Translation guide
Expresses a change in form, nature, or state. Japanese uses different verbs depending on whether the change is gradual, sudden, magical, or metaphorical.
To express that something changes into something else, often gradually or as a process.
General verb for 'to change' or 'to be transformed'. Used for both concrete and abstract changes. Intransitive.
The town has been greatly transformed.
His attitude has been transformed.
More formal or technical term for 'to change' or 'to undergo transformation'. Often used in scientific or objective contexts.
The substance is chemically transformed.
To undergo a complete or sudden transformation. Emphasizes a dramatic change.
The situation was completely transformed.
To express that something turns into a specific new form or thing, often with a clear result.
Pattern using 変わる to indicate what something changes into. The result is marked by に.
Water is transformed into ice.
The dream was transformed into reality.
Suffix-like verb meaning 'to change into', often used in compounds or literary contexts. Can be intransitive.
Formal/literary verb for 'to change' or 'to transform'. Can be used intransitively.
To express transformation as in fairy tales, magic, or supernatural changes, often involving a complete change of appearance.
To transform one's body or appearance, as in superheroes or magical girls. Intransitive.
The magical girl transforms.
He transformed into a wolf.
To disguise oneself as something else; to take on a different form, often used for ghosts, animals, or tricksters.
To express that a person's character, feelings, or situation is transformed in a non-physical way.
English 'be transformed' is passive, but Japanese often uses intransitive verbs (変わる, 変化する) to express a change that happens on its own. If an external agent causes the transformation, use the transitive form (変える, 変化させる) or passive voice (変えられる).
The town was transformed by the war. (passive, external cause)
変わる is the everyday word for change. 変化する is more formal and often used for systematic or scientific transformation. In casual speech, 変わる is preferred.
蛹が蝶に化する。
The chrysalis is transformed into a butterfly.
姿が変ずる。
The form is transformed.
狐が人間に化ける。
The fox transforms into a human.
He has been transformed and become kind, like a different person.