～にかけては

• Reading: にかけては
• Romaji: ni kakete wa
• Formation: Noun + にかけては + Expression of excellence

Meaning

A compound particle that marks something in which someone excels or has confidence. It means 'when it comes to' and implies superiority or special ability in that area.

にかけては highlights a specific field or skill where someone (or something) is particularly outstanding. It carries a strong positive connotation of excellence, pride, or unmatched ability. The phrase is often followed by expressions of superiority such as 誰にも負けない (second to none), 右に出る者はいない (no one can surpass), or 一番だ (the best). While it is usually complimentary, it can sometimes be used with a slightly ironic or self-deprecating tone. This pattern differs from に関しては, which simply means 'regarding' without the connotation of excellence. It is used in both spoken and written Japanese, from casual boasting to formal introductions.

Examples

1. 料理にかけては彼女の右に出る者はいない。 When it comes to cooking, no one can surpass her.
2. 交渉力にかけては彼は社内で誰にも負けない。 When it comes to negotiation skills, he is second to none in the company.
3. データ分析にかけてはこのチームが最も優秀だ。 When it comes to data analysis, this team is the most outstanding.

Usage Guide

Context: spoken, written, everyday

Tone: complimentary

Do Say

• 記憶力にかけては彼に敵う人はいない。
• スピードにかけてはこの選手がチーム一だ。
• 日本語の敬語にかけては先輩のほうがはるかに詳しい。

Don't Say

• 料理に関しては彼女の右に出る者はいない。(Using に関しては loses the connotation of exceptional ability that にかけては conveys) → 料理にかけては彼女の右に出る者はいない。
• 失敗にかけては彼は誰にも負けない。(Using にかけては with a clearly negative attribute sounds unintentionally comical or sarcastic) → 失敗の多さでは彼は誰にも負けない。

Origin & History

Compound of にかけて (te-form of にかける, to stake/bet on) and は (topic marker). Literally 'when one stakes it on,' implying the area where one puts their pride or reputation.

Cultural Context

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal