Synonym Nuance VS
How to say "Good" in Japanese
Both words can translate to "good", but which should you choose?
Japanese Option A
いい
いい (ii)
N5 / CEFR Syllabus
VS
Japanese Option B
朗報
ろうほう (rōhō)
N2 / CEFR Syllabus
Nuance Contrast & Translation Difference
When translating "good" into Japanese, you must choose carefully between いい and 朗報.
In Japanese, いい (いい (ii)) is typically associated with "good, nice; okay" (Syllabus Level: N5) and represents An い-adjective, a versatile word meaning 'good,' 'nice,' 'fine,' 'okay.' Often used to express approval or agreement. The more formal or classical form is よい.
On the other hand, 朗報 (ろうほう (rōhō)) maps to "Good news; glad tidings" (Syllabus Level: N2) and represents Used to express positive and often significant news. Can be a bit formal. 朗報を伝える. A literal translation of "good" can often sound unnatural to native Japanese speakers if mixed up!
Bilingual Context for "いい"
その考えはとてもいいです。/ 大丈夫、いいですよ。
That's a very good idea. / It's okay.
Bilingual Context for "朗報"
先生から合格の朗報を聞いて、とても嬉しかった。
I was very happy to hear the good news of my success from the teacher.
Nuance Mastery Quiz
Which Japanese word perfectly fits this blank space?
Fill in the blank: "その考えはとても ＿＿＿ です。/ 大丈夫、 ＿＿＿ ですよ。" (Meaning: "That's a very good idea. / It's okay.")
🎉 Correct Answer!
Remember: "いい" fits here because it means "good, nice; okay" in the context of: "That's a very good idea. / It's okay.". "朗報" represents "Good news; glad tidings".