Japanese word

キラー

Pronunciation

Romajikirā

Meaning

  • nounkiller

Example

この投手は左打者キラーです。ko no tō shu wa hidari da sha ki rā de su

This pitcher is a killer against left-handed batters.

Illustration for キラー (killer)

More examples

この打者は左投手キラーとして知られています。ko no da sha wa hidari tō shu ki rā to shi te shi ra re te i ma su

This batter is known for hitting left-handed pitchers well.

Core concept

Refers to a person whose outstanding skill gives them a powerful advantage over rivals.

Common phrases

  • キラーコンテンツki rā ko n te n tsu

    killer content

Similar words

名手meishu: A person known for exceptional skill in a particular activity.
エースēsu: A top player who leads a team or excels in a sport.
達人tatsujin: A person who has mastered a skill through extensive experience and practice.

Definition in Japanese

特定の相手や分野で、決定的な強さを発揮して相手を打ち負かす人。toku tei no ai te ya bun ya de ket tei teki na tsuyo sa o hak ki shi te ai te o u chi ma ka su hito

Word origin

キラー (kirā) comes from English killer, which combines kill with the agent suffix -er; its Japanese figurative use applies the idea of defeating others to exceptional ability.

Usage tips

  • English speakers use killer as an informal positive adjective for something excellent, while the noun in this example highlights a person's unusually strong performance.

Word lists with this word