Translation guide
Describes something of superior standard, craftsmanship, or excellence. Japanese offers several adjectives and nouns depending on what is being described—products, materials, performance, or abstract qualities.
To describe items, goods, or services that are well-made, reliable, or of superior standard.
The most direct and common term for 'high quality' in commercial and technical contexts. Often used for products, materials, and manufacturing.
This manufacturer is known for high-quality products.
Implies refined, superior quality, often with a nuance of elegance or luxury. Used for materials, fabrics, food, and experiences.
This hotel provides high-quality service.
Means 'good quality' and is slightly less emphatic than 高品質. Common for everyday items, food, and materials.
High-quality sleep is important for health.
To describe high-quality performance, skills, or work that is outstanding.
To indicate a high rank, grade, or class, often in a hierarchical or comparative sense.
Means 'high-class', 'luxury', or 'premium'. Used for brands, restaurants, and expensive items.
We dined at a high-quality (high-class) restaurant.
Means 'superior grade' or 'first-rate'. Can sound slightly old-fashioned or emphatic.
To describe abstract qualities like character, content, or artistic value.
高品質 (kōhinshitsu) is the most neutral and technical term for 'high quality', often used in specifications. 上質 (jōshitsu) implies refined, elegant quality, often for materials or experiences. 高級 (kōkyū) means 'high-class' or 'luxury' and is associated with expense and status.
While 高品質 is a direct compound, not all contexts use it. For performance, use 高性能; for class, use 高級. Using 高品質 for a person's skill would be unnatural.
Specifically means 'high-performance', used for machines, devices, and systems.
This computer is high-quality (high-performance) and ideal for video editing.
これは上等なワインだ。
This is a high-quality wine.
That store sells high-quality goods at fair prices.