Translation guide
Expresses that something can be done, is feasible, or may happen. Japanese uses potential verb forms, ことができる, or adverbial phrases like 可能だ and あり得る depending on the nuance.
Expressing that someone has the ability or means to do something.
The most natural way to say 'can do' in Japanese. Verbs conjugate into a potential form (e.g., 食べる → 食べられる, する → できる). For godan verbs, the ending changes to -eru (e.g., 書く → 書ける).
私は日本語が話せます。
I can speak Japanese.
彼は泳げる。
He can swim.
A more formal or written way to express potential. Often used when the potential form might be ambiguous or for emphasis.
ここで写真を撮ることができますか。
Is it possible to take photos here?
Means 'possible' or 'feasible'. Often used in formal contexts or as a na-adjective.
実現は可能だ。
Realization is possible.
Expressing that something might occur or is a possibility.
Literally 'can exist/happen'. Used for logical or situational possibilities. The negative is あり得ない (impossible).
それはあり得る。
That's possible.
事故はいつでも起こり得る。
Accidents can happen at any time.
Literally 'there is a possibility'. Used to state that something is possible, often with a nuance of uncertainty.
雨が降る可能性がある。
There's a possibility of rain.
Expresses 'might' or 'maybe'. Less certain than あり得る, more colloquial.
彼は来るかもしれない。
He might come.
Expressing that a plan or action is practically possible.
Used for feasibility, often in business or technical contexts.
この計画は可能ですか。
Is this plan possible?
The potential form of する. Very common for 'can do' or 'is possible' in casual speech.
明日までにできる？
Can you do it by tomorrow?
Expressing that something is permitted or allowed.
Standard way to ask or grant permission. Often followed by です/だ.
ここに座ってもいいですか。
Is it okay if I sit here?
More formal than ～てもいい. Implies 'I don't mind if...'.
タバコを吸っても構いませんか。
Do you mind if I smoke?
English 'be possible' is often not directly translated as a single word. Use potential verb forms or ことができる for ability, and あり得る for possibility.
The potential form is more conversational and common. ことができる is slightly more formal and often used in writing or when the potential form is irregular or ambiguous.