Translation guide
Expressing the ability to see something, either physically with your eyes or metaphorically as understanding or perceiving.
Expressing that you can see something with your eyes, or that something is visible.
The most natural and common way to say 'can see' or 'is visible'. It is an intransitive verb that means something is visible to the speaker, without focusing on the act of looking.
富士山が見える。
I can see Mt. Fuji.
ここから海が見えますか？
Can you see the ocean from here?
Literally 'can do the act of seeing'. Used when emphasizing the ability or opportunity to see, often in more formal or written contexts. It can also imply permission or circumstances allow seeing.
この美術館では貴重な絵を見ることができる。
You can see valuable paintings at this museum.
Potential form of 見る (to see). Less common for simple visibility; often used for 'can watch' or when something is available to be seen (e.g., a movie). Can sound slightly awkward for spontaneous visibility.
この映画はネットで見られる。
You can watch this movie online.
Expressing that you can see (understand, realize, perceive) a fact, reason, or situation.
The most common way to say 'I can see (that...)' meaning 'I understand' or 'I realize'. It is an intransitive verb.
なるほど、そういうことか。よくわかった。
I see, so that's how it is. I understand now.
彼が怒っている理由がわかる。
I can see why he's angry.
Can also be used metaphorically to mean 'I can see (a situation/outcome)', often with a sense of foresight or perception.
Literally 'can understand'. More formal and explicit than わかる. Suitable for written or formal speech.
彼の気持ちは理解できる。
I can understand his feelings.
Expressing that you can meet or see a person, often implying a scheduled meeting or opportunity.
Potential form of 会う (to meet). The most natural way to say 'can see (meet) someone'.
明日、友達に会える。
I can see my friend tomorrow.
いつ彼に会えますか？
When can I see him?
More formal or written version of 会える. Emphasizes the ability or opportunity to meet.
来週、社長に会うことができます。
I can see the company president next week.
見える is the default for 'can see' in the sense of visibility. 見られる is the potential form of 見る but is less common for simple visibility; it often implies 'can watch' or 'is available for viewing'. 見ることができる is more formal and emphasizes the ability or opportunity to see. For 'I can see Mt. Fuji', 見える is most natural. For 'You can see a movie at the theater', 見られる or 見ることができる are better.
Saying 富士山が見られる to mean 'I can see Mt. Fuji' sounds unnatural. Use 見える instead. 見られる is better for deliberate viewing or availability.
I can see this ending in failure if it continues like this.