If you’ve been studying Japanese for a while, you’ve probably learned the word とても (totemo), one of the most common way to say “very.” But as you listen to real Japanese conversations, you might notice that people often use other words instead, such as: すごく (sugoku), めっちゃ (meccha), or 超 (chou).
In Japanese there are several ways to say “very,” each carrying different nuances, levels of formality, and emotional tone. Understanding when and how to use them can help make your Japanese sound more natural and expressive.
- とても (Totemo) — The Standard and Polite “Very”
とても is the most standard and widely used way to say “very.” It works in both spoken and written Japanese and is appropriate in all situations, from casual conversations to business meetings.
Examples:
- この映画はとても面白いです。(Kono eiga wa totemo omoshiroi desu.) — This movie is very interesting.
- とても親切な人ですね。(Totemo shinsetsu na hito desu ne.) — You’re a very kind person.
Use とても when you want to sound polite, neutral, or when speaking in formal contexts such as schools, offices, or with people you don’t know well.
- すごく (Sugoku) — “Very” with a Natural and Conversational Tone
すごく originally comes from すごい (sugoi), meaning “amazing” or “great.” Over time, it’s come to mean “very” in everyday conversation. It’s more casual than とても and is used often by people of all ages.
Examples:
- このラーメン、すごくおいしい！(Kono rāmen, sugoku oishii!) — This ramen is really good!
- 今日はすごく寒いね。(Kyō wa sugoku samui ne.) — It’s really cold today.
すごく adds excitement and naturalness to your speech, making it perfect for everyday situations with friends or coworkers.
- めっちゃ (Meccha) — The Kansai-Style “Super”
めっちゃ is a casual slang term that originally came from the Kansai region (Osaka, Kyoto, Kobe). It is now used widely across Japan, especially among younger speakers. It carries the same meaning as “super” or “really.”
Examples:
- このケーキ、めっちゃ甘い！(Kono kēki, meccha amai!) — This cake is super sweet!
- めっちゃ疲れた。(Meccha tsukareta.) — I’m really tired.
Use めっちゃ with friends or in informal settings. It’s fun, expressive, and adds a regional flair to your Japanese.
- 超 (Chou) — “Ultra” or “Super”
超 (chou) literally means “super” or “ultra,” and it’s commonly used in both slang and pop culture contexts. Like めっちゃ, it’s informal, but it’s slightly trendier or cooler sounding, the kind of word you might see in advertisements or hear from younger speakers.
Examples:
- 超かわいい！(Chou kawaii!) — Super cute!
- その映画、超よかったよ。(Sono eiga, chou yokatta yo.) — That movie was really good.
超 is a go-to choice if you want your Japanese to sound expressive and modern, especially in social situations or on social media.
- 非常に (Hijou ni) — The Formal “Very”
If you’re writing a report, giving a presentation, or speaking in a professional setting, 非常に (hijou ni) is the best choice. It’s formal, written, and often used in business or academic contexts.
Examples:
- このプロジェクトは非常に重要です。(Kono purojekuto wa hijou ni juuyou desu.) — This project is very important.
- 彼のプレゼンは非常にわかりやすかったです。(Kare no purezen wa hijou ni wakariyasukatta desu.) — His presentation was very easy to understand.
Use 非常に when you want to sound professional and polished.
Practice Makes Perfect
As you can see, Japanese has many ways to express the simple idea of “very.” Each with its own tone and level of formality. Learning how and when to use each one will help your Japanese sound more authentic and adaptable to any situation.
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