Translation guide
The English phrase 'most important' is used to indicate the highest priority, significance, or value. In Japanese, this concept is expressed through adjectives, adverbs, and set phrases that emphasize supremacy or primacy.
Describing something as the single most important thing, person, or factor.
Standard and versatile phrase meaning 'most important'. Used in both spoken and written Japanese.
Health is the most important thing.
The most important point is to be punctual.
Common in everyday conversation. '一番' means 'number one' and '大切' means 'important/precious'.
Literally 'more important than anything'. Emphasizes that nothing else compares.
Means 'top priority'. Often used in business or formal contexts.
Introducing the most significant point in a discussion.
Referring to the top entity in a hierarchy.
重要 (じゅうよう) is more formal and objective, often used for matters of significance or consequence. 大切 (たいせつ) is more emotional and subjective, implying personal value or preciousness. For 'most important', 最も重要な is neutral/formal, while 一番大切な is warmer and more personal.
This document is important.
This photo is important to me.
Family is the most important.
Safety is the most important thing above all.
This project is the most important task.
今日の会議では彼が主役だ。
He is the most important person in today's meeting.