Translation guide
How to express that something is obtained, acquired, or becomes available in Japanese, depending on whether it is a physical object, information, a result, or an abstract thing.
To say that something is obtained or acquired in a neutral or formal context.
The passive/potential form of 得る (to get/obtain). It is the most direct and neutral way to say 'can be obtained' or 'is obtained'. Suitable for both concrete and abstract things.
The necessary information can be obtained on the internet.
This medicine cannot be obtained without a prescription.
Literally 'can be obtained' or 'available'. Often used for physical items, documents, or tickets. Slightly more concrete than 得られる.
Tickets can be obtained online.
This book is out of print and hard to obtain.
A common, slightly casual expression meaning 'to come into one's hands' or 'to be obtainable'. Used for things you can get or acquire, often with a nuance of effort or luck.
This limited edition item is quite hard to obtain.
I finally obtained the book I wanted.
To express that information, data, or results are obtained, often through research or inquiry.
To express that something becomes available or is produced as a result.
To express 'is obtained' in highly formal, technical, or legal writing.
English often uses 'be obtained' in passive constructions that sound unnatural if directly translated into Japanese. In many cases, it's better to use active phrasing or a different verb that matches the context (e.g., 手に入る for personal acquisition, 得られる for general availability).
得られる is more formal and abstract; it can be used for information, results, and general availability. 手に入る is more concrete and often implies personal effort or luck in acquiring a physical item. 入手できる is similar to 手に入る but slightly more formal and often used in commercial or official contexts.
The necessary information can be obtained online.
Tickets can be obtained at the counter.
This rare book is hard to obtain.
この反応で水素が生じる。
Hydrogen is obtained (produced) in this reaction.