Translation guide
The English verb "analyze" covers a range of activities from detailed examination of data to critical thinking about situations. In Japanese, the most common equivalent is 分析する (bunseki suru), but other expressions like 解析する (kaiseki suru) or 検討する (kentō suru) are used depending on the context. This guide helps learners choose the right Japanese expression based on what is being analyzed and the level of formality.
To study something closely by breaking it down into its parts, often in scientific, business, or academic contexts.
The most general and widely used term for 'analyze'. It can be used for data, trends, situations, texts, etc. Suitable for both formal and informal contexts.
データを分析して、傾向を見つけました。
We analyzed the data and found a trend.
彼は市場を分析するのが得意だ。
He is good at analyzing the market.
Often used for technical or scientific analysis, especially involving computation, systems, or detailed structural examination. Common in IT, engineering, and mathematics.
このソフトウェアでログを解析できます。
You can analyze logs with this software.
遺伝子を解析する技術が進歩している。
Technology for analyzing genes is advancing.
Means to examine or consider something carefully, often with the implication of discussion or evaluation. Used in business meetings, policy discussions, etc. Less about breaking down into parts and more about weighing options or scrutinizing.
提案を詳しく検討する必要がある。
We need to analyze the proposal in detail.
委員会でその問題を検討した。
The committee analyzed the issue.
To examine a situation, problem, or set of circumstances in order to understand it better or make a decision.
Again, the most versatile choice. It can be used for abstract analysis like analyzing a problem or a person's behavior.
彼は冷静に状況を分析した。
He calmly analyzed the situation.
Implies deep consideration or inquiry, often used in academic or intellectual contexts. It suggests a thorough, thoughtful analysis, sometimes with a subjective or interpretive angle.
この論文では、社会現象を考察している。
This paper analyzes social phenomena.
A casual, everyday way to say 'think carefully' or 'analyze' in a non-technical sense. Not suitable for formal writing.
その選択肢をよく考えたほうがいいよ。
You should analyze your options carefully.
To examine the content, structure, or meaning of a written work, such as a book, poem, or article.
Standard term for literary or textual analysis.
学生たちは詩を分析する課題が出された。
The students were given an assignment to analyze a poem.
Literally 'read and unravel', implying a deeper interpretation or deciphering of a text. Often used for complex or ambiguous works.
この小説を読み解くのは難しい。
It's difficult to analyze this novel.
To determine the composition or properties of a material, often in a laboratory setting.
Used for chemical or physical analysis.
水質を分析して、汚染物質を調べた。
We analyzed the water quality and checked for pollutants.
Specifically 'component analysis', used when analyzing the ingredients or constituents of something.
この食品の成分分析をしてください。
Please analyze the components of this food.
分析する (bunseki suru) is the general term for analysis in any field. 解析する (kaiseki suru) is more technical and often implies computational or mathematical analysis. Use 解析する for things like data parsing, system analysis, or scientific modeling. In everyday contexts, 分析する is safer.
データを分析する (general) vs. データを解析する (technical)
analyze data (general) vs. analyze data (technical)
In casual conversation, using 分析する for simple thinking or considering can sound overly formal or stiff. Instead, use 考える (kangaeru) or よく考える (yoku kangaeru) for 'think carefully'.