Translation guide
The English verb 'memorize' refers to committing something to memory, often through repetition. In Japanese, the most common equivalent is 覚える (oboeru), but other expressions exist for different nuances like rote memorization or learning by heart.
To commit something to memory, such as facts, words, or procedures.
The most common and versatile verb for 'memorize'. It can also mean 'to learn' or 'to remember'. Context usually makes the meaning clear.
新しい単語を覚える。
I memorize new vocabulary.
彼の電話番号を覚えました。
I memorized his phone number.
A more formal or technical term for 'memorize', often used in written or academic contexts.
データを記憶する装置。
A device that memorizes data.
To memorize by mechanical repetition, often without deep understanding.
Specifically means 'to memorize by heart' or 'to learn by rote'. Commonly used for studying facts, formulas, or lines.
歴史の年号を暗記する。
I memorize historical dates by rote.
彼は詩を全部暗記した。
He memorized the entire poem.
Emphasizes memorizing something whole or verbatim, often with a nuance of uncritical memorization.
教科書を丸暗記しても意味がない。
There's no point in memorizing the textbook word for word.
To internalize something deeply, often through experience or emotional connection.
Literally 'to engrave on one's heart'. Used for deeply memorable experiences or lessons.
その言葉を心に刻んだ。
I engraved those words on my heart (memorized them deeply).
Literally 'to learn with one's body'. Refers to memorizing through physical practice or muscle memory.
踊りの振り付けを体で覚える。
I memorize the dance choreography with my body.
To commit a path or place to memory.
The standard way to say 'memorize a route'.
新しい通勤ルートを覚えなければならない。
I have to memorize the new commuting route.
覚える is a general verb for memorizing or learning, while 暗記する specifically means rote memorization. Use 暗記する when emphasizing mechanical repetition, like cramming for a test.
単語を覚える (general) vs. 単語を暗記する (rote)
memorize vocabulary (general) vs. memorize vocabulary by rote
覚える means 'memorize' (put into memory), while 思い出す (おもいだす) means 'remember' (recall from memory). Using 覚える for recalling a past event is incorrect.
試験のためにこれを暗記しなければならない。
I need to memorize this for the exam.
Using 暗記する emphasizes rote learning for a test.
彼女は一晩で台本を全部覚えた。
She memorized the entire script in one night.