Translation guide
The English verb "classify" means to sort things into groups based on shared characteristics. In Japanese, the most common equivalent is 分類する (bunrui suru), but depending on context, other verbs like 区分する (kubun suru) or 種別する (shubetsu suru) may be more natural. This guide covers the main ways to express "classify" in Japanese, from general sorting to technical categorization.
To sort items, ideas, or organisms into groups based on shared traits. This is the most common meaning.
The standard, all-purpose verb for "classify." Used for everything from library books to biological taxonomy.
The library books are classified by genre.
Classifying living things is difficult.
Emphasizes dividing or separating into distinct sections. Often used for administrative or legal categories.
Classify land according to its use.
Means to classify by type or kind. More formal and less common than 分類する.
Classify and store the documents.
To designate information as secret, confidential, etc.
To arrange according to a system, like taxonomy or data classification.
While 分類された情報 (bunrui sareta jōhō) is grammatically correct, it means 'categorized information,' not 'classified information' in the sense of secret. Use 機密情報 (kimitsu jōhō) or 秘密情報 (himitsu jōhō) instead.
This is classified information.
For simple sorting tasks like organizing files or emails, 分類する is perfectly natural. You can also use 整理する (seiri suru) for 'organize,' but 分類する emphasizes grouping by type.
The documents are classified by date.
This information is classified.
Please classify this information as confidential.