Translation guide
Expresses knowing about something, being conscious of it, or realizing it. Japanese uses different words depending on whether you are aware of a fact, a sensory input, a danger, or a social issue.
To know that something exists or is true, often based on information.
The most common way to say you are aware of a fact. It implies you have knowledge about something.
彼が来ることは知っていますか。
Are you aware that he is coming?
I am aware of that problem.
Formal way to say you are aware of something, often used in business settings. Implies acknowledgment.
その件は承知しております。
I am aware of that matter. (formal)
Means you recognize or are cognizant of something, often used for abstract concepts or problems.
我々はリスクを認識している。
We are aware of the risks.
To notice or perceive something using sight, hearing, etc.
To become aware of something, to notice. Often used for sudden realizations or noticing something in the environment.
彼が部屋に入ったことに気づかなかった。
I wasn't aware that he had entered the room.
異変に気づいたら教えてください。
Please let me know if you become aware of anything unusual.
Similar to 気づく, but slightly more colloquial. Also means to notice or become aware.
忘れ物に気がついた。
I became aware that I had left something behind.
To be alert or mindful of potential risks.
To be careful, to pay attention to something, often used for warnings.
車に注意してください。
Please be aware of the cars.
詐欺に注意しなければならない。
We must be aware of scams.
To be on guard, to be vigilant against something specific.
不審者に警戒してください。
Be aware of suspicious persons.
To be socially conscious or mindful of broader issues.
To be conscious of something, often used for social awareness or self-awareness.
環境問題を意識していますか。
Are you aware of environmental issues?
彼は自分の弱点を意識していない。
He is not aware of his own weaknesses.
To be self-aware, to realize one's own situation or responsibility.
自分の責任を自覚しなさい。
Be aware of your own responsibility.
Telling someone to be mindful or to keep something in mind.
Common phrase meaning 'be careful' or 'take care'. Used in many situations.
足元に気をつけて。
Be aware of your step.
Polite way to say 'please be aware/careful'. Often seen on signs.
盗難にご注意ください。
Please be aware of theft.
知っている is for factual knowledge. 気づく is for noticing something in the moment. 意識する is for being conscious of abstract concepts or social issues.
彼の住所を知っていますか。
Are you aware of his address? (factual knowledge)
彼が泣いているのに気づいた。
I became aware that he was crying. (sensory notice)
健康を意識しています。
I am health-conscious. (abstract awareness)
Directly translating 'be aware' as 意識している or 注意している can sound unnatural if the context is simple factual knowledge. Use 知っている for knowing facts.