Translation guide
The English verb 'locate' has several core meanings: to find the position of something, to be situated in a place, and to place or establish something in a location. This guide covers natural Japanese expressions for each use.
To discover or determine where something or someone is, often after searching.
The most common and versatile verb for 'find' or 'locate' something you were looking for. Used for physical objects, people, and abstract things.
鍵を見つけました。
I located my keys.
彼の居場所を見つけるのは難しかった。
It was difficult to locate him.
Emphasizes the process of searching and successfully finding. 'Track down' or 'hunt out'.
警察は容疑者を探し出した。
The police located the suspect.
To pinpoint or determine something precisely after investigation, often used for causes, sources, or locations.
問題の原因を突き止めた。
We located the source of the problem.
A more formal or technical phrase meaning 'confirm the location'. Used in navigation or logistics.
GPSで現在地の位置を確認してください。
Please locate your current position using GPS.
To describe where something is located or can be found.
The standard pattern for stating where something is located. Use に for the location.
図書館は駅の近くにあります。
The library is located near the station.
その店は二階にあります。
The shop is located on the second floor.
A more formal verb meaning 'to be located', often used in written descriptions or official contexts.
そのホテルは海岸に位置しています。
The hotel is located on the coast.
Very formal, used for the location of organizations, offices, or in legal contexts.
本社は東京に所在しています。
The head office is located in Tokyo.
To put or set up something in a particular place, often for a purpose.
To install or set up equipment, facilities, or systems in a location.
新しい自動販売機を設置しました。
We located a new vending machine here.
General verb for 'put' or 'place'. Can be used for locating objects in a casual sense.
机を窓のそばに置いた。
I located the desk by the window.
To arrange or deploy people or things in strategic positions.
警備員を入口に配置した。
Security guards were located at the entrance.