Translation guide
The English phrase "very good" is used to express strong approval, high quality, or satisfaction. In Japanese, there is no single direct equivalent; the best choice depends on context, formality, and what is being praised. Common options range from casual exclamations to formal evaluations.
To say something is excellent, great, or really good in everyday conversation.
A very common and natural way to say 'very good' in casual speech. It combines 'sugoku' (very) with 'ii' (good).
この映画、すごくいいよ。
This movie is very good.
そのアイデア、すごくいいね。
That idea is very good.
Means 'the best' or 'awesome'. Used to express that something is extremely good, often with excitement.
このラーメン、最高！
This ramen is very good! (lit. the best!)
Means 'wonderful' or 'splendid'. Slightly more formal than 'sugoku ii', but still common in casual contexts when you want to sound a bit more emphatic.
その演奏、素晴らしかったよ。
That performance was very good.
To evaluate something as very good in a polite or formal setting, such as at work, in a review, or when speaking to a superior.
A direct, polite translation. 'Hijou ni' means 'very' and 'ii' means 'good'. Suitable for formal speech and writing.
この製品の品質は非常に良いです。
The quality of this product is very good.
Works in both casual and formal contexts. In formal settings, it conveys high praise.
お仕事、素晴らしいですね。
Your work is very good.
Means 'excellent' or 'superior'. Often used in written evaluations or formal descriptions of quality.
このシステムは非常に優れています。
This system is very good (excellent).
To enthusiastically agree with a proposal or idea, similar to 'Sounds great!' or 'Very good!' in English.
A casual, friendly way to say 'Sounds good' or 'Good idea'. Often used among friends.
明日、映画に行かない？ ーいいね！
Want to go to a movie tomorrow? — Very good! (Sounds good!)
A polite way to agree. The 'yo' adds a sense of assurance. Suitable for most situations.
この書類にサインをお願いします。ーはい、いいですよ。
Please sign this document. — Very good (Certainly).
To say someone is very good at something, like a sport, instrument, or job.
Means 'skilled' or 'good at'. Often used with 'totemo' (very) to mean 'very good'.
彼はテニスがとても上手だ。
He is very good at tennis.
A more casual synonym for 'jouzu'. Often used among friends or in informal situations.
君、ギターうまいね！
You're very good at guitar!
To say something tastes very good.
The standard word for 'delicious'. Adding 'totemo' (very) makes it 'very good'.
このケーキ、とても美味しいです。
This cake is very good.
A casual, often masculine way to say 'delicious'. Can also mean 'very good' in terms of taste.
このラーメン、うまい！
This ramen is very good!
The phrase 'とても良い (totemo ii)' is grammatically correct but can sound stiff or unnatural in casual conversation. Use 'すごくいい' or '最高' instead for everyday speech.
Both mean 'good'. 'いい' is the modern colloquial form, while '良い' is more formal and often used in writing. In spoken Japanese, 'いい' is more common.
ここの料理はとても美味しいです。
The food here is very good.
それはすごくいいアイデアだね！
That's a very good idea!