Translation guide
The English word 'slay' has two main uses: the literal meaning of killing violently, and the modern slang meaning of impressing greatly or doing something exceptionally well. This guide focuses on the slang sense, which is most relevant for learners wanting to express admiration or excellence in Japanese.
Express that someone or something is amazing, impressive, or performed outstandingly, similar to English slang 'slay'.
She slayed that performance! · You're slaying in that outfit! · He absolutely slayed the presentation.
A versatile and common way to say something or someone is 'the best' or 'amazing'. Can be used as an exclamation or description.
That dress is amazing!
Her performance was incredible.
A very common adjective meaning 'amazing' or 'incredible'. Can be used in many contexts to express admiration.
That dance is amazing!
He has incredible talent.
Slang term that can mean 'amazing' or 'insane' in a positive way, depending on context. Very casual and commonly used among young people.
Can also mean 'terrible' or 'dangerous' depending on context. Use with positive intonation and situation to convey 'amazing'.
Isn't this song amazing?
Her style is insane!
Means 'cool' or 'stylish'. Often used to praise someone's appearance, performance, or attitude.
That jacket is so cool!
His guitar solo was awesome.
Means 'perfect' or 'flawless'. Used when something is executed without any mistakes, similar to 'slaying' a performance.
Her makeup is flawless.
Express the act of killing someone or something in a violent manner.
The most direct and common verb for 'to kill'. Can be used for people or animals.
He slew the enemy.
Means 'to massacre' or 'to slaughter', implying killing many in a brutal way.
An archaic or literary term for 'to slay' or 'to vanquish', often used in historical or fantasy contexts.
When using 'slay' as slang for impressing, do not directly translate it as 殺す (kill). That would be confusing and unnatural. Use the recommended expressions like 最高 or すごい instead.
That dress is killing it! (unnatural literal translation)
Both mean 'amazing', but 最高 (saikou) literally means 'the best' and implies top-tier excellence, while すごい (sugoi) is a more general expression of being impressed. 最高 can sound more definitive, while すごい is more flexible.
The soldiers slew the villagers.
The hero slew the dragon.