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.
I can see Mt. Fuji.
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.
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.
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.
I see, so that's how it is. I understand now.
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.
I can understand his feelings.
Expressing that you can meet or see a person, often implying a scheduled meeting or opportunity.
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.
You can see valuable paintings at this museum.
この映画はネットで見られる。
You can watch this movie online.
I can see why he's angry.
このままでは失敗するのが見える。
I can see this ending in failure if it continues like this.
I can see the company president next week.