Translation guide
The English adverb 'highly' is used to intensify adjectives (very), to express a high degree of skill or quality, to indicate a high rank or status, or to speak favorably of someone or something. Japanese uses different expressions depending on the specific meaning.
To emphasize an adjective, meaning 'very' or 'extremely'.
A formal and common adverb meaning 'very' or 'extremely'. Suitable for both spoken and written Japanese.
この問題は非常に難しい。
This problem is highly difficult.
A very common, slightly more casual way to say 'very'. Used in everyday conversation.
この本はとても面白い。
This book is highly interesting.
Similar to 非常に, meaning 'very' or 'extremely'. Often used in formal contexts.
大変申し訳ありません。
I am highly sorry.
A formal, emphatic adverb meaning 'extremely'. Often used in written or official language.
その結果は極めて重要だ。
The result is highly important.
To describe something done with great skill, or something of superior quality.
Means 'highly' in the sense of advanced, sophisticated, or at a high level. Often used with technical or specialized skills.
彼は高度に訓練された専門家だ。
He is a highly trained specialist.
An adjective meaning 'excellent' or 'superior'. Used to describe highly skilled people or high-quality things.
彼女は優れた能力を持っている。
She has highly capable abilities.
A phrase meaning 'to be highly regarded' or 'to receive high praise'.
その映画は高い評価を受けた。
The movie was highly acclaimed.
To indicate that someone holds a high position in an organization or hierarchy.
Means 'to be in a high position'. Used for people in senior roles.
彼は会社で高い地位にある。
He is highly placed in the company.
An adjective meaning 'high-ranking' or 'senior'. Often used with job titles or levels.
彼は上級管理職だ。
He is a highly ranked manager.
To express that someone speaks or thinks well of something or someone.
Means 'to think highly of' or 'to value greatly'. Commonly used for people, work, or achievements.
上司は彼の仕事を高く評価している。
The boss thinks highly of his work.
A verb meaning 'to praise'. Used when speaking highly of someone directly.
先生は生徒を褒めた。
The teacher spoke highly of the student.
Do not always translate 'highly' as 高く (takaku). While 高く can mean 'highly' in some contexts (like 高く評価する), it is not a general-purpose adverb like 'highly'. Use the appropriate expression for the intended meaning.