Translation guide
The English word 'auspicious' describes something that suggests future success or good fortune. In Japanese, this concept is expressed through a variety of words and phrases depending on the context, such as formal occasions, everyday luck, or symbolic meanings.
Describing an event, sign, or start that suggests a positive future result.
Common phrase meaning 'lucky' or 'auspicious', often used for omens, events, or items believed to bring good fortune.
今日は縁起がいい日だ。
Today is an auspicious day.
That dream is said to be auspicious.
A noun meaning 'good omen' or 'auspicious sign', often used in formal or literary contexts.
これは吉兆だ。
This is an auspicious sign.
An adjective meaning 'happy', 'auspicious', or 'celebratory', used for occasions like weddings or New Year.
今日はめでたい日ですね。
Today is an auspicious day, isn't it?
Literally 'the first sign is good', used when an initial event suggests a favorable outcome.
初日から売上が好調で、幸先がいい。
Sales are strong from the first day, which is auspicious.
Referring to objects, colors, numbers, or symbols believed to attract good luck.
A noun for 'lucky charm' or 'auspicious item', such as a talisman or traditional decoration.
この置物は縁起物です。
This ornament is an auspicious item.
A formal term for 'auspicious sign' or 'good omen', often used in religious or artistic contexts.
A phrase meaning 'to bring good fortune', used for things believed to attract luck.
この猫は福を呼ぶと言われている。
This cat is said to be auspicious.
Used in highly formal, traditional, or ceremonial contexts to denote good fortune or propriety.
A formal noun for 'auspicious event' or 'happy occasion', such as a wedding or birth.
本日は慶事にふさわしい日取りです。
Today is an auspicious date for a celebration.
A very formal or literary term for 'auspicious sign' or 'good omen', often used in historical or imperial contexts.
縁起がいい focuses on luck and omens, while めでたい is more about happiness and celebration. Use 縁起がいい for signs and superstitions, and めでたい for joyful events.
四つ葉のクローバーは縁起がいい。
A four-leaf clover is auspicious.
結婚式はめでたい。
A wedding is auspicious/celebratory.
Directly translating 'auspicious' as 幸運な (こううんな) is unnatural in most contexts. Use the phrases above depending on the situation.
この模様は吉祥を表しています。
This pattern represents auspiciousness.
A white deer was considered an auspicious sign.