Translation guide
An interjection acknowledging a clever point or effective counter-argument, often in debate or witty conversation. In Japanese, this is not a direct loanword; instead, various phrases convey a similar sense of conceding a point or recognizing a good comeback.
Acknowledging that the other person has made a valid or clever counter-argument, similar to 'you got me there' or 'fair point'.
Literally 'I've been scored on' (from martial arts like kendo). Used figuratively to admit someone has outwitted you or made a clever point. Casual and common.
A: でも、君の言う通りにしたら前回失敗したよね？ B: 一本取られた。
A: But if we do it your way, we failed last time, right? B: Touché.
Reacting to a sharp, humorous, or ironic reply, often in a friendly banter.
Means 'You say clever things' or 'Nice one!' Used to praise a witty remark. Friendly and casual.
The French word 'touché' is not commonly used in Japanese. Using トゥシェ (tushe) would not be understood. Instead, use the Japanese expressions above to convey the same meaning.
トゥシェ
Touché (not understood)
Literally 'I've been done in' or 'you got me'. A very common, casual way to admit defeat in a verbal exchange. Can be used playfully.
A: いつも遅刻するって言うけど、今日は君の方が遅かったよ。 B: あー、やられた。
A: You always say I'm late, but today you were later. B: Ah, touché.
A polite way to say 'You are right.' More formal, suitable for business or respectful contexts. Not as playful as 'touché' but conveys concession.
A: このデータでは結論を出すのは時期尚早かと。 B: おっしゃる通りです。
A: I think it's too early to draw a conclusion from this data. B: Touché. / You're right.
Literally 'I'm defeated' or 'I give up'. Used when overwhelmed by someone's argument or wit. Can sound a bit dramatic or old-fashioned.
A: 君の理論には矛盾があるよ。 B: 参ったな、その通りだ。
A: There's a contradiction in your theory. B: Touché, you're right.
A: I'm on a diet, so I'll pass on the cake. B: But they say one bite won't make you fat, right? A: Touché.
A set phrase meaning 'well put' or 'aptly said'. Slightly formal or literary, but can be used in conversation to acknowledge a clever expression.
A: 彼の説明はまさに「帯に短し襷に長し」だね。 B: 言い得て妙だ。
A: His explanation is exactly 'too short for a belt, too long for a sash.' B: Touché, well put.
Literally 'one cushion' (from a comedy show where a judge awards cushions for good jokes). Used humorously to praise a witty remark. Very casual and pop-culture reference.
A: 君の案は「画餅」だね。 B: それを言うなら「絵に描いた餅」でしょ。 A: 座布団一枚！
A: Your plan is a 'rice cake in a picture.' B: You mean 'pie in the sky.' A: Touché! (One cushion!)