Translation guide
The state of being superior or outstanding above all others in a particular area. In Japanese, this is expressed through nouns, adjectives, and set phrases that convey top rank, supremacy, or unmatched excellence.
To describe someone or something as the most outstanding, excellent, or superior in a field.
A noun meaning excellence, prominence, or preeminence. Often used in formal or written contexts to describe outstanding skill or quality.
His skill is preeminent.
A common phrase meaning 'to stand out from the crowd' or 'to be head and shoulders above the rest'. Conveys preeminence in a vivid, natural way.
Her talent is preeminent.
A noun meaning prominence or being outstanding. Slightly more literary than 卓越, often used for people.
He is a preeminent scientist.
A verb meaning 'to excel' or 'to be superior'. Often used with ～に秀でる to specify the area of excellence.
He excels in mathematics.
To indicate that someone or something holds the highest rank, status, or authority.
Means 'first place' or 'top position'. Commonly used in rankings, competitions, and business contexts.
The company holds preeminence in the industry.
Means 'superiority' or 'dominance', often in a competitive sense. Can imply a favorable position or advantage.
To emphasize that no one else can compare; absolute supremacy.
Means 'there is no one to match' or 'unrivaled'. A strong expression of preeminence.
His achievements are preeminent.
Means 'unparalleled' or 'matchless'. Often used in historical or dramatic contexts, or in gaming for overpowered characters.
A literary, somewhat archaic adjective meaning 'preeminent' or 'crowning'. Used in formal writing.
卓越 is a general noun/adjective for excellence, often used for skills or quality. 傑出 is more about standing out among people, slightly more literary. 秀でる is a verb that requires に to indicate the area of excellence, and is common in both speech and writing.
English 'preeminence' is a formal, somewhat rare word. In Japanese, it's often more natural to use phrases like 群を抜く or 首位を占める instead of a single noun equivalent. Using 卓越 as a direct translation can sound stiff in casual conversation.
They have preeminence in the market.
Literally 'the first person', meaning the leading authority or foremost expert in a field.
He is the preeminent figure in that field.
He boasts preeminent strength.
彼は当代冠たる詩人である。
He is the preeminent poet of our time.