Translation guide
The English word "epic" has two main uses: describing something grand and heroic (like an epic poem), and as informal slang meaning "awesome" or "amazing." This guide covers both.
Describing something as having the scale, heroism, or significance of an epic poem or story.
Means 'grand' or 'magnificent' in scale. Commonly used for landscapes, stories, or projects.
Informal exclamation meaning 'extremely good' or 'impressive.'
The word 叙事詩 (jojishi) means 'epic poem' and cannot be used to mean 'awesome.' Using it in casual conversation will cause confusion.
壮大 (sōdai) is for describing something grand in scale, like a movie or landscape. 最高 (saikō) is for expressing that something is awesome or the best. They are not interchangeable.
あれは大失敗だった。
That was an epic fail.
In slang, 'epic fail' is often translated as 大失敗 (daishippai) or 大惨事 (daisanji), not with 'epic' directly.
『ロード・オブ・ザ・リング』は壮大なファンタジーだ。
The Lord of the Rings is an epic fantasy.
壮大な叙事詩
an epic narrative poem
壮大な景色
an epic landscape
Literally 'epic poem-like.' Used for works that resemble epics in scope or style.
叙事詩的な映画
an epic film
Means 'heroic.' Focuses on the heroic deeds aspect of 'epic.'
英雄的な戦い
an epic battle
Refers to a 'masterpiece' or 'epic work,' often used for long novels or films.
歴史大作
a historical epic
Means 'the best' or 'awesome.' Very common and natural in casual speech.
その映画、最高だった！
That movie was epic!
昨日のパーティー、最高だったね。
Yesterday's party was epic, wasn't it?
General word for 'amazing' or 'incredible.' Works in most casual contexts.
すごい！どうやってやったの？
Epic! How did you do that?
Slang for 'insane' or 'crazy' (in a good way). Very informal, used by younger speakers.
この曲、ヤバくない？
Isn't this song epic?
Kansai-origin slang meaning 'super good.' Widely understood.
そのアイデア、めっちゃいいね！
That idea is epic!