Translation guide
The English verb 'renew' covers several related ideas: extending a validity period, replacing something old, resuming an activity, or restoring something to a better state. Japanese uses different expressions depending on the specific meaning.
パスポートを更新する
renew a passport
定期購読を更新する
renew a subscription
To make something continue to be valid by extending its period, such as a subscription, license, contract, or passport.
The standard verb for renewing documents, contracts, memberships, etc. It means to update or extend the validity.
パスポートを更新しなければなりません。
I have to renew my passport.
I renewed my driver's license.
Means 'to continue' and can be used for renewing subscriptions or memberships, emphasizing continuation rather than the administrative update.
ジムの会員を継続しました。
I renewed my gym membership.
To get a new version of something because the old one is worn out, expired, or outdated.
Literally 'make new'. A general way to say you are replacing something with a new one.
カーペットを新しくしたい。
I want to renew the carpet.
Means 'to replace' or 'to exchange'. Used when physically swapping an old item for a new one.
電池を取り替えました。
I renewed the batteries.
Specifically for replacing paper, cloth, or surface coverings like wallpaper, tatami, or screens.
To start something again after a pause, such as a conversation, a friendship, or an effort.
Means 'to resume' or 'to reopen'. Used for activities, negotiations, classes, etc.
Means 'to do over' or 'to start again from scratch'. Often used for personal efforts or relationships.
二人の関係をやり直したい。
I want to renew our relationship.
To give new life or vigor to something, such as energy, a feeling, or a place.
Means 'to recover' or 'to restore'. Used for health, energy, or strength.
休んで体力を回復する。
To rest and renew one's strength.
Means 'to completely renew' or 'to renovate'. Often used for systems, appearances, or feelings.
気分を一新する。
To renew one's mood.
店の内装を一新した。
We renewed the store's interior.
Loanword from English 'refresh'. Casual and common for refreshing one's mind or body.
温泉でリフレッシュした。
I renewed myself at the hot spring.
更新する is only for abstract updates like contracts or data. For replacing a physical object, use 新しくする or 取り替える.
カーペットを更新する
renew the carpet (unnatural)
障子を張り替える。
To renew the paper on a sliding door.