Translation guide
The English verb "compare" has two main uses: examining similarities and differences, and saying something is similar to something else. Japanese uses different expressions for these meanings.
To look at two or more things to see how they are similar or different.
The most common and versatile word for comparing things. Used in everyday conversation.
二つの写真を比べてみてください。
Please compare the two photos.
去年と比べて、今年の夏は暑い。
Compared to last year, this summer is hot.
A more formal term, often used in written or academic contexts.
両者の性能を比較する必要がある。
We need to compare the performance of both.
To compare by looking at things side by side. Emphasizes visual comparison.
カタログを見比べて、一番安いのを選んだ。
I compared the catalogs and chose the cheapest one.
To compare by cross-checking or verifying against a reference. Used for documents, data, etc.
原本とコピーを照らし合わせてください。
Please compare the original with the copy.
To state that one thing is like another, often using "compare to" in English.
Used when likening something to something else, often in metaphors or similes.
人生はよく旅に例えられる。
Life is often compared to a journey.
彼女の美しさをバラに例えた。
He compared her beauty to a rose.
Similar to 例える, but more literary or formal. Often used in poetry or artistic descriptions.
To say that something can be compared or is worthy of comparison, often in negative or question forms.
A set phrase meaning "cannot be compared" or "is no match for." Used when there is a huge difference.
彼の才能は私とは比べものにならない。
His talent is beyond compare with mine.
Means "to be comparable to" or "to rival." Used for abilities, qualities, etc.
この製品は海外の有名ブランドに匹敵する品質だ。
This product has quality comparable to famous overseas brands.
比べる is the everyday verb for comparing. 比較する is more formal and often used in writing or technical contexts. In casual speech, 比べる is preferred.
値段を比べる (casual) / 価格を比較する (formal)
compare prices
When saying "compare X to Y" in a figurative sense (like "life is compared to a journey"), use 例える, not 比較する. 比較する is for analytical comparison.
人生を旅に例える (○) / 人生を旅に比較する (✕)
compare life to a journey
二つを比べて、どっちがいいか教えて。
Compare the two and tell me which is better.
東京と比べると、大阪の方がのんびりしている。
Compared to Tokyo, Osaka is more relaxed.
彼女は彼の目を星に例えた。
She compared his eyes to the stars.
compare life to a journey
月を鏡になぞらえる。
To compare the moon to a mirror.