Translation guide
The English word 'convertible' can refer to a car with a folding roof, or to something that can be changed from one form or use to another. This guide covers both meanings.
Referring to a car that has a roof that can be folded down or removed.
Describing something that can be converted from one form, purpose, or system to another.
A general adjective meaning 'convertible' or 'transformable'. Used for data, formats, energy, etc.
このファイルはPDFに変換可能です。
This file is convertible to PDF.
While コンバーチブル is understood for cars, using it to mean 'able to be changed' (e.g., 'convertible sofa') sounds unnatural. Use 変換可能な or ～に変えられる instead.
The most common and natural way to say 'convertible' (the car) in Japanese. It is a loanword from English 'open car'.
彼は新しいオープンカーを買った。
He bought a new convertible.
A direct loanword from English, but less common than オープンカー. It is understood, especially among car enthusiasts.
あのコンバーチブルは高そうだ。
That convertible looks expensive.
From French 'cabriolet'. Used in some car model names or by enthusiasts, but not common in everyday speech.
このカブリオレは限定モデルだ。
This cabriolet is a limited edition.
Often used for converting systems, policies, or directions. Slightly more formal.
その制度は転換可能な設計になっている。
The system has a convertible design.
A more colloquial way to say 'can be changed into ~'. Use with a noun indicating the target form.
このソファはベッドに変えられます。
This sofa is convertible into a bed.
Used in technical contexts, such as 'convertible bond' (転換社債) or 'convertible laptop'. Not for general use.
コンバーチブル型のノートパソコンが欲しい。
I want a convertible laptop.