Translation guide
The English word 'sensational' has two main uses: describing something that causes great public interest and excitement, and describing something that is extraordinarily good or impressive. This guide helps learners choose the right Japanese expression for each meaning.
To describe news, events, or stories that are shocking, exciting, and attract a lot of attention, often in a dramatic or exaggerated way.
A direct loanword from English, used as a na-adjective. It is common in media contexts and carries the same nuance of being exciting and attention-grabbing.
その新聞はセンセーショナルな見出しで読者を引きつけた。
The newspaper attracted readers with sensational headlines.
Means 'shocking' or 'startling'. It emphasizes the emotional impact of the news or event. Often used for surprising or scandalous revelations.
To describe something that is exceptionally good, wonderful, or impressive, often in a way that exceeds expectations.
While センセーショナルな can be used for both meanings, it is more strongly associated with the 'causing excitement' sense. For praising something as excellent, 素晴らしい or 最高 are more natural choices. Using センセーショナルな to describe a delicious meal might sound odd.
このケーキは素晴らしい！
This cake is sensational!
彼の辞任は衝撃的なニュースだった。
His resignation was sensational news.
Means 'sensational' in the sense of being inflammatory or designed to stir up emotions, often with a negative connotation of being overly dramatic or manipulative. Used for media or speech.
その記事は扇情的な表現が多すぎる。
That article has too many sensational expressions.
A very common and versatile i-adjective meaning 'wonderful', 'splendid', or 'magnificent'. It can be used in a wide range of contexts to express high praise.
彼女の演技は本当に素晴らしかった。
Her performance was truly sensational.
Means 'the best' or 'greatest'. It is a casual and enthusiastic way to say something is sensational. Often used in everyday conversation.
このピザは最高だ！
This pizza is sensational!
Means 'astonishing' or 'amazing'. It emphasizes the surprising nature of the excellence. More formal and often used in written language.
彼は驚くべき才能を持っている。
He has sensational talent.