Translation guide
The English verb 'achieve' covers reaching goals, attaining results, and realizing ambitions. Japanese expresses this through several verbs and phrases that differ by what is achieved and the nuance of effort, success, or realization.
To successfully reach a set goal, target, or objective, often after effort.
The most common and neutral way to say 'achieve a goal, target, or objective'. Used in business, personal, and academic contexts.
彼は目標を達成した。
He achieved his goal.
We are working hard to achieve the sales target.
Literally 'arrive at', used for reaching a level, stage, or point, often after a process. More formal and less common for everyday goals.
その選手は世界レベルの技術に到達した。
The athlete achieved a world-class level of skill.
Emphasizes accomplishing something significant through effort and perseverance. Often used for great achievements or difficult tasks.
彼は長年の研究を成し遂げた。
He achieved his years-long research.
To obtain a positive result, success, or outcome, often through effort or skill.
A versatile verb meaning 'to obtain, gain, or achieve a result'. Often used with nouns like 結果 (result) or 成功 (success).
努力の末、成功を得た。
After much effort, he achieved success.
良い結果を得るために最善を尽くします。
I will do my best to achieve good results.
Means 'to achieve or produce a result', often used with 成果 (results) or 成功 (success). Slightly formal.
Literally 'win and take', implies achieving something through struggle or competition, like rights or victory.
To make a long-held dream, ambition, or aspiration come true.
The standard verb for 'realize' or 'make something a reality'. Used for dreams, plans, and ambitions.
彼女は夢を実現した。
She achieved her dream.
長年の計画がついに実現した。
The long-held plan was finally achieved.
Specifically used for making wishes, dreams, or desires come true. Often used in personal contexts.
To successfully complete a specific task, mission, or duty.
Means 'to carry out or accomplish a task, duty, or mission'. Formal and often used in business or military contexts.
彼は任務を遂行した。
He achieved his mission.
A compound verb meaning 'to carry through to completion'. Emphasizes persistence and finishing a difficult task.
彼は難しいプロジェクトをやり遂げた。
He achieved the difficult project.
Very formal, meaning 'to accomplish completely'. Used in official reports or serious contexts.
計画を完遂するために全力を尽くした。
They gave their all to achieve the plan.
達成する is used for concrete goals, targets, and numerical objectives (e.g., sales targets, personal goals). 実現する is used for abstract things like dreams, plans, and ideals becoming reality. Use 達成する for measurable achievements and 実現する for making intangible things happen.
English 'achieve' covers many nuances. Using a single Japanese verb for all cases can sound unnatural. Choose the verb that matches the object: 達成する for goals, 実現する for dreams, 得る for results, etc.
彼はビジネスで大きな成果を収めた。
He achieved great results in business.
They achieved freedom.
彼は子供の頃の夢を叶えた。
He achieved his childhood dream.