How to say "first-rate" in Japanese

• 極上ごくじょうCommon
  no-adjective, na-adjectiveCovers the 'finest quality; the best' sense: it grades the quality of a thing itself, so it suits top-grade food, drink, or goods — often seen on labels and menus.
  彼かれは私に缶詰かんづめの極上ごくじょう品ひんを贈おくってくれた。↗

  He gave me a select brand of canned goods.
• 一流いちりゅうJLPT N2approx.Common
  no-adjectiveCovers the 'first-class; top-ranking' sense: being in the top tier of a field or profession. It fits people, companies, hotels, and the like — a first-rate firm, player, or restaurant.
  こんな一流いちりゅう選手せんしゅが相手あいてでは勝ち目かちめがない。↗

  We have no chance against those top players.
• 秀逸しゅういつCommon
  na-adjective, nounCovers the 'excellent; superb' side of 'first-rate': praising a work, idea, or performance as outstanding, as when commenting on someone's writing, plan, or answer.

All three can translate 'first-rate', but they grade different things: 極上 the finest quality of goods, 一流 top-rank standing in a field, and 秀逸 the excellence of a work or performance.

Usage comparisons are AI-assisted and cross-checked by multiple models; for study reference only

• 極上ごくじょうfirst-rate
• 一流いちりゅうfirst-class
• 秀逸しゅういつexcellent
• 第１級だいいっきゅうfirst-class
• そうそうeminent
• 超一流ちょういちりゅうabsolute best