Translation guide
The English word 'repair' covers fixing physical objects, relationships, and abstract things. Japanese uses different verbs depending on what is being repaired and how.
To restore a damaged or malfunctioning item to working order.
The most common and general verb for fixing or mending something. Used for a wide range of objects, from electronics to furniture.
I repaired the broken clock.
Can you fix this chair?
A more formal or technical term for repair, often used for professional repairs or in official contexts.
The car repair took a long time.
This computer needs repairs.
Used specifically for mending clothes, fabrics, or sometimes buildings. Implies patching up or darning.
I mended the hole in my sock.
To restore harmony, trust, or good feelings between people.
Used for repairing relationships, trust, or emotional bonds. Often implies a deliberate effort to fix something that was broken.
It's difficult to repair their relationship.
It takes time to repair trust.
Means 'to regain' or 'to recover'. Used with words like 信頼 (trust) or 絆 (bonds) to express repairing intangible connections.
To correct an error, compensate for harm, or restore a situation.
To make amends for a wrongdoing or to compensate for damage. Often used with 罪 (crime), 過ち (mistake), or 損害 (damage).
He tried to repair his mistake.
Means 'to recover' or 'to restore'. Used for abstract things like reputation, health, or economic conditions.
It's tough to repair one's reputation.
Also used for abstract things like systems or order, though less common than for relationships.
Repair a system glitch.
Referring to the process or outcome of repairing something.
While 直す is the most common verb for fixing objects, it sounds unnatural for relationships. Use 修復する or 取り戻す instead.
直す is casual and general; 修理する is formal and often implies professional service. For everyday fixes at home, 直す is more natural.
I want to repair the lost trust.
関係の修復には努力が必要だ。
Repairing the relationship requires effort.