Translation guide
The English verb "prosper" describes thriving, succeeding, or flourishing, especially financially or in business. Japanese expresses this through several verbs and phrases that differ in nuance, formality, and whether they focus on economic success, general well-being, or growth.
Expressing that a person, company, or business is doing well economically, making money, or thriving commercially.
Most common for businesses, shops, or commercial ventures that are bustling and profitable. Often used for stores, restaurants, etc.
あの店は繁盛している。
That shop is prospering.
The new restaurant is prospering.
Broader than 繁盛する; can refer to a town, family, or business flourishing. Often implies long-term prosperity and glory.
この町は商業で栄えた。
This town prospered through commerce.
家業が栄えている。
The family business is prospering.
General term for 'succeed'. Can be used for financial success but is broader. Often used with ビジネスで (in business).
彼はビジネスで成功した。
He prospered in business.
Specifically means 'to be profitable' or 'to make money'. More about profit than overall thriving.
この商売は儲かる。
This business is profitable (prospers).
Expressing that someone or something is doing very well, growing, or flourishing in a broader sense, including health, happiness, or development.
Works for general flourishing of people, communities, or nature. Can be used for non-financial prosperity.
文化が栄えた時代。
An era when culture prospered.
子孫が栄えるように願う。
I wish for my descendants to prosper.
Formal, often used for nations, societies, or large-scale prosperity. Similar to 'prosper' in a grand sense.
国が繁栄する。
The nation prospers.
会社の繁栄を祈ります。
I pray for the prosperity of the company.
Means 'to develop' or 'to expand'. Often used for cities, industries, or organizations growing and prospering.
この地域は急速に発展した。
This region prospered rapidly.
Means 'to become popular/prosperous'. Often used for activities, industries, or customs.
この町では観光が盛んになった。
Tourism has prospered in this town.
Expressing that someone is doing well after moving, starting something new, or in a challenging situation.
Very common phrase meaning 'to go well' or 'to succeed'. Natural for personal endeavors.
新しい仕事はうまくいっていますか？
Are you prospering in your new job?
彼は海外でうまくいっている。
He is prospering abroad.
Means 'going smoothly' or 'favorable'. Often used for progress in work or life.
事業は順調です。
The business is prospering.
繁盛する is for commercial thriving (shops, restaurants). 栄える is broader, for towns, families, or cultures flourishing. 繁栄する is formal and large-scale (nations, companies).
繁盛する is only for businesses or commercial activities. For personal thriving, use うまくいく or 成功する.