Translation guide
The English verb 'congeal' describes a liquid becoming thick or solid, often through cooling or chemical change. In Japanese, the most common equivalent is 固まる (katamaru), but other verbs are used depending on the substance and process.
The fat congealed.
To describe a liquid turning into a solid or semi-solid state, such as fat, blood, or jelly.
The most general and common verb for 'congeal' or 'solidify'. Used for liquids turning solid, including fat, blood, and jelly.
The oil cooled and congealed.
The blood has congealed at the wound.
A more formal or technical term for 'congeal' or 'coagulate', often used in scientific contexts.
Blood congeals when exposed to air.
Can mean 'to congeal' or 'to clot', but more commonly means 'to become stiff' (muscles). Use with caution.
Blood congeals.
Specifically for fats, oils, or grease solidifying when cooled.
Specifically for blood clotting or coagulating.
For jelly, gelatin, or aspic setting into a solid.
固まる is the everyday verb for congealing, solidifying, or hardening. 凝固する is a formal, technical term used mainly in scientific or medical contexts for coagulation or freezing.
In everyday conversation, use 'katamaru'.
English 'congeal' is often translated as 固まる, but depending on the substance, other verbs like 凍る (freeze) or 固める (to harden something) might be more natural. Always consider the context.