Translation guide
To be noticeably different or prominent, either visually or in terms of quality/performance. Japanese uses different expressions depending on whether something stands out positively, negatively, or simply catches the eye.
To describe something that is easily noticed because of its appearance, color, or contrast with surroundings.
The most common and neutral way to say something stands out visually. Can be used for both positive and negative attention.
Her red dress really stood out at the party.
Implies standing out in a striking or remarkable way, often positively. More emphatic than 目立つ.
Means 'stands out conspicuously' or 'is especially prominent'. Used when something is noticeably more prominent than others.
To describe a person or thing that is clearly better than others in a group.
To describe someone or something that attracts attention for the wrong reasons, such as being out of place or inappropriate.
Means to stand out in a negative sense, like not fitting in or being out of place. Often used for people who don't match the group.
To emphasize that something is unique or easily distinguishable.
目立つ is neutral and can be positive or negative. 際立つ is strongly positive and emphasizes excellence. 浮く is negative and implies not fitting in.
He stands out because he's tall. (neutral)
This sign stands out even from a distance.
彼の才能はクラスの中で際立っている。
His talent stands out in the class.
That building stands out conspicuously in the cityscape.
Means to stand out by being superior or excelling. Often used for skills or performance.
He stands out in math grades among his classmates.
Literally 'show one's head/horns', meaning to distinguish oneself or rise above others, often in a competitive field.
He has begun to stand out among the younger members.
Means to excel or be preeminent. Very formal and often used in written contexts.
His skill stands out so much that others cannot keep up.
He was the only one not wearing a suit, so he stood out (in a bad way).
Literally 'bad standing out', meaning to stand out in an unfavorable or embarrassing way.
That flashy tie stood out in a bad way at the interview.
Means to stand out with unique brilliance or originality. Often used for creative works or exceptional individuals.
The artist's works stand out as unique.
Means to protrude or stand out, often used figuratively for something that is markedly different or extreme.
His opinion stood out in the meeting.
彼のリーダーシップは際立っている。
His leadership stands out. (positive)
He stood out awkwardly at the party. (negative)
Do not translate 'stand out' literally as 外に立つ (stand outside). That means physically standing outside a place.