最高
saikō[sa̠iko̞ː]
The English phrase 'this is great' is expressed in Japanese as 最高 (saikō).
最高 is used to describe something as excellent, the best possible or superlative. While it can be used generally to say 'this is great', it is often used to describe an experience, a feeling or a specific thing that is superlative.
Is there a formal and an informal way to say it?
You can use 最高 alone as an informal way to express excitement or approval among friends. To make the expression polite and suitable for most social situations, add です to the end to form 最高です.
How do you pronounce it?
saikō
Did you know?
- While English speakers use 'great' for many things, using 最高 for a person's character can sometimes sound as if you are rating them like a product rather than complimenting their soul.
- There is a related term 最悪 which uses the same 'most' prefix but the character for 'bad', creating a perfect linguistic opposite meaning 'the worst'.
- In formal Japanese settings, even if something is truly excellent, using 最高 might be considered too subjective or enthusiastic, and a more understated word is often preferred.
Examples in context
- これは素晴らしいプレゼンテーションです。This is a fantastic presentation.
- みんな、これはすごいね！Everyone, this is amazing!
- この景色は最高です。Kono keshiki wa saiko desu.This view is great.
- 今日の天気は最高だね。Kyo no tenki wa saiko da ne.Today's weather is the best.
- このラーメン、最高に美味しい！Kono ramen, saiko ni oishii!This ramen is incredibly delicious!
Example conversation
Two friends are enjoying a meal at a cafe.
- 陽葵 Himariこのケーキ、最高だよ！Kono keki, saiko da yo!This cake is great!
- 大翔 Hiroto本当だ、すごく美味しいね。Honto da, sugoku oishii ne.You're right, it's really delicious.
- 陽葵 Himari大翔君も気に入った？Hiroto-kun mo kiniitta?Do you like it too, Hiroto?
- 大翔 Hirotoうん、最高に幸せだよ。Un, saiko ni shiawase da yo.Yeah, I'm incredibly happy.
Sources
- Pronunciation: Wiktionary entry 最高, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
