Translation guide
The English adverb 'extraordinarily' intensifies adjectives or verbs to mean 'to an exceptional degree' or 'in an unusual way'. In Japanese, this is expressed through various adverbs and patterns depending on the nuance: extreme degree, remarkable quality, or unusual manner.
Expressing that something is exceptionally good, bad, large, etc., often with a sense of surprise or emphasis.
A formal and strong intensifier meaning 'very' or 'extremely'. Suitable for both positive and negative contexts.
Describing an action done in a way that is not ordinary, often implying a departure from the norm.
Means 'abnormally' or 'unusually', often with a negative or concerning nuance. Can be used for weather, behavior, etc.
今年の夏は異常に暑い。
This summer is extraordinarily hot.
Both mean 'extremely', but 極めて is more formal and often used in written language or official statements. 非常に is common in both spoken and written Japanese.
Do not try to translate 'extraordinarily' word-for-word. Japanese uses adverbs like 非常に or 驚くほど depending on context. Using a direct translation like '異常に' for positive qualities can sound odd.
彼は非常に才能がある。
He is extraordinarily talented.
この問題は非常に難しい。
This problem is extraordinarily difficult.
A formal adverb meaning 'extremely' or 'exceedingly'. Often used in written or formal spoken Japanese.
それは極めて重要な発見だ。
That is an extraordinarily important discovery.
Literally 'to a surprising degree', conveying that something is extraordinarily (surprisingly) good, bad, etc.
彼女は驚くほど美しい。
She is extraordinarily beautiful.
A colloquial intensifier meaning 'incredibly' or 'extraordinarily'. Adds a sense of amazement.
その料理はとてつもなく美味しかった。
The dish was extraordinarily delicious.
Means 'unusually' or 'exceptionally', emphasizing that something is beyond the ordinary. Often used for abilities or qualities.
彼は並外れて記憶力が良い。
He has an extraordinarily good memory.
Literally 'not ordinarily', a straightforward way to say 'extraordinarily' in the sense of 'unusually'.
彼は普通でなく静かだった。
He was extraordinarily quiet.
Means 'exceptionally' or 'particularly', often used in positive contexts like taste or treatment.
この店のラーメンは格別に美味しい。
The ramen at this shop is extraordinarily delicious.