Translation guide
The English word 'control' covers a wide range of meanings, from managing systems and emotions to dominating others. Japanese uses different words and patterns depending on what is being controlled and how.
To direct the functioning of something, often with a device or by adjusting settings.
The most common and technical term for controlling machines, systems, or processes. Used for things like temperature, robots, or traffic.
This system automatically controls the temperature.
Control the robot remotely.
Focuses on the physical act of operating or manipulating a device, like a computer or a machine. More hands-on than 制御.
This machine is easy to control/operate.
Used for managing systems, data, or resources, often with an administrative nuance. Not for physical machines.
Manage/control the database.
To keep feelings or actions in check, often through self-discipline.
To dominate, command, or determine the actions of others.
Implies strong control or domination over people, territories, or markets. Can have a negative connotation.
To keep something within desired bounds, often through rules or mechanisms.
Used for official regulations or controls imposed by authorities, like government price controls or speed limits.
To ensure accuracy or consistency by comparison or testing.
The English verb 'control' cannot always be directly translated as コントロールする. For machines, use 制御する or 操作する; for emotions, use 抑える; for dominating, use 支配する. Using コントロールする for everything can sound unnatural or overly vague.
制御 (せいぎょ) is for automatic or technical control (e.g., temperature, robots). 操作 (そうさ) is for manual operation (e.g., driving a car, using a computer). 管理 (かんり) is for administrative management (e.g., data, schedules).
I can't control my temper.
General verb for suppressing or holding back something like emotions, laughter, or desires.
Control one's anger.
I couldn't control my laughter.
Loanword from English, often used for controlling emotions or oneself, but can sound slightly more abstract or psychological.
It's hard to control my emotions.
Formal term for self-control or self-restraint. Often used in serious contexts.
He has strong self-control.
He completely controls the company.
To have a firm grasp or control over a situation, organization, or information. Often used in political or business contexts.
He has control of the organization.
Colloquial and somewhat negative term for dominating or pulling the strings behind the scenes.
He's controlling the meeting (in a domineering way).
The government controls prices.
To curb or restrain growth, inflation, or excessive behavior. Often used in economic or medical contexts.
Policies to control inflation.
Conduct a control experiment and compare the results.
To cross-check or verify data against a control or standard.
Control/verify the data against the original records.
Who controls this project?