Translation guide
The English word 'considerable' describes a large amount, degree, or extent. In Japanese, this concept is expressed through various adjectives, adverbs, and phrases that emphasize magnitude, significance, or noteworthiness. The choice depends on whether you are describing quantity, size, importance, or degree, and the level of formality.
Describing something that is notably large in quantity, size, or scope.
A versatile adjective meaning 'considerable' or 'substantial'. It can modify nouns to indicate a large amount, degree, or extent. Commonly used in both spoken and written Japanese.
かなりの量の仕事が残っている。
A considerable amount of work remains.
He has considerable assets.
Means 'considerable' or 'substantial', often implying that something is more than expected. Slightly more formal than かなりの.
その計画には相当な費用がかかる。
The plan requires considerable expense.
Used for 'considerable' in the sense of 'great' or 'immense', often with abstract nouns like influence, effort, or damage. Formal and somewhat literary.
彼の研究は多大な影響を与えた。
His research had a considerable influence.
A literary expression meaning 'not a little', i.e., 'considerable'. Used in formal writing.
その決定には少なからぬ反対があった。
There was considerable opposition to the decision.
Expressing that something happens or is done to a large extent.
An adverb meaning 'considerably', 'quite', or 'fairly'. It indicates a high degree. Very common in conversation.
今日はかなり暑い。
It's considerably hot today.
彼はかなり上手に日本語を話す。
He speaks Japanese considerably well.
Adverbial form meaning 'considerably' or 'quite'. Slightly more formal than かなり.
Means 'considerably' or 'quite', often implying a noticeable change or difference. Common in spoken Japanese.
Expresses 'considerably' or 'very', often with a sense of surprise or emphasis. Common in speech.
Describing something that deserves attention due to its significance or value.
The most common word for 'important' or 'significant'. It can convey the idea of 'considerable' when referring to importance.
これは重要な問題だ。
This is a matter of considerable importance.
Means 'noteworthy' or 'remarkable', implying that something is considerable enough to pay attention to.
彼の業績は注目すべきものだ。
His achievements are considerable (noteworthy).
Literally 'cannot be ignored', used to express that something is considerable in importance or impact.
その問題は無視できない。
The problem is of considerable concern (cannot be ignored).
All three can mean 'considerably', but かなり is the most common and neutral. 相当 is slightly more formal and often implies a higher degree. 大分 suggests a noticeable change and is often used with verbs of change like 良くなる (get better) or 増える (increase).
English 'considerable' is often used as an adjective before nouns. In Japanese, you must choose the appropriate adjective or adverbial phrase based on context. There is no single word that covers all uses. For example, 'considerable damage' can be かなりの被害, 多大な被害, or 相当な被害 depending on nuance.
かなりの遅れがあった。
There was a considerable delay.
Natural translation using かなりの. Note: corrected reading to かなりのおくれがあった。
彼女はかなり上達した。
She has improved considerably.
この問題は相当難しい。
This problem is considerably difficult.
His illness has improved considerably.
随分遅くなってしまった。
It's gotten considerably late.