Translation guide
The English word 'powerful' can describe physical strength, influence, effectiveness, or intensity. Japanese has many equivalents, and the best choice depends on what is being described. This guide organizes the most useful options by meaning.
Describing something with great physical power, such as a person, machine, engine, or natural force.
The most common and versatile word for 'powerful' in the sense of physical strength or force. Used for machines, engines, magnets, chemicals, etc.
This engine is very powerful.
A loanword from English, often used in casual or marketing contexts. Implies a sense of energetic power, often for people, performances, or products.
His singing voice is powerful.
Literally 'strong in power', often used for physical actions, voices, or support that feels reassuringly strong.
His handshake was powerful.
Describing a person, organization, country, or position that has a lot of control or influence.
Means 'influential' or 'prominent'. Used for people, groups, or candidates who have power or strong prospects.
He is a powerful politician within the party.
Can also be used for influence, especially when emphasizing the strength of an organization or support.
Literally 'having power/authority'. A more direct translation for 'powerful' in a political or social sense.
He is in a powerful position.
Describing something that produces a strong effect, such as a drug, argument, speech, or method.
Means 'effective'. Often the best choice when 'powerful' means producing a desired result.
His speech was very powerful.
Also used for potency, especially for medicines, chemicals, or methods.
Specifically for arguments or presentations that are persuasive and powerful.
His argument was powerful.
Describing a strong feeling, smell, light, or other sensory experience.
Means 'intense' or 'overwhelming'. Used for smells, impressions, personalities, etc.
There was a powerful smell.
Can be used for intensity, but 強烈 is often better for sensory experiences.
Used for emotionally powerful performances or expressions.
強力 (kyōryoku) is the most general and neutral word for 'powerful' in terms of strength or effectiveness. 強烈 (kyōretsu) emphasizes intensity and is often negative or overwhelming (e.g., a strong smell). パワフル (pawafuru) is a loanword that feels energetic and positive, often used for people or performances.
力強い (chikarazuyoi) is not a direct equivalent of 'powerful' in all contexts. It specifically implies a sense of reliable strength, often physical or moral support. Using it for a powerful engine or drug would sound unnatural.
強力な支援を得た。
We gained powerful support.
これは強力な薬です。
This is a powerful medicine.
強力なライトで照らされた。
It was illuminated by a powerful light.
彼女の演技はパワフルで観客を魅了した。
Her performance was powerful and captivated the audience.