Synonym Nuance VS
How to say "Ecstasy" in Japanese
Both words can translate to "ecstasy", but which should you choose?
Japanese Option A
恍惚
こうこつ (kōkotsu)
N2 / CEFR Syllabus
VS
Japanese Option B
有頂天
うちょうてん (uchouten)
N1 / CEFR Syllabus
Nuance Contrast & Translation Difference
When translating "ecstasy" into Japanese, you must choose carefully between 恍惚 and 有頂天.
In Japanese, 恍惚 (こうこつ (kōkotsu)) is typically associated with "ecstasy, rapture, trance, enchantment" (Syllabus Level: N2) and represents 心が奪われ、うっとりとして我を忘れるほどの状態を指します。極度の喜びや集中を表す際に用いられます。.
On the other hand, 有頂天 (うちょうてん (uchouten)) maps to "ecstasy, rapture, being in seventh heaven, being overjoyed" (Syllabus Level: N1) and represents Describes a state of extreme joy or elation, often to the point of being oblivious to one's surroundings or potential dangers. Can sometimes have a slightly negative connotation if it leads to carelessness. 喜びのあまり我を忘れるほどの状態。. A literal translation of "ecstasy" can often sound unnatural to native Japanese speakers if mixed up!
Bilingual Context for "恍惚"
彼女は美しい音楽を聴きながら恍惚とした表情を浮かべた。
She had an enraptured expression while listening to the beautiful music.
Bilingual Context for "有頂天"
彼女は合格の知らせを聞いて、有頂天になった。
Hearing the news of her success, she was in seventh heaven.
Nuance Mastery Quiz
Which Japanese word perfectly fits this blank space?
Fill in the blank: "彼女は美しい音楽を聴きながら ＿＿＿ とした表情を浮かべた。" (Meaning: "She had an enraptured expression while listening to the beautiful music.")
🎉 Correct Answer!
Remember: "恍惚" fits here because it means "ecstasy, rapture, trance, enchantment" in the context of: "She had an enraptured expression while listening to the beautiful music.". "有頂天" represents "ecstasy, rapture, being in seventh heaven, being overjoyed".