Translation guide
This guide covers how to express the idea of achieving success in Japanese, from general accomplishment to specific goals.
Expressing that someone has achieved success in a broad sense, often in life, career, or a major endeavor.
A common and natural way to say 'achieve success'. It implies attaining success through effort.
He achieved success in business.
The most basic verb for 'to succeed'. Can be used in many contexts.
She finally succeeded.
Emphasizes accomplishing something significant, often after great effort. More literary or formal.
He achieved a great feat.
Focuses on reaching a goal or target. Often used with objectives, plans, or numerical targets.
I worked hard to achieve my goal.
Expressing the completion or attainment of a concrete objective, such as a target, dream, or plan.
The standard way to say 'achieve a goal'. Very common in business and personal contexts.
We achieved this month's sales target.
Literally 'make a dream come true'. The natural way to say 'achieve a dream'.
She achieved her dream of becoming a singer.
Means 'to fulfill a purpose' or 'achieve an aim'. Slightly formal.
He achieved his purpose and returned home.
Expressing success in a contest, examination, or selection process.
Specifically means 'to pass (an exam, screening, etc.)'. The most common word for exam success.
He passed the university entrance exam.
Means 'to win'. Use for competitions, games, or battles.
Means 'to win a championship' or 'take first place'. Used in sports and contests.
She won the national tournament.
Expressing that someone has become successful in terms of reputation, status, or public acclaim.
成功する (seikou suru) is a general term for succeeding, often used for overall success in life or a project. 達成する (tassei suru) is more specific to achieving a concrete goal or target. Use 達成する when you have a clear objective in mind.
He succeeded in life.
He achieved his quota.
While '成功を達成する' is grammatically possible, it is redundant and not natural. Use '成功を収める' or simply '成功する' instead.
She worked hard and achieved success.
He finally achieved his goal of running a marathon.
Our team won the match.
彼はその発明で名を上げた。
He made a name for himself with that invention.