Translation guide
This English phrase has two main uses: (1) being equal to someone in ability or strength, often in competition or fighting; (2) being well-suited or compatible with someone or something, especially in relationships or pairings. Japanese expresses these ideas with different words and patterns.
Express that someone or something is as good, strong, or capable as another, often in a contest or confrontation.
A formal and common way to say 'is a match for' in terms of ability, power, or quality. Used for both people and things.
His skill is a match for a professional's.
This new product has performance that is a match for our rival's product.
Often used in negative form to mean 'cannot match' or 'is no match for'. In affirmative, it's less common but still means 'to be equal to'.
No one is a match for him.
In English, there is no one who is a match for him.
Means 'to be evenly matched' or 'on equal footing'. Often used in sports or games.
The two teams were a match for each other.
He and I are evenly matched in chess.
Literally 'does not take a back seat to', meaning 'is not inferior to' or 'is a match for'. Often used in comparisons of quality.
This car's ride comfort is a match for luxury cars.
Express that two people or things go well together, are a good fit, or are compatible.
The most natural way to say people or things are a good match in terms of compatibility. Used for romantic partners, friends, or even objects like food and drink.
I think he and I are a good match.
This wine is a good match for cheese.
Means 'is perfect for' or 'is exactly right for'. Emphasizes a perfect fit rather than just compatibility.
This job is a perfect match for him.
Often used for couples, meaning they look good together or are well-matched. Can sound a bit old-fashioned or formal.
Those two are a good match, aren't they?
匹敵する is more formal and objective, often used in written comparisons of ability or quality. 敵う is more common in negative sentences and can be used in casual speech. 敵う in affirmative is rare and sounds literary.
His talent rivals that of a genius.
I'm no match for him.
Do not translate 'be a match for' literally as マッチである or similar. It will not be understood. Use the phrases above depending on the intended meaning.
そのドレスは彼女にぴったりだった。
That dress was a perfect match for her.