Translation guide
Describes a person, attitude, or action that is morally elevated, principled, and often idealistic. In Japanese, this can be expressed through words emphasizing noble character, lofty ideals, or purity of motive. The most common equivalents are 高潔な and 高尚な, but the best choice depends on whether you are describing a person's character, an ideal, or a way of thinking.
Describing a person of strong moral principles, integrity, and uprightness.
A na-adjective meaning 'noble' or 'high-minded' in the sense of moral purity and integrity. Often used to describe a person's character or conduct.
An i-adjective meaning 'noble' or 'sublime', often implying an elevated, refined character. Slightly more literary than 高潔な.
Means 'upright and clean-handed', emphasizing honesty and incorruptibility. Often used in political or official contexts.
High-minded politicians are rare.
Describing ideas, principles, or speech that are elevated and often idealistic, sometimes with a nuance of being impractical.
A na-adjective meaning 'lofty' or 'high-minded', often used for ideals, culture, or intellectual pursuits. Can sometimes imply being out of touch with reality.
They advocate high-minded ideals.
His talk is too high-minded to understand.
Means 'sublime' or 'lofty', often used for grand, noble ideals or missions. Stronger and more awe-inspiring than 高尚な.
I feel a high-minded mission.
Literally 'burning with ideals', this phrase describes someone passionately high-minded and idealistic.
He is a high-minded young man burning with ideals.
Emphasizing that an action or motive is based on moral principles rather than personal gain.
A na-adjective meaning 'fair and just', 'open and aboveboard'. Used for actions or attitudes that are high-minded in their impartiality and integrity.
He approaches it with a high-minded attitude.
Means 'unselfish' or 'without personal motives'. Describes a high-minded, disinterested approach.
His high-minded, unselfish actions were praised.
高潔な is about moral purity and integrity of a person's character. 高尚な is about the loftiness of ideas, culture, or speech. Use 高潔な for people, 高尚な for concepts.
The English 'high-minded' cannot be directly translated as 高い心 or similar. Use the adjectives provided. Also, be careful with 高尚な as it can sound pretentious or out-of-touch if overused.
気高い心の持ち主だ。
He is a person of high-minded heart.