Translation guide
This entry covers how to express that something is understood or grasped in Japanese. It focuses on natural ways to say that a concept, idea, or message is comprehended, rather than direct translations of the passive phrase 'be comprehended'.
Expressing that something is understood or makes sense.
The most direct equivalent, meaning 'is understood'. It is neutral and can be used in both spoken and written contexts.
彼の説明は簡単に理解された。
His explanation was easily comprehended.
Expressing that something is included or covered within a scope or category.
The English phrase 'be comprehended' is often better expressed with intransitive verbs like わかる or 通じる, rather than a direct passive form. Using 理解される is grammatically correct but can sound stiff in casual conversation.
Remember that わかる is intransitive, so the thing understood takes が, not を. For example, 日本語がわかる (I understand Japanese), not 日本語をわかる.
The most common and natural way to say 'is understood' in everyday Japanese. It is an intransitive verb, so the thing understood is marked with が.
その問題がやっとわかった。
The problem was finally comprehended.
Means 'is grasped' or 'is comprehended', often used for understanding situations or details. Slightly more formal than わかる.
状況が完全に把握された。
The situation was fully comprehended.
Often used for communication being understood, like a message or joke getting across. Intransitive.
私の言いたいことが相手に通じた。
What I wanted to say was comprehended by the other person.
Means 'is included' or 'is comprehended' in the sense of being part of a whole. Common in definitions and lists.
この用語には多くの意味が含まれている。
Many meanings are comprehended in this term.
A formal term meaning 'is encompassed' or 'is comprehended'. Used in technical or academic contexts.
これらの要素は計画に包含されている。
These elements are comprehended in the plan.