Translation guide
The English adverb 'terribly' is used in two main ways: as an intensifier meaning 'very' or 'extremely', and to mean 'in a terrible manner' or 'very badly'. This guide covers natural Japanese expressions for both uses, with a focus on common intensifiers and warnings about literal translations.
To emphasize an adjective or adverb, similar to 'very' or 'extremely'. Often used in British English with negative or positive adjectives.
The most common and neutral intensifier, equivalent to 'very'. Suitable for most situations.
A very common casual intensifier, stronger than とても. Used in everyday conversation.
すごく疲れた。
I'm terribly tired.
その映画、すごく面白かった。
That movie was terribly interesting.
A formal intensifier, often used in writing or formal speech. Equivalent to 'extremely'.
非常に残念です。
I'm terribly sorry.
この問題は非常に重要だ。
This issue is terribly important.
Very casual slang intensifier, mainly used by younger speakers. Similar to 'super' or 'crazy'.
めっちゃ楽しかった！
It was terribly fun!
To describe an action done poorly, or a state that is severe and unpleasant.
Adverbial form of ひどい (terrible). Means 'terribly', 'awfully', or 'badly'. Can describe both actions and states.
彼はひどく酔っていた。
He was terribly drunk.
試験でひどく失敗した。
I failed terribly on the exam.
Intensifier meaning 'tremendously' or 'terribly'. Often used for extreme degrees, both positive and negative.
ものすごく痛い。
It hurts terribly.
ものすごく混んでいた。
It was terribly crowded.
Literally 'frighteningly', used as an intensifier like 'terribly' or 'dreadfully'. Can sound dramatic.
恐ろしく寒い日だった。
It was a terribly cold day.
English 'terribly' as an intensifier does not carry a negative meaning. Do not use ひどく or 恐ろしく for neutral emphasis like 'terribly nice'. Use とても or すごく instead.
彼女はとても親切だった。
She was terribly kind.
とても is neutral and safe for most situations. すごく is more casual and emphatic. 非常に is formal and often written. Choose based on context.
とても嬉しいです。
I'm very happy. (polite)
すごく嬉しい！
I'm terribly happy! (casual)
非常に嬉しく存じます。
I am extremely delighted. (formal)