Translation guide
The English word "accepted" can be expressed in Japanese through various verbs and adjectives depending on whether you mean social acceptance, approval of an idea, admission to a group, or formal acknowledgment. This guide covers the most natural ways to convey these nuances.
To say that something is widely recognized, approved, or considered normal in society or a community.
The passive/state form of 認める (to acknowledge/approve). It means 'is recognized/accepted' and is the most common way to express general acceptance.
His opinion is widely accepted.
This custom is accepted in society.
From 受け入れる (to accept/receive). Emphasizes that something has been welcomed or embraced by a group.
The new way of thinking is gradually being accepted.
Literally 'generally accepted'. A clear phrase when you want to emphasize widespread acceptance.
The theory is generally accepted.
To say that someone has been admitted or allowed to join.
Means 'passed (an exam)' or 'was accepted' when referring to schools or qualifying tests. Use this for academic or examination-based acceptance.
He was accepted to the University of Tokyo.
Literally 'admission was approved'. Used for being accepted into a club, society, or organization.
Means 'was hired' or 'was selected'. Use this for job offers or being accepted for a position.
He was accepted by the company (hired).
To say that someone agreed to take something offered.
The past tense of 受け入れる. Means 'accepted' in the sense of taking an offer, condition, or situation.
He accepted the offer.
She accepted reality.
A more formal word for 'consented' or 'accepted'. Often used in business or official contexts.
He accepted the terms.
Means 'undertook' or 'took on'. Used when accepting a task, responsibility, or request.
He accepted the job (task).
To say that someone admits or recognizes something as true.
認める (mitomeru) focuses on acknowledgment or approval of a fact, status, or value. 受け入れる (ukeireru) emphasizes physically or emotionally taking something in, often with a nuance of welcoming or accommodating. For general social acceptance, 認められている is more common; for accepting an offer or a person into a group, 受け入れる is often better.
Avoid directly translating 'accepted' as アクセプトされた (akuseputo sareta) in most contexts. While loanwords are sometimes used in technical fields (e.g., 'accepted manuscript'), in everyday Japanese it sounds unnatural. Use the verbs above instead.
She was accepted into the club.
She accepted the criticism sincerely.