Translation guide
How to express that things or people go well together, are a good match, or work without problems in Japanese.
Describing that two things work together without issues, such as devices, software, or formats.
The standard technical term for compatibility between systems, devices, or formats. Often used in computing and engineering.
This software is compatible with Windows.
Means 'support' or 'compatibility' in the sense that a device or system can handle a certain format or standard. Often used as ～に対応している.
A casual, non-technical way to say that something can be used together with something else.
Describing how well two people get along, share interests, or have good chemistry.
Specifically referring to whether a couple is well-suited for a relationship or marriage.
Describing alignment or consistency between abstract things like opinions, policies, or objectives.
In Japan, blood types are often believed to influence personality and compatibility. This meaning is culturally specific.
互換性 is strictly for technical/functional compatibility (machines, software). 相性 is for personal chemistry or natural affinity between people, animals, or even food/drink pairings. Don't use 互換性 for human relationships.
This app is not compatible with Android.
このプリンターはWi-Fiに対応しています。
This printer is compatible with Wi-Fi.
Is this cable compatible with the iPhone?
The most common word for personal chemistry or compatibility between people. Can also be used for things like food pairings or pet-owner matches.
I think I have good chemistry with him.
Those two don't seem to get along well.
Literally 'spirits match', meaning you hit it off or share similar feelings/interests. Used for friendships and casual relationships.
I get along well with her.
An idiomatic expression meaning to get along well, literally 'horses match'. Slightly old-fashioned but still used.
He and I get along like a house on fire.
Also used for romantic compatibility. Often appears in phrases like 相性占い (compatibility fortune-telling).
Judging romantic compatibility by blood type isn't scientific.
A straightforward way to say someone is suitable as a marriage partner.
Do you think he's compatible as a marriage partner?
Means consistency or coherence. Used when ideas, data, or arguments are compatible and don't contradict each other.
His arguments lack consistency.
Literally 'not contradictory'. A simple way to say that two things are compatible in the sense of not conflicting.
These two policies are compatible (don't contradict each other).
Apparently, blood type A and O are compatible.
犬と猫の相性は必ずしも悪くない。
Dogs and cats aren't necessarily incompatible.
In everyday conversation about people, using 互換性 would sound robotic. Stick to 相性 or phrases like 気が合う. For things, 対応している or 一緒に使える are more natural than the technical term unless you're in a tech context.