Translation guide
The English verb 'convert' covers a wide range of changes: transforming something into a different form, changing units or currencies, adapting files or data, and even changing beliefs or religions. Japanese uses different verbs depending on what is being converted and how.
To change something into a different form, substance, or state, often through a process.
General term for converting data, energy, signals, or abstract things. Common in technical contexts.
このソフトはPDFをWordに変換できます。
This software can convert PDF to Word.
Broad verb meaning 'to change'. Can be used for converting something into a different state or form in everyday language.
この機械は水を水蒸気に変える。
This machine converts water into steam.
Used for converting or shifting direction, policy, or energy. Often implies a strategic change.
会社は方針を転換した。
The company converted its policy.
To change a measurement or amount from one unit or currency to another.
Specifically for converting units, currencies, or numerical values.
ドルを円に換算してください。
Please convert dollars to yen.
キロメートルをマイルに換算する。
Convert kilometers to miles.
Used specifically for exchanging physical currency (money).
空港でドルを円に両替した。
I converted dollars to yen at the airport.
To adopt a new religion, belief, or ideology.
Specifically for religious conversion.
彼はキリスト教に改宗した。
He converted to Christianity.
Used for ideological or political conversion, often implying a change of allegiance.
彼は共産主義から資本主義に転向した。
He converted from communism to capitalism.
To modify something so it can be used in a different way, such as a building or vehicle.
To remodel or convert a physical object for a new use.
彼らは倉庫をアパートに改造した。
They converted the warehouse into apartments.
To divert or convert something to a different purpose, often without major physical changes.
この部屋を書斎に転用した。
I converted this room into a study.
To change a digital file from one format to another.
The standard term for file format conversion.
動画をMP4に変換する。
Convert the video to MP4.
To successfully complete a conversion in sports like rugby or American football.
Used in rugby/football contexts. The loanword 'コンバージョン' is common.
彼はコンバージョンキックを決めた。
He converted the try.
変換する is for data, energy, or abstract conversion. 換算する is strictly for numerical unit/currency conversion. 変える is a general 'change' and can be used casually for many types of conversion, but is less precise.
The loanword コンバート (konbāto) is used in specific contexts like computing (data conversion) or sports, but it is not a general-purpose translation for 'convert'. Using it for unit conversion or religious conversion would sound unnatural.
データをコンバートする
convert data (acceptable)
✕ ドルを円にコンバートする
convert dollars to yen (unnatural)