Translation guide
Describes a person or behavior that is morally good, righteous, or upright. Japanese expressions vary by nuance: general moral goodness, traditional Confucian virtue, purity, or admirable character.
General term for someone who is virtuous, upright, or righteous in a broad moral sense.
Literally 'high in virtue.' A common, natural way to describe a virtuous person. Often used in formal or written contexts.
彼は徳の高い人物だ。
He is a virtuous person.
Means 'noble' or 'high-minded.' Emphasizes moral integrity and purity. Slightly formal and literary.
高潔な生き方を目指している。
I aim to live a virtuous life.
Literally 'possessing virtue.' A formal, somewhat archaic term. Rare in everyday speech.
有徳の士を尊敬する。
I respect a virtuous person.
Refers to virtue in the context of Confucian ethics, such as filial piety, loyalty, or benevolence.
The core Confucian concept of virtue. Can stand alone or combine with other characters. Often used in compound words.
徳を積むことが大切だ。
It is important to accumulate virtue.
Specifically the virtue of benevolence or humaneness, a key Confucian virtue.
Describes a person, especially a woman, who is virtuous in the sense of being chaste, pure, or morally untainted.
Means 'chaste' or 'faithful,' typically used for women. Implies moral virtue in relationships.
彼女は貞淑な妻だ。
She is a virtuous wife.
Means 'pure' or 'clean.' Can describe a virtuous, innocent character, not limited to women.
清らかな心の持ち主だ。
He/She has a virtuous (pure) heart.
Describes an action or person that is morally admirable, often in a more everyday sense.
Means 'admirable,' 'splendid,' or 'fine.' Commonly used to praise someone's character or actions as virtuous.
立派な行いですね。
That's a virtuous deed.
A common phrase meaning 'admirable person.' Often used to describe someone of good moral standing.
彼は本当に立派な人だ。
He is a truly virtuous person.
English 'virtuous' covers a wide range of moral goodness. In Japanese, the best word depends heavily on context. Using 徳の高い for a chaste woman may sound odd; 貞淑な is more natural. When in doubt, 立派な is a safe, common choice for praising character.
仁徳のある君主だった。
He was a virtuous ruler (with benevolence).