Translation guide
Expresses that something meets requirements or expectations, ranging from 'good enough' to 'acceptable'. Japanese uses different words depending on whether you mean 'sufficient', 'passable', or 'satisfying'.
To say that something is sufficient, adequate, or meets a standard, often in formal or evaluative contexts.
A noun or na-adjective meaning 'satisfaction' or 'satisfactory'. Often used in formal evaluations. Can be used as 満足な (satisfactory) or 満足する (to be satisfied).
The result was satisfactory.
The quality of this product is satisfactory.
A na-adjective or adverb meaning 'enough', 'sufficient', or 'adequate'. Emphasizes that the quantity or degree meets the need.
Is this explanation satisfactory?
His work performance is quite satisfactory.
Noun/suru-verb meaning 'passing (a test)' or 'meeting a standard'. Used when something reaches a required level, like a passing grade.
This answer is satisfactory (passing grade).
Adverb meaning 'so-so', 'passable', or 'tolerable'. Casual and often used in spoken Japanese.
The taste is satisfactory (not bad).
To indicate that something is okay or passable, but not outstanding. Often used in reviews or casual comments.
Adverb meaning 'so-so', 'not bad', 'acceptable'. Very common in everyday speech.
The movie was satisfactory (just okay).
Set phrase meaning 'neither good nor bad', 'passable'. Literally 'no merits, no demerits'.
Adverb meaning 'reasonably', 'passably'. Implies a moderate level, often used for skills or performance.
To express that something satisfies a desire, requirement, or condition, often with a sense of fulfillment.
Verb meaning 'to satisfy (a condition, need, desire)'. Used with objects like 条件 (condition), 要求 (demand), 欲望 (desire).
This result is satisfactory (meets expectations).
Noun/suru-verb meaning 'understanding and acceptance', 'consent'. Something is satisfactory because it makes sense or is convincing.
満足 focuses on emotional or qualitative satisfaction, while 十分 emphasizes quantitative sufficiency. Use 満足 for 'I'm satisfied with the service' and 十分 for 'The amount is sufficient'.
I was satisfied with the service.
I have enough money.
The katakana word サティスファクトリー is rarely used and sounds unnatural. Use the Japanese options above instead.
The results were satisfactory.
His performance was merely satisfactory.
His proposal is satisfactory (neither good nor bad).
彼は英語がそこそこ話せる。
He can speak English satisfactorily (well enough).
To satisfy the necessary conditions.
彼の説明で納得した。
I found his explanation satisfactory (convincing).