Translation guide
To confirm, verify, or ensure something is true or correct. Japanese uses different expressions depending on whether you are checking facts, ensuring an action is done, or confirming arrangements.
時間を確かめてください。
Make sure of the time.
必ず鍵をかけてください。
Make sure to lock the door.
To check and verify that something is true, correct, or as expected.
The most common and versatile verb for 'make sure of' or 'confirm'. Used for checking facts, information, or conditions.
出発時間を確かめてください。
Please make sure of the departure time.
彼が本当に来るか確かめたい。
I want to make sure he's really coming.
Formal and widely used for 'confirm' or 'verify'. Common in business and official contexts.
予約を確認したいのですが。
I'd like to confirm my reservation.
事実を確認する必要がある。
We need to verify the facts.
Casual loanword from English 'check'. Used for quick checks or inspections.
メールをチェックして、間違いがないか確かめて。
Check the email and make sure there are no mistakes.
To take action so that something happens or is completed correctly.
Pattern meaning 'make sure to do' or 'be sure to'. Emphasizes that the action must be done without fail.
必ず鍵をかけてください。
Make sure to lock the door.
明日必ず電話します。
I'll make sure to call tomorrow.
Casual pattern meaning 'do properly' or 'make sure to do'. Implies doing something thoroughly or correctly.
ちゃんと宿題をやってね。
Make sure you do your homework.
Pattern meaning 'make sure to' or 'try to ensure'. Expresses effort to achieve a state or action.
忘れ物をしないようにしてください。
Please make sure you don't leave anything behind.
To double-check plans, agreements, or mutual understanding.
Means 'confirm just to be sure'. Used when you want to double-check something to avoid mistakes.
念のため、集合場所を確認しましょう。
Let's make sure of the meeting place, just to be safe.
Means 'reconfirm' or 'double-check'. Used when verifying something again.
スケジュールを再確認してください。
Please double-check the schedule.
Do not translate 'make sure of' word-for-word. Phrases like '確かにする' or '作る確か' are incorrect. Use the verbs and patterns above.
確かめる is more personal and active (checking with your own eyes/ears). 確認する is more formal and often used for official verification or checking records.
彼の居場所を確かめた。
I checked where he was (by looking/asking).
データを確認しました。
I confirmed the data (in a report/system).