Translation guide
In Japanese, referring to a wealthy person depends on context, formality, and nuance. Common terms range from neutral descriptions to honorific titles, and some expressions are used in specific phrases or literary contexts.
To refer to a wealthy person in a neutral or descriptive way, without strong formality or slang.
The most common and neutral way to say 'wealthy person'. Literally 'money holder'. Can be used in everyday conversation.
He is a wealthy person.
I wish I had been born into a wealthy family.
Slightly more casual/direct than お金持ち. Often used in compounds or set phrases.
That person is filthy rich.
Refers to the wealthy class or high-net-worth individuals. More formal and often used in economic contexts.
Services for wealthy individuals are increasing.
To refer to a wealthy person with respect or in a formal setting.
To refer to a wealthy person in a very casual or slangy way.
From 'celebrity', but in Japanese it often implies a rich, glamorous person. Casual and commonly used in media.
She married a wealthy celebrity.
Nouveau riche, often with a negative nuance of being flashy or lacking class. Use with caution.
To refer to a wealthy person using idiomatic or literary expressions.
Historically a millionaire or wealthy person. Now often used in set phrases like 億万長者 (billionaire).
He became a wealthy man in one generation.
Archaic term for a wealthy person, often a big spender. Rarely used today except in historical contexts.
お金持ち is more polite and common in everyday speech. 金持ち is slightly more direct and can sound blunt. Use お金持ち in most situations.
I want to become rich.
A rich man never fights. (proverb)
Direct translations like '富んだ人' are unnatural. Stick to the expressions listed here.
The wealthy magnate built a museum.
成金趣味の家だね。
That house has nouveau riche taste, doesn't it?
The wealthy of the Edo period lived extravagantly.