Translation guide
The English word 'notables' refers to important or famous people. In Japanese, there is no single direct equivalent. The best translation depends on context: whether you mean celebrities, dignitaries, prominent figures, or VIPs.
Referring to people who are widely recognized, often in entertainment, sports, or media.
General term for famous people or celebrities. Neutral and widely used.
Many notables came to the party.
Slightly more formal than 有名人. Often used for people of note in specific fields.
Notables from various fields attended the conference.
Loanword from 'celebrity'. Often implies glamour or high society. Casual.
Hollywood notables visited Japan.
Referring to people of high status, often in official or formal contexts.
VIPs, dignitaries. Used for political or business leaders.
Many government notables attended.
Prominent figures, often in local communities or specific circles. Slightly old-fashioned.
Literally 'big shot'. Used for influential people, often in business or politics. Can be casual.
Referring to people who are notable within a particular domain or history.
There is no single Japanese word that covers all uses of 'notables'. Using a direct translation like 'ノータブルズ' is not natural. Choose the term that best fits the context (fame, importance, or specific field).
有名人 is the most common word for 'famous person' and is used in everyday conversation. 著名人 is slightly more formal and often implies recognition in a specific field (e.g., academic, artistic). In many cases they are interchangeable, but 著名人 can sound more respectful.
地元の名士が集まった。
Local notables gathered.
業界の大物が講演した。
Notables from the industry gave lectures.
彼は明治時代の傑物の一人だ。
He is one of the notables of the Meiji era.