Translation guide
This entry covers how to express the idea of examining things and comparing them in Japanese. It includes words and patterns for comparing similarities and differences, evaluating options, and making judgments.
Expressing that you are comparing items, options, or situations to find similarities or differences.
The most common verb for 'compare'. Can be used for both concrete and abstract comparisons.
二つの商品を比べて、安い方を買った。
I compared the two products and bought the cheaper one.
去年と比べて、今年の冬は暖かい。
Compared to last year, this winter is warm.
A more formal or technical term for 'compare'. Often used in written or academic contexts.
両者の性能を比較した。
We compared the performance of both.
Pattern meaning 'compared to ~'. Attach to a noun.
東京と比べて、大阪は物価が安い。
Compared to Tokyo, prices are lower in Osaka.
Similar to 〜と比べて, but slightly more formal. Often used in writing.
前年に比べて、売上が20%増加した。
Compared to the previous year, sales increased by 20%.
Looking at something in detail to understand it or check its condition.
General verb for 'examine', 'check', 'look up'. Used for investigating facts, conditions, or information.
辞書で単語の意味を調べた。
I looked up the meaning of the word in a dictionary.
医者に体を調べてもらった。
I had the doctor examine my body.
Formal term for 'examine' or 'inspect', often used in medical, technical, or quality-control contexts.
製品の品質を検査する。
Inspect the quality of the product.
Means 'inspect' or 'check' for maintenance or safety, like checking a machine or vehicle.
車のタイヤを点検した。
I checked the car's tires.
Highlighting how things are alike or different.
Pattern meaning 'unlike ~' or 'different from ~'. Used to contrast.
兄と違って、弟はスポーツが得意だ。
Unlike his older brother, the younger brother is good at sports.
Pattern meaning 'in contrast to ~' or 'whereas'. Often used in formal or written comparisons.
日本では電車が時間通りに来るのに対して、私の国ではよく遅れる。
In Japan trains come on time, whereas in my country they are often late.
Pattern meaning 'on the other hand'. Used to present contrasting aspects of the same subject.
この仕事は給料がいい一方で、残業が多い。
This job pays well, but on the other hand, there is a lot of overtime.
Considering multiple possibilities to make a decision.
Means 'to consider', 'examine', or 'deliberate'. Used when weighing options carefully.
提案を検討して、来週返事します。
I'll consider the proposal and reply next week.
Compound meaning 'compare and consider'. Used when evaluating multiple options side by side.
複数のプランを比較検討した。
We compared and considered several plans.
比べる is the everyday verb for comparing. 比較する is more formal and often used in written reports or academic contexts. In casual speech, stick to 比べる.
値段を比べよう。
Let's compare prices.
両者を比較すると、A社の方が優れている。
Comparing the two, Company A is superior.
English 'examining and comparing' is often a single action. In Japanese, you may need to choose one verb depending on context, or use a compound like 比較検討する for formal situations. Avoid directly translating 'examining and comparing' as a phrase.