Translation guide
Describes someone with a lot of money, property, or resources. In Japanese, the most common and neutral term is 裕福 (ゆうふく), but other words carry different nuances, from formal to casual, and some are used mainly in writing.
To describe a person, family, or country that is financially rich in a neutral or positive sense.
The most standard and neutral word for 'wealthy'. Used for people, families, and sometimes countries. Suitable for both spoken and written contexts.
彼は裕福な家庭に生まれた。
He was born into a wealthy family.
裕福な国は援助すべきだ。
Wealthy countries should provide aid.
A common, slightly casual term literally meaning 'money holder'. Often used in conversation. Can sound a bit direct or materialistic.
あの人はお金持ちだ。
That person is wealthy.
お金持ちになりたい。
I want to become wealthy.
A more formal term, often used in written language or compound words like 富裕層 (wealthy class). Less common in casual speech.
富裕層向けのサービス
services for the wealthy
Loanword from English 'rich'. Used in casual, trendy contexts, often to describe a lifestyle or appearance rather than pure financial status.
リッチな気分を味わう。
Enjoy a wealthy feeling.
To describe a situation, lifestyle, or person that is rich in a non-monetary or holistic way, such as having abundant nature, time, or culture.
Means 'rich' or 'abundant' in a broad sense. Can refer to wealth, but also to nature, culture, or heart. Often used in phrases like 豊かな生活 (affluent life).
彼らは豊かな生活を送っている。
They lead a wealthy life.
この国は自然が豊かだ。
This country is rich in nature.
Can also be used in this broader sense, but more strongly tied to financial wealth.
To emphasize great wealth, often with a nuance of luxury or power.
裕福 is the safest, most neutral term for financial wealth. お金持ち is more colloquial and direct. 豊か has a broader meaning of richness beyond money, and is often used in idealistic or descriptive contexts.
The English word 'wealthy' is not commonly used as a loanword in Japanese. Using ウェルシー would sound unnatural. Stick to the Japanese terms above.
裕福な暮らし
a wealthy lifestyle
Literally 'billionaire' (in yen). Used for someone with assets in the hundreds of millions or billions.
彼は若くして億万長者になった。
He became a billionaire at a young age.
The wealthy man built a museum.