Translation guide
Expresses that something exists, is located, or is discovered in a place or situation. Japanese uses different verbs depending on whether the subject is animate or inanimate, and whether the existence is discovered or simply located.
To say that an inanimate object or place exists or is located somewhere.
The most basic verb for inanimate existence. Used for objects, plants, buildings, etc. Often translated as 'there is/are' or 'be found'.
There is a book on the desk.
Many old temples are found in this town.
A more formal or written way to say 'exist' or 'be found'. Used for abstract concepts, scientific facts, or formal descriptions.
To say that a person or animal is located somewhere.
The basic verb for animate existence. Used for people, animals, and sometimes sentient beings. 'Be found' is less common for animate subjects, but can be used in contexts like 'can be found'.
To express that something lost, hidden, or unknown is discovered or turns up.
Intransitive verb meaning 'to be found' or 'to be discovered'. Focuses on the thing that is found, not the finder. Very common for lost items, solutions, or hidden things.
To express that something is available or obtainable in a certain place.
Means 'can be obtained' or 'is available'. Used for goods, information, etc. The place is marked with で.
To express a legal judgment or verdict.
Means 'to be judged as'. Used in legal contexts for 'be found guilty/liable'. The judgment is marked with と.
Rare plants are found in this region.
彼は図書館にいる。
He is in the library. (He can be found in the library.)
Rare birds are found in this forest.
The key was found.
A new treatment may be found.
Passive form of 発見する (to discover). More formal, often used for scientific discoveries, archaeological finds, or official reports.
A new planet was found.
Literally 'come out'. Used when something appears or turns up, often unexpectedly. Casual.
The document I was looking for finally turned up.
This book can be found on Amazon.
Simple pattern using ある to indicate location. Often used with 'can be found' nuance when context implies availability.
That information can be found on the website.
The defendant was found guilty.
More formal, means 'to be recognized/certified as'. Used in official findings.
He was found liable.
There is a cat.
English 'be found' often simply means 'exists' or 'is located'. Do not always translate it as 見つかる (discovered). Use ある/いる for simple existence unless discovery is emphasized.