Translation guide
The English verb 'attach' covers a wide range of meanings, from physically fastening objects to including files in emails. This guide organizes the most common uses for learners, with natural Japanese equivalents for each context.
To connect one object to another using a fastener, clip, string, etc.
General verb for attaching one thing to another. Often used with a particle like に to indicate the target.
書類にクリップを付けてください。
Please attach a clip to the documents.
To attach or install something firmly, often equipment or fixtures.
Casual verb for sticking or attaching things together, often with adhesive or by pressing.
To add a document, image, etc. to an electronic message.
Standard verb for attaching files to emails. Used in both formal and casual contexts.
メールに履歴書を添付しました。
I attached my resume to the email.
To consider something as having a particular quality, like value or significance.
To attach importance to something. More natural than a literal translation of 'attach importance'.
彼は時間を守ることを重要視している。
He attaches importance to punctuality.
To develop a feeling of affection or connection to someone or something.
To grow fond of; to become attached. Describes the natural development of affection.
長く使っていると、物に愛着が湧きます。
When you use something for a long time, you become attached to it.
To belong to or be affiliated with a larger entity.
To be attached to or belong to an organization, department, etc.
彼は営業部に所属しています。
He is attached to the sales department.
To add a condition, restriction, or stipulation to an offer or agreement.
To attach conditions. Very common in business and legal contexts.
契約にいくつか条件を付けました。
We attached several conditions to the contract.
English 'attached to' in emotional contexts is not directly translated as 付ける. Use phrases like 愛着が湧く or 情が移る instead.
彼女はその猫に愛着が湧いた。
She became attached to the cat.
付ける is general 'attach', while 取り付ける implies a more permanent or mechanical installation, like attaching a shelf or a device.
壁に棚を取り付けました。
I attached a shelf to the wall.
写真をノートにくっ付けた。
I attached the photo to my notebook.
Casual way to say 'attach a file'. Common in spoken Japanese.
そのファイルを付けて送って。
Attach that file and send it.
To attach meaning to something, often in a creative or interpretive sense.
彼女はその絵に特別な意味を持たせた。
She attached a special meaning to the painting.
To become emotionally attached, often despite initial reluctance. Used for people, animals, or things.
飼っているうちに犬に情が移った。
I became attached to the dog while taking care of it.
To be attached as an auxiliary or subsidiary part, like a school attached to a university.
この病院は大学に付属しています。
This hospital is attached to the university.