崇高(すうこう)

すうこう
adjective-na, noun
sublime; noble; lofty
1. sublime; noble; lofty; exalted
Of the highest moral, intellectual, or spiritual value. Describes ideals, purposes, or experiences that inspire awe and reverence.
崇高(すうこう)な理想(りそう)を掲(かか)げる。
To uphold noble ideals.
自然(しぜん)の崇高(すうこう)な美(うつく)しさに心(こころ)を打(う)たれた。
I was struck by the sublime beauty of nature.
人命(じんめい)救助(きゅうじょ)という崇高(すうこう)な使命(しめい)を果(は)たすために働(はたら)いている。
They work to fulfill the noble mission of saving human lives.

崇高(すうこう) is a literary, elevated na-adjective describing things that inspire deep respect or awe — noble ideals, sublime beauty, or lofty purposes. Not used for everyday matters.

COMMON COLLOCATIONS:

  • 崇高(すうこう)な理想(りそう): lofty ideals
  • 崇高(すうこう)な精神(せいしん): noble spirit
  • 崇高(すうこう)な目的(もくてき): lofty purpose
  • 崇高(すうこう)な犠牲(ぎせい): noble sacrifice
  • 崇高(すうこう)な使命(しめい): noble mission

REGISTER:
This is a formal, literary word. It appears in speeches, essays, and serious writing. It would sound out of place in casual conversation.

RELATED:

  • 崇(あが)める: to revere, to worship (related verb)
  • 高貴(こうき): noble, distinguished (similar but for rank/birth)
  • 気高(けだか)い: noble, dignified (i-adjective with similar meaning)
general
Added 2026.3.19 21:19 · Revised 2026.3.29 16:30
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