Dragon Ball Z: Best Goku Quotes from the Japanese Dub, Ranked

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If you’ve managed to watch Dragon Ball Z from beginning to end, then you’re well-versed in understanding how crucial dialogue plays out. It holds just as much significance as the physical blows exchanged and the triumphs secured by the heroes. In every fight, the stakes are palpable, with Saiyans, Z-Fighters, and other characters taking turns to express the importance of their victory, and the heavy consequences that could arise if they were to lose.

In the series, no character is given more opportunities to use their voice as extensively as Goku. Despite being the central figure in the narrative, it’s fortunate that his dialogues aren’t filled with empty chatter or repetitive cheers. Instead, Goku’s words carry weight and significance, and this compilation will feature ten of Goku’s most memorable speeches from the original Japanese dub, showcasing his unique charm and power.

10.
“And Then… This… Is Going Even Further Beyond Super Saiyan…!”

Dragon Ball Z, Episode 245, “Super Saiyan 3?!”

This is Super Saiyan 3! Sorry it took so much time. I’m still not used to this transformation.

When everyone believed that Majin Buu was beyond defeat due to his immense power, Goku unexpectedly reached new heights. While Super Saiyan 2 was considered the pinnacle at the time, the greatest Saiyan in history had a hidden technique. He named it Super Saiyan 3, and what made the transformation even more legendary was the powerful speech that accompanied it.

I can’t help but feel captivated as I watch him reveal each metamorphosis, accompanied by a smug expression, aware of the end goal. Intertwined with stunning depictions of every transformation and music resonating throughout the scene, this quote makes an ideal introduction to our list.

9.
“Becoming Super Saiyan Gets Its Start From Anger.”

Dragon Ball Z, Episode 156, “Bow To The Prince”

Let your temper flare up! Erupt in anger, like a loud explosion! I understand! It’s as if one of us – me, Piccolo, or even Krillin – is standing on the brink of death at the hands of Cell!

This version maintains the original’s emotional intensity while making it more easily understood and readable.

During the Android saga, particularly during the fight against Perfect Cell, Goku decided to coach Gohan. At that moment, Gohan hadn’t yet figured out how to transform into Super Saiyan. It’s worth noting that this was a crucial juncture in the tale of Dragon Ball Z, as Gohan eventually became the key factor in resolving the Android arc. We won’t delve into what transpired in the subsequent storyline.

To provoke Gohan, Goku mentions names like Piccolo and Krillin, suggesting his intense rage if either should perish. The Super Saiyan form draws its strength from fury, and nothing stirs up Goku and Gohan more than the thought of losing a comrade. Contrastingly, Vegeta and Trunks found their power in self-directed anger.

8.
“Maybe It Ain’t Fair To Chichi And Gohan, But You Don’t Need To Bring Me Back To Life.”

Dragon Ball Z, Episode 192, “Goku’s Decision”

Gohan is far more dependable than me, that much is clear. Now, off you go. Only after you’ve all passed away will we meet again. Goodbye for now!

At the end of the Android saga, once Gohan destroyed Perfect Cell, everyone collected the dragon balls to bring their friends back to life. Goku was among those on the list, but instead of wanting to return, he made a special request not to be revived. Initially, this surprised everyone, but Goku had a valid explanation for his unusual request.

Goku noted that when he’s alive, strong adversaries aren’t usually far off from testing him. If he were to pass away, this might halt such encounters; however, if not, Gohan had surpassed his strength. In true Goku style, he found humor in the situation by joking about meeting everyone again once they were gone, humorously addressing our shared mortality. Even in the most solemn instances, you can always expect a laugh from Goku.

7.
“K-Kuririn, Forgive Me, But Let Him Get Away.”

Dragon Ball Z, Episode 35, “Mercy”

As a gamer, let me express this in my own words: Man, that was one moment where I couldn’t help but think, “What a tragic loss.” If I could make a wish, it would be for his character to survive. But alas, it seemed like he was down for the count. Such a pity.

In the eyes of Dragon Ball Z fans, one notable weakness of Goku lies in his reluctance to fully defeat an opponent. Time and again, he spares adversaries such as Frieza and Perfect Cell, even when they seem beyond redemption. His change of heart before Krillin tried to kill Vegeta was a bit more understandable.

In a fierce clash, it was clear that Goku considered letting Vegeta perish a waste. Instead, he wished for Vegeta’s survival, recovery, and growth, so they could engage in battle again in the future. The ripple effects of this choice on the story are immeasurable, as Vegeta would rise to become one of the most powerful Saiyans ever, father a new generation, and craft one of anime’s most compelling redemption tales.

6.
“You Did Fine Up To This Point, Gohan.”

Dragon Ball Z, Episode 188, “A Hero’s Farewell”

Tell your mom that I’m sorry. I always selfishly did whatever I wanted. Goodbye, Gohan.

As a devoted fan, there’s nothing more heartwarming than the unique bond between fathers and sons, something that wasn’t fully delved into early on between Goku and Gohan. Mostly, Gohan was brought up by his mother and tutored by Piccolo, while Goku was either deceased or off training elsewhere. However, it was during the epic battle against Cell that this long-awaited father-son moment would finally unfold.

In a desperate move, Cell enlarged himself to trigger an explosion that would destroy the planet along with him. Seeing this, Goku stepped in at the last moment. With great emotion, he uttered one of the most poignant lines from Dragon Ball Z. He was ready to give up his life to save everyone, but before he could, he commended his son and asked for forgiveness, vanishing along with Cell who had become a ticking time bomb.

