How to say "genius" in Japanese
Choosing the right word
- 天才てんさいnounThe all-purpose word for 'genius': a person of extraordinary natural ability, or the gift itself. Use it whenever you would simply call someone a genius in English.
- 英才えいさいnounPresents 'genius' as unusual, outstanding talent: an exceptionally able, brilliant person. Suits contexts that stress brilliance and unusual ability, such as praising a remarkably gifted individual.
- 英俊えいしゅんnounReally describes a person who combines exceptional talent with a strikingly handsome appearance, so it is seldom the word you want when you simply mean 'genius'.
- 鬼才きさいnounA genius of an unconventional, almost uncanny kind: remarkable talent that defies ordinary categories. Typical of praise for maverick creators whose work is startlingly original.
- 俊英しゅんえいnounAn outstanding, first-rate talent — one of the best and brightest in a field. Used to single out high achievers, as in profiles of leading figures in a profession.
Use 天才 for a genius in the ordinary sense; 英才 highlights unusual brilliance, 俊英 the best and brightest in a field, 鬼才 unconventional genius, while 英俊 adds striking looks and is seldom the right choice.
Usage comparisons are AI-assisted and cross-checked by multiple models; for study reference only
Japanese equivalents
See also
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