Translation guide
The English verb "prove" covers several distinct meanings: demonstrating truth, showing ability, turning out to be the case, and more. Japanese uses different verbs and patterns for each. This guide breaks them down by intent.
To provide evidence or argument that a statement, fact, or claim is true.
The most direct and common translation for proving a fact, theory, or claim with evidence. Used in formal and everyday contexts.
He proved his innocence.
The scientist is trying to prove the theory.
Similar to 証明する but often used in legal or formal contexts, emphasizing the establishment of proof through evidence.
The prosecution could not prove the defendant's guilt.
To support or corroborate a claim with evidence. Often used when evidence backs up a statement.
This data proves (supports) his hypothesis.
Literally 'to show evidence'. Used when the focus is on presenting proof.
He showed evidence to prove his claim.
To demonstrate through action that one is capable, worthy, or has a particular quality.
Used with nouns like 実力 (ability) or 価値 (worth). The pattern is [quality]を証明する.
He proved his ability in that match.
Literally 'to show'. A natural way to say 'prove oneself' by demonstrating a quality through action.
To demonstrate or prove through actual practice or performance. Often used in technical or business contexts.
To prove the effectiveness of the new system.
To be found or shown to have a particular quality or to be true after experience or time.
Used when something becomes clear or is discovered to be true. Often follows a clause.
The rumor proved (to be) true.
He proved to be the culprit.
More formal than ～とわかる. Often used in news or official statements when something is determined to be true.
The document proved to be a forgery.
Passive form of 証明する, meaning 'it is proven that...'. Used when the focus is on the fact being established.
His innocence was proved.
To check or test something to ensure it works or meets standards.
To try out or test something to see if it works or is effective. Common in everyday contexts.
I tried (to prove) a new method.
To verify or validate through examination. Used in technical, scientific, or formal contexts.
We need to prove (verify) the hypothesis.
To confirm or check. Often used when proving something by checking facts or status.
We proved (confirmed) his alibi.
To demonstrate a theorem or logical statement using formal reasoning.
The standard term for mathematical proof.
It is difficult to prove that theorem.
To demonstrate one's worth or ability through actions, often in a challenging situation.
English 'prove' is often used in contexts where Japanese prefers other verbs. For example, 'prove difficult' is not 難しいと証明する but 難しいとわかる or simply 難しい. Match the verb to the intended meaning.
証明する is the general term for proving. 立証する is stronger and often legal. 裏付ける means to support with evidence, not necessarily to conclusively prove.
Can you prove it?
He proved his competence in that job.