Translation guide
The English verb 'find' covers discovering something lost, encountering something by chance, forming an opinion, and more. Japanese uses different verbs and expressions depending on the nuance.
I found my keys.
I find it interesting.
To locate something you were looking for or that was missing.
The most common and general verb for finding something you were looking for. Transitive.
Intransitive; used when something is found (by someone) or turns up. The subject is the thing found.
Formal, often used for discoveries (scientific, historical) or finding something significant.
A new star was discovered.
To come across something or someone unexpectedly.
To discover that something is true or to have a particular feeling about something.
Used to express 'find that...' or 'realize that...'. Attach to a clause.
To manage to get something, like time, money, or an opportunity.
To officially decide a verdict.
見つける is transitive (I find something). 見つかる is intransitive (something is found). Use 見つける when you actively look for and find something. Use 見つかる when something turns up or is discovered, often without specifying who found it.
I found the key.
He found a job.
鍵が見つかった。
The keys were found.
I found a good apartment. (lit. A good apartment was found.)
To happen to see someone or something; to notice in passing.
I saw (found) Mr. Tanaka at the station.
I often see cats around here.
To run into someone or something, often with a nuance of unexpectedness or trouble.
I encountered a bear on the way home.
Formal word for encountering, often used for accidents, disasters, or rare events.
We encountered a blizzard while climbing.
I found that he was lying.
I found the job more difficult than I expected.
Literally 'think that...', often used to translate 'find' when expressing a personal opinion or impression.
I find this book interesting.
I found his story hard to believe.
To feel that...; emphasizes emotional or sensory impression.
I found her attitude cold.
Also used for finding abstract things like time or a way.
Let's find time to exercise.
We must find a solution.
To obtain, get hold of something desired.
I finally found (got) a ticket.
The court found him guilty.
To recognize/declare someone as...
The jury found the defendant not guilty.
鍵が見つかった。
The key was found.
The loanword ファインド is not commonly used in natural Japanese. Stick to the verbs and patterns above.