Translation guide
Describes something that cannot be put into words, often due to its intensity, depth, or abstract nature. Japanese uses various adjectives and set phrases to convey this idea, with nuances ranging from emotional overwhelm to sheer magnitude.
To say that a feeling or experience is so deep or moving that it cannot be expressed in words.
A common and versatile adjective meaning 'cannot be expressed in words'. Suitable for both emotional and abstract contexts.
その美しさは言葉では言い表せない。
That beauty is inexpressible in words.
感謝の気持ちは言い表せないほどです。
My gratitude is beyond words.
To indicate that something is so large, numerous, or extreme that it cannot be adequately described.
A straightforward phrase meaning 'cannot express'. Works for both tangible and intangible things that are beyond description.
その被害の大きさは表現できない。
The scale of the damage is inexpressible.
Both mean 'inexpressible', but 言い表せない is slightly more formal and often used in writing. 言葉にできない is more conversational and directly conveys the inability to verbalize feelings. In casual speech, 言葉にできない is more common.
嬉しくて言葉にできない！
I'm so happy I can't put it into words!
While 言い表せない is a direct equivalent, overusing it can sound stiff. In many contexts, Japanese speakers prefer simpler phrases like すごく (very) or 本当に (really) combined with an adjective, or they may use なんとも言えない (it's hard to say/indescribable) for a more natural feel.
A very natural, slightly more colloquial phrase meaning 'cannot put into words'. Often used for strong emotions.
この悲しみは言葉にできない。
This sadness is inexpressible.
言葉にできないほどの感動を覚えた。
I was moved beyond words.
A formal, literary expression meaning 'difficult to describe with pen and tongue'. Used in writing or formal speech for profound experiences.
その光景は筆舌に尽くしがたい美しさだった。
The scene was of an inexpressible beauty.
A literary term meaning 'hard to describe or name'. Often used for eerie or indescribable atmospheres.
名状しがたい不安に襲われた。
I was seized by an inexpressible anxiety.
Similar to 言い表せない, but slightly more formal. Emphasizes the limitation of words.
その苦しみは言葉では表せない。
That suffering is inexpressible in words.
Means 'immeasurable' or 'unfathomable'. Often used for vast, abstract concepts like influence or depth.
彼の功績は計り知れない。
His achievements are inexpressible (immeasurable).