Translation guide
Describes someone or something that is exceptionally good, prominent, or superior. Japanese uses different words depending on whether you mean 'excellent', 'prominent', 'conspicuous', or 'far above others'.
To say that someone or something is of extremely high quality or skill.
The most common and versatile way to say 'is outstanding/excellent'. Used for people, things, abilities, etc.
彼は優れた研究者だ。
He is an outstanding researcher.
This product has outstanding quality.
Means 'wonderful', 'splendid', or 'outstanding'. Very common in everyday speech.
彼女の演技は素晴らしかった。
Her performance was outstanding.
Literally 'surpassing the crowd', meaning 'outstanding' or 'exceptional'. Often used in compounds like 抜群の才能 (outstanding talent).
彼は抜群の記憶力を持っている。
He has an outstanding memory.
Similar to 優れている but slightly more literary. Often used for specific skills or traits.
彼女は語学に秀でている。
She is outstanding at languages.
To say that someone or something is noticeable, conspicuous, or stands out from others.
Means 'to stand out' or 'be conspicuous'. Can be positive or negative depending on context.
彼はクラスで目立っている。
He stands out in class.
Means 'to be prominent' or 'stand out markedly'. Often used for striking features or qualities.
Literally 'protruding', meaning 'outstanding' in the sense of being far ahead of others. Can sound strong or competitive.
彼の成績は突出している。
His grades are outstanding (far above others).
To say that a task, payment, or issue remains to be dealt with.
Used for unpaid bills, debts, etc.
未払いの請求書がまだある。
There are still outstanding invoices.
Used for unresolved issues, problems, or cases.
その問題は未解決のままだ。
That problem remains outstanding.
General term for 'remaining' or 'left over'. Can be used for work, tasks, etc.
まだやらなければならない仕事が残っている。
There is still outstanding work to do.
優れている is more objective and often used for skills, quality, or performance. 素晴らしい is more subjective and emotional, like 'wonderful' or 'magnificent'.
この車は性能が優れている。
This car has outstanding performance.
素晴らしい景色だ！
What an outstanding view!
目立つ means 'stand out' visually or socially, not necessarily 'excellent'. Using it to mean 'outstanding' in quality can sound odd.
彼は目立つ服を着ている。
He is wearing conspicuous clothes.
He is wearing conspicuous clothes.
彼女の才能は際立っている。
Her talent is outstanding.