Translation guide
The English word "assets" can refer to financial resources, valuable qualities, or property. This guide covers how to express these meanings naturally in Japanese.
To refer to financial resources, total wealth, or property that can be converted to cash.
The most common and general term for assets in a financial or accounting context. Can refer to both personal and corporate assets.
He has a lot of assets.
The company's total assets increased.
Refers to property or wealth, often with a nuance of personal or family possessions. Can be used in legal contexts (e.g., inheritance).
He lost all his assets.
Specifically financial assets like stocks, bonds, and cash. Used in economics and finance.
Managing financial assets is important.
To describe a person, skill, or characteristic that is valuable or beneficial.
Means 'strength' or 'strong point'. Commonly used to describe a person's valuable skills or a company's competitive advantage.
His language skills are an asset to the company.
Means 'merit' or 'good point'. Often used for personal qualities, but can be slightly more formal than 強み.
Literally 'valuable human resource'. Used in business contexts to refer to a person who is a great asset to the organization.
To refer to tangible property, especially in legal or formal contexts.
Also covers physical property when used in contexts like 'fixed assets' (固定資産).
The company recorded the new equipment as an asset.
Often implies personal belongings or real estate. Can be used in everyday speech about one's possessions.
Means 'possessions' or 'belongings'. More general and less financial than 資産 or 財産.
資産 is the standard accounting/finance term for assets, often used in business contexts. 財産 has a broader sense of property/wealth and is common in legal and personal contexts (e.g., inheritance). For 'personal assets', 財産 may sound more natural, while 資産 is preferred for balance sheets.
Do not directly translate 'He is an asset' as 彼は資産だ. This sounds unnatural. Use 強み, 貴重な人材, or rephrase to describe the value they bring.
The company's assets exceed its liabilities.
Her experience is a great asset to the team.
Teamwork is our asset.
彼女の長所は忍耐力だ。
Her patience is an asset.
He is a valuable asset to our company.
この家は私の財産です。
This house is my asset.
All his assets were sold off.