Translation guide
Describing someone as a great person in Japanese depends on the nuance: moral greatness, exceptional talent, historical significance, or admirable character. The most common and versatile word is 偉い人 (erai hito), but other terms carry specific connotations.
To describe someone of high moral character, worthy of respect.
The most common and versatile term for a great person, implying respectability and moral standing. Can be used in most contexts.
彼は本当に偉い人だ。
He is truly a great person.
Emphasizes admirable qualities, often in terms of conduct or achievement. Slightly more formal than 偉い人.
彼女は立派な人ですね。
She is a great person, isn't she?
A person of fine character, often used in formal or written contexts. Implies integrity and moral excellence.
彼は真の人格者だ。
He is a person of true character.
To refer to someone who has made a major impact on history or society.
A great historical figure. Commonly used for people like inventors, leaders, or cultural icons.
エジソンは偉人だ。
Edison is a great person.
A person of great stature or importance, often in a societal or organizational context. Can imply largeness of character.
To praise someone's outstanding abilities or achievements.
A very common, casual way to say someone is amazing or great. Focuses on impressive skills or accomplishments.
あの人はすごい人だね。
That person is really great, isn't he?
A person of great talent or genius. Literary and somewhat rare.
彼は音楽の偉才だ。
He is a great talent in music.
To refer to someone in a high position, sometimes with a nuance of sarcasm.
A slightly ironic or respectful term for people in high positions, like bosses or officials. Often used in business contexts.
お偉方が会議に来る。
The big shots are coming to the meeting.
A superior or boss. Neutral term for someone higher in rank.
偉い人 (erai hito) is a general term for a respectable or admirable person, often used in everyday conversation. 偉人 (ijin) specifically refers to historically great figures and is more formal.
父は偉い人だ。
My father is a great person.
リンカーンは偉人だ。
Lincoln is a great historical figure.
The English word 'great' can be translated as 大きい (big) or 素晴らしい (wonderful), but for a person, these do not convey the intended meaning. Use the terms above depending on context.
彼は会社の大人物だ。
He is a great person in the company.
上役に報告する。
Report to the higher-ups.