Translation guide
Describes someone who is well-liked, admired, or sought after by others. Japanese expressions vary based on the context: general popularity, romantic appeal, social status, or being a 'people person'.
To describe someone who is liked by many people in a general sense, such as in a community, school, or workplace.
The most common and natural way to say 'popular person'. It implies being liked and well-received by a group.
彼はクラスの人気者だ。
He is a popular person in the class.
A more literal phrase meaning 'a person who has popularity'. Slightly more descriptive than 人気者.
彼女は職場で人気がある人です。
She is a popular person at work.
Often used for romantic or social popularity, implying being attractive or charming. Can sound casual.
彼は本当にモテる人だね。
He's really a popular person (with the opposite sex), isn't he?
To describe someone who is popular in a dating or romantic context, often seen as desirable.
A casual term for a man who is popular with women. Often used in light conversation.
彼は学校一のモテ男だ。
He's the most popular guy in school.
A casual term for a woman who is popular with men.
彼女は職場のモテ女だ。
She's the popular girl at work.
A more formal and gender-neutral way to say 'popular with the opposite sex'.
彼は異性に人気がある人です。
He is a person popular with the opposite sex.
To describe someone who is well-known and influential in social circles, often due to status or charisma.
Means 'famous person' or 'celebrity'. Used when popularity stems from being widely known.
彼は町の有名人だ。
He's a popular figure in town.
Refers to a person who enjoys the trust and respect of others, often in a leadership context.
彼は人望のある人だから、リーダーに選ばれた。
He's a popular person (trusted/respected), so he was chosen as leader.
To describe someone who is naturally good with people, outgoing, and well-liked for their personality.
Means 'sociable person'. Emphasizes the ability to interact well with others.
彼女はとても社交的な人で、誰とでもすぐ友達になる。
She's a very sociable person and quickly becomes friends with anyone.
Describes a person who is affable, charming, and pleasant in social situations.
彼は愛想のいい人で、お客さんに人気がある。
He's a charming person and popular with customers.
人気者 (にんきもの) means 'popular person' in the sense of being liked by a specific group (class, workplace). 有名人 (ゆうめいじん) means 'famous person' or 'celebrity', implying wider recognition. A 人気者 is not necessarily a 有名人, and vice versa.
The direct translation 'ポピュラーな人' is not natural Japanese. Use 人気者 or context-appropriate terms instead.