Translation guide
Expresses a moderately large amount or degree, more than expected but not extreme. Japanese uses various adverbs and phrases depending on whether you mean quantity, frequency, or degree.
To say there is a considerable quantity or number of something.
A common, neutral way to say 'quite a lot' of something. Combines 'kanari' (quite) and 'takusan' (a lot).
昨日のパーティーには、かなりたくさんの人が来ました。
Quite a lot of people came to yesterday's party.
An adverb meaning 'quite' or 'surprisingly much'. Often used when the amount exceeds expectations. Can be used with nouns (結構な量) or verbs (結構食べた).
この店のラーメンは結構量が多い。
The ramen at this shop has quite a lot of volume.
彼は結構お金を持っている。
He has quite a lot of money.
Means 'considerable' or 'quite a lot'. Slightly more formal than 結構. Often used to emphasize a high degree.
その仕事には相当な時間がかかった。
That work took quite a lot of time.
Literally 'a considerable number'. Used specifically for countable things.
応募者がかなりの数に上った。
There were quite a lot of applicants.
To say something happens often or repeatedly.
Combines 'kanari' (quite) and 'hinpan ni' (frequently). Natural for describing how often something occurs.
彼はかなり頻繁に海外旅行に行く。
He travels abroad quite a lot.
Simple adverb meaning 'often'. In context, it can imply 'quite a lot' when combined with other cues.
最近、彼女とよく会う。
Lately, I see her quite a lot.
Using 結構 to express 'with quite a lot of frequency'. Slightly more emphatic than よく.
彼は結構な頻度で遅刻する。
He is late quite a lot.
To modify an adjective or verb to indicate a considerable degree.
The most direct equivalent of 'quite' when modifying adjectives or verbs. Implies a degree higher than expected.
この問題はかなり難しい。
This problem is quite difficult. (implying 'quite a lot' of difficulty)
彼はかなり走った。
He ran quite a lot.
Also works as an adverb meaning 'quite' or 'surprisingly'. Often used in casual speech.
Means 'considerably' or 'quite a lot'. Often used when a change has occurred or a difference is noticeable.
All three can mean 'quite a lot', but かなり is the most neutral and widely used. 結構 often carries a nuance of 'more than I thought' and is common in casual conversation. 相当 is more formal and emphasizes a high degree, often used in written or serious contexts.
Do not directly translate 'quite a lot' as 全くたくさん or similar. It sounds unnatural. Use the adverbs and phrases above depending on context.
このケーキ、結構おいしいね。
This cake is quite good, isn't it? (implying 'quite a lot' of deliciousness)
Your Japanese has improved quite a lot.