Translation guide
The English verb 'transform' means to change something completely, often in a dramatic or fundamental way. In Japanese, the best translation depends on what is changing and how. Common verbs include 変える (change), 変身する (change form, like a superhero), 一変させる (completely change a situation), and 転換する (convert or shift). For mathematical or technical transformations, 変換する is used. This guide helps you choose the right word for the context.
To make a significant change to the physical form, appearance, or fundamental nature of a person, object, or abstract thing.
The most general verb for 'change'. It can be used for transforming something when the change is intentional and often significant. It is transitive (takes a direct object).
He completely transformed the room.
Means 'to completely change' or 'to revolutionize'. It emphasizes a dramatic, often sudden transformation of a situation, landscape, or condition. It is a transitive verb.
Specifically means to transform someone or something into a different form, like in magic or fiction. It is the causative form of 変身する (to transform oneself).
To describe something that changes its own form, appearance, or nature dramatically, without an external agent being specified.
The intransitive counterpart of 変える. It means 'to change' or 'to be transformed'. Use this when the subject itself undergoes the transformation.
To change the purpose, system, or fundamental character of something, often in a technical or systematic way.
Means 'to convert' or 'to shift'. It is used for transforming systems, policies, or directions. It can be transitive or intransitive.
To apply a mathematical transformation, such as Fourier transform or coordinate transformation.
The standard term for mathematical or scientific transformations. It is transitive.
To describe a complete and often sudden change in form, as in fairy tales or biology.
The go-to word for magical or physical transformation of a person or creature. Intransitive.
The new policy transformed the country.
The internet has transformed our lives.
The wizard transformed the frog into a prince.
The town has completely transformed.
His personality transformed greatly.
Intransitive verb meaning 'to undergo a complete change'. Often used for situations, landscapes, or atmospheres that change dramatically.
The situation transformed completely.
Means 'to transform oneself' or 'to change one's form', like a superhero or a magical creature. It is intransitive and often used in fiction.
He transformed into a wolf.
The company transformed its business to IT.
The policy transformed significantly.
Means 'to convert' in a technical or mathematical sense, like transforming data, energy, or units. It is transitive.
Transform the data into another format.
Transform alternating current into direct current.
Perform a Fourier transform.
Transform into a magical girl.
Biological term for metamorphosis, like a caterpillar turning into a butterfly. Also used in a derogatory sense for 'pervert', so use with caution.
Avoid using this word in non-biological contexts, as it commonly means 'pervert'.
The caterpillar transforms into a butterfly.
The room transformed.
English often uses 'transform into' for changes. In Japanese, the particle に is used with verbs like 変身する or 変わる. Do not try to translate 'into' as a separate word.
He transformed into a monster.