How to say "worthy" in Japanese

Choosing the right word

ふさわしいJLPT N1approx.Common
i-adjectiveCovers 'worthy of' in the sense of being fitting or appropriate for something, such as an occasion, a position, or a reward. Think 'a worthy opponent' or 'worthy of the name' — the idea is suitability rather than praise.
君きみにふさわしいはずはないのだから。↗
He couldn't be good for you.
立派りっぱJLPT N5approx.Common
na-adjectiveCovers 'worthy' meaning praiseworthy or creditable — admirable in itself. It describes someone or something impressive or honorable, so for 'a worthy person' in the sense of someone of admirable character, this is the word you want.

Use 「ふさわしい」 for 'worthy of' in the sense of matching or being suitable for something, and 立派 for 'worthy' as praiseworthy or admirable in itself.

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

Japanese equivalents

JLPT vocabulary levels are community estimates, not official (no official lists have been published since the 2010 revision).

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