Translation guide
Expressing the ability to accept something, whether it's a physical object, an idea, a situation, or a person. Japanese uses different verbs and constructions depending on what is being accepted and the nuance of willingness or capacity.
To express that one can agree to or receive a suggestion, plan, or requirement.
A straightforward way to say 'can accept' using the potential form of 受け入れる (to accept). Suitable for both concrete and abstract things.
その提案を受け入れることができます。
I can accept that proposal.
The potential form of 受け入れる, more concise than ことができる. Common in casual and spoken Japanese.
その条件は受け入れられない。
I can't accept those conditions.
Literally 'can consent/agree'. More formal and often used in business or official contexts when accepting terms or requests.
ご依頼の内容を承諾できます。
We can accept the contents of your request.
Means 'can acknowledge/accept', often used when accepting a situation or someone's explanation. Slightly formal.
その事情は了承できます。
I can accept those circumstances.
To express tolerance or willingness to include someone, or to put up with someone's actions.
Used for accepting a person into a group or accepting someone's personality/behavior. The potential form implies ability or willingness.
彼の性格を受け入れられる。
I can accept his personality.
Means 'can tolerate/permit'. Often used for behavior or mistakes that one can overlook or allow.
その程度のミスなら許容できます。
I can accept a mistake of that degree.
Literally 'can look with big eyes', meaning to overlook or be lenient. Used when you can accept something by not being strict.
今回だけは大目に見られるよ。
I can let it slide just this once.
To express that one can receive or take something offered.
Potential form of 受け取る (to receive). Used for physically accepting an item, like a gift or delivery.
荷物は明日受け取れますか？
Can I accept the package tomorrow?
Potential form of もらう (to receive). Very common in casual speech when asking if you can have something.
これ、もらえる？
Can I accept this? (Can I have this?)
Humble potential form of もらう. Used when politely asking if you can receive something from a superior or in formal situations.
To express that one can come to terms with or endure a difficult fact.
Potential form of 受け止める (to accept/catch/come to terms with). Often used for emotionally accepting a harsh reality or criticism.
その事実を受け止められない。
I can't accept that fact.
Means 'can be pragmatic about' or 'can accept by drawing a line'. Used when you can accept something by separating emotions or by being rational.
仕事だと割り切れる。
I can accept it as just work.
Literally 'resignation attaches', meaning to be able to give up or accept the inevitable. Used when you can accept a loss or failure.
もう諦めがついた。
I've come to accept it. (I've given up.)
受け入れる is more about accepting something into your sphere (ideas, people, conditions), while 受け止める is about catching and holding something, often used for emotionally accepting a fact or criticism. 受け入れる is broader and more common for general acceptance.
新しい文化を受け入れる。
Accept a new culture.
批判を受け止める。
Accept criticism (take it to heart).
Avoid directly translating 'can accept' as アクセプトできる (using the English loanword). While sometimes used in IT contexts, it sounds unnatural in most situations. Use the Japanese verbs above.
お名刺をいただけますか？
May I accept your business card?