Translation guide
The English phrase "be flexible" can refer to physical flexibility, adaptability in plans or thinking, or a willingness to compromise. This guide covers natural Japanese expressions for each meaning.
Expressing willingness to change plans, adapt to circumstances, or be open-minded.
A common, natural phrase meaning 'to respond flexibly'. Used in business and daily life.
状況に応じて柔軟に対応します。
I will respond flexibly according to the situation.
A set phrase meaning 'to adapt to circumstances' or 'to play by ear'. Slightly more formal and often used in business contexts.
臨機応変に対応できる人を求めています。
We are looking for someone who can adapt to circumstances.
Describes a person who is flexible, accommodating, or resourceful. Often used to praise someone's adaptability.
彼は融通が利くので、どんな仕事でもうまくやります。
He is flexible, so he handles any job well.
A pattern meaning 'in accordance with' or 'to match'. It implies adjusting flexibly to something.
お客様のご要望に合わせてプランを変更できます。
We can change the plan flexibly according to the customer's request.
The adjective 'flexible' itself. Often used in compounds like 柔軟な態度 (flexible attitude).
柔軟な考え方が必要です。
A flexible way of thinking is necessary.
Describing a body that bends easily, or stretching exercises.
The most common word for physical flexibility. Means 'soft' or 'supple'.
体が柔らかいですね。
You are flexible, aren't you?
A slightly more formal or technical way to say 'body is flexible'. Often used in sports or health contexts.
体操選手は体が柔軟です。
Gymnasts have flexible bodies.
Describes graceful, supple flexibility, often with a positive aesthetic nuance. Used for bodies, movements, or materials.
Showing readiness to adjust one's position or demands for the sake of agreement.
Means 'to concede' or 'to compromise'. Used when giving ground in a negotiation or discussion.
お互いに譲歩して、合意に達しました。
We both compromised and reached an agreement.
Literally 'to step closer', meaning to meet halfway or find a middle ground. Emphasizes mutual effort.
両者が歩み寄ることが大切です。
It is important for both sides to meet halfway.
A formal phrase meaning 'to show a flexible attitude'. Often used in business or diplomatic contexts.
交渉では柔軟な姿勢を見せることが成功の鍵です。
In negotiations, showing a flexible attitude is the key to success.
The direct translation 「フレキシブルである」 is rarely used in natural Japanese. Instead, use the phrases above depending on context.
柔軟 (jūnan) is general flexibility, while 融通 (yūzū) often implies resourcefulness or financial accommodation. 融通が利く is a common set phrase for a flexible person.
彼女のしなやかな動きに感動しました。
I was impressed by her supple movements.