Translation guide
The English verb 'memorize' refers to committing something to memory, often through repetition. In Japanese, the most common equivalent is 覚える (oboeru), but other expressions exist for different nuances like rote memorization or learning by heart.
To commit something to memory, such as facts, words, or procedures.
The most common and versatile verb for 'memorize'. It can also mean 'to learn' or 'to remember'. Context usually makes the meaning clear.
I memorize new vocabulary.
I memorized his phone number.
A more formal or technical term for 'memorize', often used in written or academic contexts.
A device that memorizes data.
To memorize by mechanical repetition, often without deep understanding.
Specifically means 'to memorize by heart' or 'to learn by rote'. Commonly used for studying facts, formulas, or lines.
I memorize historical dates by rote.
He memorized the entire poem.
Emphasizes memorizing something whole or verbatim, often with a nuance of uncritical memorization.
To internalize something deeply, often through experience or emotional connection.
Literally 'to engrave on one's heart'. Used for deeply memorable experiences or lessons.
I engraved those words on my heart (memorized them deeply).
Literally 'to learn with one's body'. Refers to memorizing through physical practice or muscle memory.
I memorize the dance choreography with my body.
To commit a path or place to memory.
The standard way to say 'memorize a route'.
I have to memorize the new commuting route.
覚える is a general verb for memorizing or learning, while 暗記する specifically means rote memorization. Use 暗記する when emphasizing mechanical repetition, like cramming for a test.
memorize vocabulary (general) vs. memorize vocabulary by rote
覚える means 'memorize' (put into memory), while 思い出す (おもいだす) means 'remember' (recall from memory). Using 覚える for recalling a past event is incorrect.
I need to memorize this for the exam.
Using 暗記する emphasizes rote learning for a test.
She memorized the entire script in one night.
There's no point in memorizing the textbook word for word.