Japanese word

傑作

Pronunciation

Romajikessaku

Meaning

  • nounmasterpiece

Example

この映画は傑作です。ko no ei ga wa kes saku de su

This movie is a masterpiece.

Illustration for 傑作 (masterpiece)

More examples

この作品は、発表から長い年月がたっても傑作として読み継がれています。ko no saku hin wa hap pyō ka ra naga i toshi tsuki ga ta tte mo kes saku to shi te yo mi tsu ga re te i ma su

This work has continued to be read as a masterpiece long after its release.

Core concept

Describes a work recognized as exceptionally accomplished and worthy of lasting praise.

Common phrases

  • 最高の傑作sai kō no kes saku

    the greatest masterpiece

  • 映画の傑作ei ga no kes saku

    a masterpiece of cinema

  • 傑作を生むkes saku o u mu

    produce a masterpiece

Similar words

名作meisaku: A work that has earned broad recognition and lasting appreciation.
秀作shūsaku: A highly accomplished work that displays strong skill.

Definition in Japanese

特にすぐれた出来ばえの作品。toku ni su gu re ta de ki ba e no saku hin

Word origin

傑作 (kessaku) is a Sino-Japanese compound of 傑 (ketsu, "outstanding") and 作 (saku, "work"), giving the sense of an outstanding work.

Usage tips

  • English masterpiece often suggests lasting artistic importance, while Japanese 傑作 (kessaku) can describe any especially excellent piece of work, including a comic creation.

Other meanings

  • fine piece of worknoun

Opposites

Word lists with this word