Translation guide
The English word 'terrific' is an intensifying adjective meaning 'very good' or 'great'. It is not used in its older sense of 'causing terror' in modern English. This guide focuses on how to express enthusiastic approval in Japanese.
Expressing that something is extremely good, impressive, or enjoyable.
The most common and versatile word for 'terrific' in casual and semi-formal contexts. Can describe people, things, experiences, etc.
Using 'terrific' to emphasize magnitude, force, or intensity (e.g., a terrific noise, a terrific speed).
In modern English, 'terrific' almost always means 'very good'. The older meaning of 'causing terror' is obsolete. Do not translate it as 恐ろしい (おそろしい) or 怖い (こわい) unless the context clearly indicates fear, which is rare.
a terrifying movie (not 'a terrific movie')
すごい is the most flexible and can be used in almost any situation. 素晴らしい is more formal and often used in writing or polite speech. 最高 is very casual and expresses a personal feeling of 'the best'.
You did a terrific job.
その映画、すごかったね。
That movie was terrific, wasn't it?
He's a terrific player.
A more formal and emphatic word for 'wonderful' or 'terrific'. Suitable for both spoken and written Japanese.
That's a terrific idea.
The scenery was terrific.
Literally 'the best', used colloquially to mean 'terrific' or 'awesome'. Very common in casual speech.
This pizza is terrific!
Yesterday's party was terrific.
Same as 素晴らしい but written in hiragana, often used in casual writing or for emphasis.
Terrific!
Often used for things that are charming, lovely, or stylish. Can translate to 'terrific' in contexts like fashion, design, or atmosphere.
That's a terrific dress.
An intensified version of すごい, meaning 'tremendous' or 'terrific' in the sense of extreme degree.
There was a terrific noise.
It's going at a terrific speed.
Can also be used for intensity, but ものすごい is stronger.
It's a terrific rain, isn't it?
Means 'fierce' or 'violent', used for natural forces or intense actions. Can translate to 'terrific' in literary or formal contexts.
A terrific storm came.
すごいね！
Terrific! (casual)
That's terrific. (polite)
Terrific! (very casual, like 'awesome')
That's a terrific idea!
The view from here is terrific.