Translation guide
The English phrase "relate to" has several distinct meanings. This guide helps learners choose the right Japanese expression depending on whether they mean "connect with a story/feeling," "be connected to a topic," "have a good relationship with someone," or "tell a story."
Expressing that you can personally understand or empathize with a situation, story, or feeling because you have had a similar experience.
I related to his story.
I couldn't relate to the main character of that movie.
A very casual and common way to say "I get it" or "I can relate." Often used in conversation to show understanding and agreement with someone's feelings.
A: Work is tough. B: I can relate.
Literally "to have a memory in one's body." Used when you have personally experienced something similar, often a negative experience. It implies "I know that feeling because I've done it/been there."
A story about oversleeping and being late? I can relate.
Saying that something is about or concerns a particular subject.
Means "to be related to" or "to have a connection with." Used for topics, issues, or things. The particle に marks the topic.
This problem relates to the environment.
That doesn't relate to the current discussion.
A more formal, written-style phrase meaning "concerning" or "regarding." Often used to modify nouns.
Used for stories, legends, or anecdotes that are associated with a place or person. Has a literary or narrative feel.
There is a legend relating to this shrine.
Describing how well you get along with another person.
Means "to get along well with someone." A natural, common phrase for describing interpersonal relationships.
I relate well to him. / I get along well with him.
I'm worried about whether I can relate to my new boss.
Means "to be compatible" or "to hit it off." Focuses on shared interests or personalities clicking.
A deeper, more emotional phrase meaning "to have a mutual understanding" or "to connect heart-to-heart."
Giving an account of events; telling a story.
The English phrase "relate to" covers several distinct concepts. Avoid directly translating it as a single Japanese word. Instead, choose the appropriate expression based on the intended meaning: empathy, relevance, interpersonal relationships, or narration.
Incorrect for "I related to his story." (This would mean "I was connected to his story" in a factual sense.)
I'm reading a book relating to the environment.
I relate to her well. / We get along great.
Even if you don't understand the language, you can sometimes relate to each other.
報告書に詳細を述べた。
He related the details in the report.