Translation guide
Describes a person who is generous and forgiving, especially toward a rival or someone less powerful. In Japanese, this concept is often expressed through specific character traits like broad-mindedness, tolerance, or generosity of spirit, rather than a single direct equivalent.
Describing a person who shows noble generosity, especially in victory or toward those who have wronged them.
The most direct equivalent, meaning 'generous, lenient, magnanimous'. Often used for someone in a position of power who forgives or overlooks faults.
Describing actions or character that are morally elevated, unselfish, and above petty concerns.
Means 'noble, high-minded, magnanimous'. Focuses on moral integrity and purity of character.
The English word 'magnanimous' is relatively formal and literary. In everyday Japanese, it's more natural to describe the specific trait (e.g., 'broad-minded', 'generous') rather than using a single lofty word. Overusing 寛大 or 高潔 in casual conversation can sound stiff.
寛大 (kandai) emphasizes generous forgiveness, often from a superior. 寛容 (kan'yō) emphasizes tolerance and acceptance of differences. For 'magnanimous in victory', 寛大 is better.
彼は敗者に対して寛大だった。
He was magnanimous toward the defeated.
Literally 'broad-hearted'. A common, natural way to describe someone who is generous, tolerant, and not petty.
彼女は心が広いから、そんなことで怒らないよ。
She's magnanimous, so she won't get angry over something like that.
Emphasizes tolerance and acceptance, often of others' opinions or mistakes. Slightly more formal than 寛大.
彼の寛容な態度に感謝している。
I'm grateful for his magnanimous attitude.
Describes a personality that is easygoing, big-hearted, and not bothered by small things. Conveys a natural magnanimity.
彼は大らかな人で、誰とでも仲良くなれる。
He's a magnanimous person who can get along with anyone.
Literally 'large capacity'. Refers to a person's magnanimity and generosity of spirit, often used in formal or literary contexts.
彼の度量の大きさには感服する。
I admire his magnanimity.
彼の高潔な行為は多くの人に感動を与えた。
His magnanimous deed moved many people.
Conveys a sense of sublime nobility and magnanimity, often used in literary or poetic contexts.
彼女の気高い振る舞いに心を打たれた。
I was touched by her magnanimous behavior.