Translation guide
Expresses the ability to obtain, receive, or achieve something. Japanese uses potential forms, verbs of receiving, or achievement patterns depending on what is being 'gotten'.
Expressing that you can acquire or get hold of a tangible item.
Potential form of 手に入れる (to obtain). Natural for acquiring things you want.
Can I get this book online?
Potential form of 買う (to buy). Use when 'get' means 'purchase'.
You can get it cheap at that store.
Potential form of もらう (to receive). Use when someone gives you something.
You can get it for free if you apply.
Expressing that you can obtain something intangible like information, permission, or help.
Potential form of 受ける (to receive). Common for services, education, medical care.
You can get specialized treatment at this hospital.
Potential form of 得る (to gain). Slightly formal, used for information, knowledge, results.
Also works for intangible things like permission or advice.
You can get advice from the teacher.
Expressing ability to arrive somewhere or achieve a condition.
Potential form of 行く (to go). Use for 'can get to a place'.
Can you get to the station on foot?
Potential form of 着く (to arrive). Emphasizes reaching the destination.
Potential form of なる (to become). For 'get' meaning 'become'.
If you work hard, you can get to be a pro.
Expressing ability to comprehend or perceive.
The verb わかる already means 'to understand', so potential is not needed. Use directly.
Can you get what he's saying?
More formal than わかる. 理解 (understanding) + できる (can do).
Expressing that circumstances allow you to do something.
English 'get' has many meanings. Do not try to translate it with a single Japanese verb. Identify the specific meaning (obtain, receive, become, understand, arrive) and use the appropriate Japanese expression.
手に入れる emphasizes acquisition through effort or chance. もらう is receiving from someone. 買う is purchasing. Choose based on how the item is obtained.
You can get the latest information on the internet.
What time can we get there by this train?
Can you get this concept?