Translation guide
The English word 'trump' can refer to a playing card suit, a decisive advantage, or a verb meaning to beat or outdo. This guide covers natural Japanese equivalents for each meaning.
Referring to the trump suit in card games, or a trump card.
The standard word for a trump card in card games. Also used metaphorically for a decisive resource.
A thing that gives a decisive advantage, especially when held in reserve.
To surpass or defeat someone or something, often by doing something better.
There is no direct Japanese verb equivalent to 'trump'. Use context-appropriate verbs like 打ち負かす (defeat) or 出し抜く (outsmart). Do not use トランプする.
Spades are trump.
彼は最後の切り札を使った。
He played his last trump card.
Borrowed from English, but in Japanese it usually means playing cards in general, not specifically the trump suit. Can be used in context to mean trump.
トランプで何が切り札か忘れた。
I forgot what's trump in this card game.
Metaphorical extension of the card game term. Very common.
この新技術が我々の切り札だ。
This new technology is our trump card.
Literally 'hidden hand', meaning a secret technique or last resort. Similar to 'ace up one's sleeve'.
彼はまだ奥の手を隠している。
He's still hiding his trump card.
Refers to a wildcard or an unpredictable element that can change the situation. Not a direct translation of 'trump' but used in similar contexts.
彼がジョーカーになるかもしれない。
He might be the trump card.
General verb meaning to defeat or beat. Can be used in competitive contexts.
彼はライバルを見事に打ち負かした。
He trumped his rival brilliantly.
To outsmart or outmaneuver, often by anticipating someone's move. Implies cleverness.
彼女は競合他社を出し抜いた。
She trumped her competitors.
To surpass or outdo, often in quality or intensity. Can be used for weather, pain, or competition.
新記録は前の記録を凌いだ。
The new record trumped the previous one.
Literally 'one step ahead', meaning to be superior or have an edge. Often used in the phrase 一枚上手だ.
彼の戦略はいつも一枚上手だ。
His strategy always trumps others.