Translation guide
The English verb 'demonstrate' has several distinct meanings. This guide helps learners choose the right Japanese expression based on the intended meaning: showing how something works, proving a point, expressing feelings, or participating in a protest.
To explain or teach by showing, often with a practical example or action.
Literally 'actual performance', used for demonstrating a product, skill, or process in a practical way.
I demonstrated how to use the new product.
A casual phrase meaning 'do and show', commonly used in everyday conversation.
Please demonstrate how to do it.
Means 'explain'. Often used when demonstrating involves verbal explanation rather than physical showing.
The teacher demonstrated how to solve the problem.
Loanword from English 'demonstration', often used in business or technical contexts.
We demonstrated the new software at the trade show.
To provide evidence or proof that something is true or exists.
The standard word for 'prove' or 'demonstrate' in the sense of showing evidence.
This experiment demonstrates that the theory is correct.
Means 'show' or 'indicate', often used in formal or written contexts to present evidence.
Means 'support' or 'corroborate', used when evidence backs up a claim.
To display or express a feeling, ability, or characteristic through actions.
Again 'show', but here for abstract qualities like courage, interest, etc.
He demonstrated courage in the face of difficulty.
Means 'show' in a more personal or emotional sense, often used for feelings or reactions.
Means 'display' or 'exert' (one's ability), often used for skills or leadership.
He demonstrated leadership.
To participate in a public protest or demonstration.
The English verb 'demonstrate' in the protest sense is not directly translated as a single verb in Japanese. Use phrases like デモに参加する or デモ行進する. Saying デモする is sometimes used casually but may sound awkward.
示す (shimesu) is more formal and objective, often used in writing or serious contexts. 見せる (miseru) is more personal and emotional, suitable for showing feelings or reactions.
データは明らかな傾向を示している。
The data demonstrates a clear trend.
This testimony demonstrates his innocence.
彼女は感謝の気持ちを見せた。
She demonstrated her gratitude.
Students demonstrated against the tuition hike.
The labor union demonstrated for higher wages.