Translation guide
The English word 'overcoming' refers to successfully dealing with or defeating a problem, obstacle, fear, or difficulty. In Japanese, there is no single direct equivalent; instead, various verbs and expressions are used depending on what is being overcome.
To successfully deal with and move past a challenging situation, problem, or barrier.
Literally 'to climb over', this is the most common and versatile verb for overcoming difficulties, hardships, or obstacles. It implies actively getting past something.
He overcame many difficulties.
Let's think of a way to overcome this wall (obstacle).
Means 'to overcome' in the sense of conquering a weakness, fear, or problem through effort. Often used for personal challenges.
She overcame her fear of heights.
Overcoming one's own weaknesses is difficult.
Literally 'to strike and win', this verb emphasizes defeating or triumphing over something like an enemy, temptation, or adversity. Slightly more literary or formal.
Overcome temptation.
He overcame his illness.
To get past a negative emotion or psychological barrier.
As above, this is the standard term for conquering fears, phobias, or emotional weaknesses.
I want to overcome my fear of speaking in public.
Means 'to switch one's feelings/mindset'. Used when overcoming sadness, disappointment, or a bad mood by consciously changing one's attitude.
Means 'to recover (emotionally), to get back on one's feet'. Used after a setback, shock, or depression.
To recover from or manage a health condition or physical challenge.
To defeat someone in competition or conflict.
乗り越える (のりこえる) is used for external obstacles and difficulties (like a wall, hardship, crisis), while 克服する (こくふくする) is used for internal weaknesses, fears, or problems that require personal effort to conquer. However, there is overlap, and both can sometimes be used for the same situation.
Both can mean 'overcome difficulties', but 乗り越える emphasizes getting past them, while 克服する emphasizes conquering them.
There is no single Japanese verb that covers all uses of 'overcome'. Using a direct translation like 克服する for every situation can sound unnatural. Choose the verb based on what is being overcome.
Even though I failed, I quickly overcame it (switched my mindset).
He overcame (recovered from) his heartbreak.
この薬で病気を治した。
I overcame (cured) the illness with this medicine.
Overcome (win against) a rival.