Translation guide
The English word "priceless" has two main uses: describing something so valuable that it cannot be given a price, and describing something extremely funny or absurd. This guide covers both meanings with natural Japanese expressions.
Express that something is so precious or unique that its value cannot be measured in money.
Literally 'cannot be bought with money'. A natural, common way to say something is priceless in the sense of being beyond monetary value.
家族との時間はお金では買えない。
Time with family is priceless.
Describe a situation, remark, or expression that is so amusing or ridiculous that it is beyond value.
The katakana word プライスレス is sometimes used in marketing or as a loanword, but it is not common in everyday Japanese. It may sound unnatural or overly commercial. Stick to the native expressions above.
プライスレスな体験
a priceless experience (marketing speak)
Means 'precious' or 'valuable'. Often used for things that are rare or important, not necessarily in a monetary sense.
これは貴重な経験です。
This is a priceless experience.
Literally 'cannot put a price on it'. A direct equivalent to 'priceless', but slightly more formal or emphatic.
この絵には値段がつけられない。
You can't put a price on this painting.
Means 'irreplaceable'. Emphasizes that something is unique and cannot be substituted.
彼女はかけがえのない友達です。
She is a priceless friend.
Means 'intangible'. Used in contexts like 'priceless cultural heritage' or 'intangible assets'. More technical.
無形文化財
intangible cultural property (priceless heritage)
Means 'funny' or 'laughable'. A casual, common way to say something is hilarious.
彼の顔、笑える！
His face is priceless!
Means 'so funny I can't stand it'. Emphasizes extreme amusement.
その話、おかしくてたまらなかった。
That story was absolutely priceless.
Means 'supremely interesting/funny'. A straightforward way to say something is hilariously priceless.
あのコメント、最高に面白かった。
That comment was priceless.
Literally 'something that causes explosive laughter'. Slangy, used for things that are extremely funny.
彼の失敗は爆笑ものだった。
His blunder was priceless.