5.
“Having To Do As He Told You Must Have Been Worse Than Anything You Could Stand.”

Dragon Ball Z, Episode 86, “The End Of Vegeta”

Despite my intense dislike towards you, you’ve always held strong to your Saiyan spirit. Now, I find myself also feeling a sense of that same pride that you carry. As a Saiyan nurtured on Earth, I share in your pride as well.

This version aims to maintain the original’s tone while using more natural and easy-to-understand language.

In his dying moments, after receiving a devastating chest blast from Frieza, Vegeta shared the heart-wrenching details of his past with Goku. He revealed Frieza’s cruel nature and the actual reason behind Planet Vegeta’s destruction. The sorrowful tale that had been hidden in Vegeta’s past was now exposed, making it difficult to watch such a powerful and proud warrior break down into tears, struggling for breath.

Despite his lighthearted and humorous persona, this instance revealed an entirely different side of Goku. Burying Vegeta, he felt the sorrow of loss and empathized with the burden of pain that Vegeta had borne. This moment marked a Saiyan awakening within Goku, as he vowed to uphold their noble heritage, yet never forgetting his Earthly roots. For me, it was a powerful moment when Goku identified himself as a Saiyan for the first time.

4.
“Even A Left-Behind Might Be Able To Overcome An Elite, If He Tries Desperately Enough.”

Dragon Ball Z, Episode 30, “Goku vs. Vegeta”

And as a result of being a left-behind, I was sent to Earth here? I should be thankful.

During the confrontation between Vegeta and Goku I mentioned before, Vegeta, the ruler of all Saiyans, showed an air of superiority that was quite evident. Throughout their interaction, Vegeta repeatedly emphasized his lower-class status compared to Goku, while he himself boasted about being an Elite, the top-tier Saiyan. In his thoughts, Goku had no chance against him and was a mere laughing stock for someone as mighty as Vegeta.

The course of the fight shifted dramatically as Goku skillfully exploited Vegeta’s vulnerabilities, gaining multiple advantages throughout their duel. Confident in his abilities, Goku hinted that with enough effort, he could emerge victorious – a mindset that Goku has consistently held: perseverance, no matter the circumstance. I found it heartwarming when he expressed gratitude for being sent to Earth, acknowledging that this decision played a pivotal role in shaping him into the man he is today.

3.
“This Time, Get Reborn As A Good Guy!”

Dragon Ball Z, Episode 286, “Spirit Bomb Triumphant”

Let’s settle this between us, fair and square. I’m looking forward to our encounter and have been working hard to improve my skills. Catch you later!

Previously mentioned in this list was Goku’s habit of sparing his enemies during battles, even letting them go free at times. In the recent event, instead of annihilating Kid Buu with a Spirit Bomb, Goku surprisingly made a wish for him to be reborn as a good person. This wish eventually came true with the emergence of Uub.

In the final stages of Dragon Ball Z, Goku encountered Uub, who is actually Buu spelled backwards. True to form, Goku eventually found Uub and, as promised, embarked on a new journey with his disciple, concluding his character’s story fittingly. It’s no surprise that Goku, being the character he is, was either battling or training someone by the end of it all.

2.
“Enough Is Enough, You Scumbag!”

Dragon Ball Z, Episode 96, “Explosion Of Anger”

You’ve killed so many blameless people, one after the other… You even killed Krillin…!

The Saiyan species share a unique trait: when they transform into Super Saiyans, they become incredibly impressive. Once he activated his Super Saiyan mode, Goku took Frieza by surprise, overpowering him with strength and even deflecting attacks while pulverizing Frieza’s fist. This transformation wasn’t just about actions; it was also reflected in Goku’s initial words during the change.

In a stern tone, Goku labeled Frieza as a despicable individual, asserting that their confrontation had reached its limit and that Frieza would bear the consequences for harming his friends. Beyond making Frieza pay for the countless lives he’d taken, Goku specifically brought up Krillin – a detail that likely escaped Frieza’s notice. Before unleashing his assault on the Galactic Emperor, Goku ensured that Frieza was aware of the manner in which he had meted out death, thus serving as a poetic form of retribution.

1.
“As You Are Surely Well Aware… I Am The Saiyan Who Came From Earth To Defeat You.”

Dragon Ball Z, Episode 96, “Explosion Of Anger”

Belying my tranquil, peaceful nature, I’m actually the renowned battle-hardened warrior stirred by rage. I am none other than the powerful Super Saiyan, Son Goku!

English dub viewers might recall Goku’s speech being slightly altered, but for a specific purpose. The translation expanded his speech significantly, giving him a Superman-like demeanor, while in the original Japanese dub, Goku comes across as boastful and arrogant, delivering his message succinctly. The English dub version of “You didn’t say please” is actually a reworded line, as the original dialogue features Goku challenging Frieza to fire an attack at him instead.

The primary issue lies in Western adaptations, as they often over-contextualize dialogues that are kept minimal in their original Japanese versions. A less-is-more approach is beneficial, and adding too much to the English dub detracts from the impact of each line.

Goku’s speech following a powerful blow to his face, which visibly unsettled Frieza, stands out as one of Goku’s most impactful quotes in the Japanese dub. The intriguing aspect is that during their battles, there are numerous memorable lines to choose from.

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2025-05-28 23:10