Translation guide
A person highly skilled in music or another art, or a performance/quality showing exceptional skill.
Referring to a person with extraordinary technical ability in music or performing arts.
Commonly used for a master artist, especially in classical music or fine arts. Conveys respect and established reputation.
彼はピアノの巨匠として知られている。
He is known as a piano virtuoso.
Literally 'master hand'. Used for someone highly skilled in a specific instrument or art. Slightly less formal than 巨匠.
彼女はバイオリンの名手だ。
She is a violin virtuoso.
Means 'expert' or 'master'. Can be used for any field, including music. Emphasizes high level of skill.
彼はギターの達人だ。
He is a guitar virtuoso.
Refers to a great master or authority, often in traditional arts or academic fields. More formal and literary.
彼は書道の大家である。
He is a virtuoso of calligraphy.
Describing a performance, piece, or display that is technically brilliant.
A 'masterful performance'. Commonly used for concerts, recitals, or acting.
昨夜のコンサートは本当に名演だった。
Last night's concert was a true virtuoso performance.
Means 'exquisite skill' or 'wonderful technique'. Can refer to a specific display of virtuosity.
Literally 'transcendent technique'. Used for jaw-dropping technical displays, often in music or magic. Can sound hyperbolic.
その曲は超絶技巧を要する。
That piece requires virtuoso technique.
Extending the meaning to a master in any domain, like sports, cooking, etc.
The most versatile term for a virtuoso in any field. Works for martial arts, programming, cooking, etc.
彼は料理の達人だ。
He is a culinary virtuoso.
Often used for recognized masters in traditional arts, games (like shogi), or crafts. Implies a title or high status.
The direct loanword ヴィルトゥオーソ exists but is rare and sounds unnatural in most contexts. Stick to native Japanese terms.
巨匠 implies a grand master with a long career, often in classical arts. 名手 focuses on technical skill in a specific instrument or art. 達人 is the most flexible and can be used for any field, including modern skills.
The audience was captivated by his piano virtuosity.
彼は将棋の名人だ。
He is a virtuoso of shogi.