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.
彼は自分の無実を証明した。
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.
検察は被告の有罪を立証できなかった。
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.
このデータが彼の仮説を裏付けている。
This data proves (supports) his hypothesis.
Literally 'to show evidence'. Used when the focus is on presenting proof.
彼は自分の主張を証明するために証拠を示した。
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.
彼はその試合で自分の実力を証明した。
He proved his ability in that match.
Literally 'to show'. A natural way to say 'prove oneself' by demonstrating a quality through action.
彼はその仕事で自分の有能さを見せた。
He proved his competence in that job.
To demonstrate or prove through actual practice or performance. Often used in technical or business contexts.
新システムの有効性を実証する。
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.
その噂は本当だとわかった。
The rumor proved (to be) true.
彼が犯人だとわかった。
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.
その書類は偽物だと判明した。
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.
彼の無実が証明された。
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.
新しい方法を試してみた。
I tried (to prove) a new method.
To verify or validate through examination. Used in technical, scientific, or formal contexts.
その仮説を検証する必要がある。
We need to prove (verify) the hypothesis.
To confirm or check. Often used when proving something by checking facts or status.
彼のアリバイを確認した。
We proved (confirmed) his alibi.
To demonstrate a theorem or logical statement using formal reasoning.
The standard term for mathematical proof.
その定理を証明するのは難しい。
It is difficult to prove that theorem.
To demonstrate one's worth or ability through actions, often in a challenging situation.
Direct translation, commonly used.
彼は新しい職場で自分を証明しようと頑張っている。
He is working hard to prove himself at his new job.
To show one's true ability. Natural when talking about proving competence.
彼はそのプロジェクトで実力を示した。
He proved himself on that project.
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.
それを証明できますか？
Can you prove it?