Translation guide
The English word 'marvellous' expresses strong admiration, wonder, or delight. In Japanese, the most natural equivalents depend on whether you are reacting to something impressive, describing an extraordinary person or thing, or expressing amazement in casual conversation.
Reacting to something wonderful, excellent, or pleasing, often as an exclamation.
The most common and versatile word for 'marvellous', 'wonderful', or 'splendid'. Used in both spoken and written Japanese.
その演奏は本当に素晴らしかった。
That performance was truly marvellous.
素晴らしい景色ですね。
What a marvellous view!
Emphasizes that something is admirably done or beautifully executed. Often used for performances, craftsmanship, or achievements.
見事な桜だ。
The cherry blossoms are marvellous.
彼の演技は見事だった。
His acting was marvellous.
Casual and very common in everyday speech. Can mean 'amazing', 'incredible', or 'marvellous'. Less formal than 素晴らしい.
すごい！どうやってやったの？
Marvellous! How did you do that?
Often used for things that are charming, lovely, or delightful, such as clothes, people, or experiences. Carries a nuance of elegance or attractiveness.
素敵なドレスですね。
That's a marvellous dress.
Talking about someone or something that is exceptionally good, talented, or impressive.
Means 'astonishing' or 'marvellous' in the sense of being surprising and impressive. Often used in more formal or written contexts.
彼は驚くべき才能を持っている。
He has a marvellous talent.
Means 'mysterious' or 'wondrous'. Used when 'marvellous' implies something almost magical or inexplicably wonderful.
それは不思議な体験だった。
It was a marvellous experience.
Also works for describing people and things as marvellous.
Informal reactions to something surprising or impressive, often as a standalone exclamation.
Slang term that can mean 'amazing' or 'incredible' in a positive sense. Very casual, used mainly by younger speakers.
やばい、これめっちゃ美味しい！
Marvellous, this is so delicious!
Means 'the best' or 'awesome'. Commonly used to express that something is marvellous or fantastic.
彼女は素晴らしい先生だ。
She is a marvellous teacher.
この映画、最高だった！
This movie was marvellous!