Translation guide
The English word 'compatible' describes things that can exist or work together without conflict. In Japanese, expressing this concept depends on whether you're talking about people, devices, software, or ideas. Common translations include 互換性がある (interchangeable/compatible for devices/systems), 相性がいい (good chemistry/match for people or combinations), and 適合する (conforming to standards).
Describing hardware, software, or formats that can work together or be used interchangeably.
Standard term for technical compatibility, meaning 'has interchangeability'. Used for hardware, software, file formats, etc.
This printer is compatible with Windows.
The new version is not compatible with the old file format.
Means 'to support' or 'to be compatible with'. Often used in product specs to list supported standards or devices.
This app is compatible with iOS 15.
Means 'to conform to' or 'to meet standards'. Used in formal/technical contexts for compliance with specifications.
This part is compatible with safety standards.
Describing people who get along well, have good chemistry, or work well together.
Most natural way to say two people are compatible. Literally 'affinity is good'. Used for friends, couples, colleagues.
I think I'm compatible with him.
Those two seem compatible, don't they?
Means 'to get along well', 'to be on the same wavelength'. More casual than 相性がいい, focusing on shared feelings or interests.
Idiomatic expression meaning 'to get along well', literally 'horses match'. Slightly old-fashioned but still used.
Describing abstract things that can coexist or be combined without contradiction.
Means 'to be compatible' in the sense of two things coexisting or being achieved simultaneously, like work and family.
It's hard to make work and family compatible.
Means 'not contradictory'. Used when two statements, ideas, or principles can both be true.
Means 'to be consistent' or 'to have coherence'. Formal, used in logical or systematic contexts.
Describing medical compatibility, such as blood types or organ transplants.
互換性 is for technical interchangeability (devices, formats). 相性 is for personal chemistry or how well things match in a non-technical sense. Don't use 互換性 for people.
This software is not compatible with Mac.
I'm not compatible with her.
The English word 'compatible' is often translated directly as コンパチブル, but this is mainly used in technical jargon or as a loanword. For natural Japanese, use the phrases above depending on context.
彼女とは気が合うんだ。
I get along well with her. / We're compatible.
どういうわけか、彼とは馬が合う。
For some reason, I get along well with him.
His opinion is compatible with my thinking.
This plan is compatible with the overall strategy.
Check the compatibility for organ transplant.