what is being described and the nuance you want to convey.
To compliment someone's looks, often in a striking or elegant way.
The most direct and common word for 'beautiful'. It can be used for people, scenery, art, etc. It carries a sense of elegance and refinement.
彼女は本当に美しい。
She is truly gorgeous.
A very common word meaning 'pretty', 'clean', or 'beautiful'. It is slightly less intense than 美しい and can be used more casually. Often used for both appearance and cleanliness.
Means 'lovely', 'wonderful', or 'charming'. It is often used to describe a person's overall attractive appearance or style, not just physical beauty. It has a warm, positive connotation.
A loanword from English, used to describe something as luxurious, glamorous, or stunning. It often implies a sense of opulence and is commonly used for fashion, jewelry, or settings.
To express that a landscape, sunset, garden, etc., is stunningly beautiful.
Means 'superb view' or 'magnificent scenery'. It is a noun often used in phrases like 絶景だ (it's a gorgeous view).
ここからの眺めは絶景だ。
The view from here is gorgeous.
As above, 美しい works perfectly for natural beauty.
Means 'wonderful', 'splendid', or 'magnificent'. It can be used for scenery, experiences, or achievements. It emphasizes the impressive quality.
To praise the beauty or craftsmanship of something like a painting, piece of furniture, or outfit.
Means 'splendid', 'magnificent', or 'admirable'. It is often used for things that show great skill or artistry, like a beautiful arrangement or a well-crafted item.
この絵は本当に見事だ。
This painting is absolutely gorgeous.
Means 'luxurious', 'lavish', or 'gorgeous' in the sense of richness and opulence. It is used for things like fancy hotels, elaborate decorations, or sumptuous meals.
Again, the loanword works well for glamorous, luxurious items.
To say that the weather is exceptionally pleasant and sunny.
Commonly used for wonderful weather.
今日は素晴らしい天気だ。
It's a gorgeous day today.
Means 'clear weather' or 'perfectly clear sky'. It is a noun often used in weather forecasts or to describe a brilliantly sunny day.
While ゴージャス is a direct loanword, it is not as versatile as English 'gorgeous'. It mainly refers to glamour and luxury, and using it for natural beauty or a person's face can sound odd. Stick to native words like 美しい or 綺麗 for general beauty.
美しい (utsukushii) is more formal and literary, often used for profound beauty. 綺麗 (kirei) is more everyday and can also mean 'clean' or 'tidy'. For complimenting a friend's appearance, 綺麗 is safer and more natural.
夕日が本当に美しかった。
The sunset was absolutely gorgeous.
なんて豪華なホテルなんだ！
What a gorgeous hotel!
You look especially gorgeous today.
That dress is gorgeous on you.
彼女のイヤリングはゴージャスだ。
Her earrings are gorgeous.
美しい夕日ですね。
What a gorgeous sunset!
素晴らしい景色だ。
The scenery is gorgeous.
We stayed at a gorgeous hotel.
このネックレス、ゴージャスでしょ？
This necklace is gorgeous, isn't it?
明日は快晴でしょう。
It will be a gorgeous, clear day tomorrow.