Translation guide
The English word 'ripper' can refer to a tool, a person, or be used as slang. This guide covers how to express these meanings naturally in Japanese.
A tool or device designed to rip, cut, or tear materials such as fabric, paper, or soil.
The direct loanword from English, commonly used for tools like seam rippers or paper rippers. Widely understood in technical and crafting contexts.
縫い目をほどくのにリッパーを使います。
I use a ripper to undo seams.
A general term for a cutter or cutting tool. Can be used for ripping tools in some contexts, but less specific than リッパー.
このカッターで布を切ってください。
Please cut the cloth with this cutter.
Refers to a crushing or shredding machine, such as a rock ripper or industrial shredder. Technical term.
この破砕機は岩を細かく砕きます。
This crusher breaks rocks into small pieces.
A person who rips something, often in a destructive or forceful manner.
Literally 'a person who tears apart'. Used for someone who rips things like paper or fabric.
彼は紙を引き裂く人だ。
He is a ripper of paper.
Means 'a person who tears or breaks'. More general, can imply breaking rules or tearing objects.
その手紙を破る人は誰ですか？
Who is the person who ripped that letter?
Australian/British slang meaning something excellent, fantastic, or a great example of its kind.
There is no direct slang equivalent. Use common Japanese expressions for 'amazing' or 'excellent' depending on context.
この曲は最高だ！
This song is a ripper!
彼のプレーは素晴らしかった。
His play was a ripper.
Means 'the best' or 'awesome'. A safe, common way to express that something is a ripper.
あの映画は最高だったよ。
That movie was a ripper.
Slang for 'amazing' or 'insane' (in a good way). Very casual, used among younger people. Can also mean 'dangerous', so context matters.
Can have negative connotations depending on context. Use only in informal situations.
Referring to the historical serial killer.
The standard Japanese name for Jack the Ripper. Literally 'Jack the Slasher'.
切り裂きジャックは19世紀のロンドンで犯行を行った。
Jack the Ripper committed his crimes in 19th-century London.
The English slang 'ripper' meaning 'excellent' does not translate directly. Using リッパー in this sense will cause confusion. Use Japanese praise words instead.
このゲーム、ヤバくない？
Isn't this game a ripper?