Translation guide
The English adverb "satisfactorily" describes doing something in a way that meets requirements or expectations, but not exceptionally. In Japanese, this concept is often expressed through adverbs, verb forms, or set phrases that convey adequacy, acceptability, or fulfillment of conditions.
Expressing that something is done well enough to meet a standard or requirement, without being outstanding.
The most common and versatile adverb meaning 'sufficiently' or 'enough'. It implies that the action meets the necessary level.
彼はその仕事を十分にこなした。
He performed the job satisfactorily.
I was able to understand satisfactorily with this explanation.
Literally 'satisfyingly', this adverb is often used in negative sentences to mean 'not satisfactorily' or 'not properly'. In affirmative sentences, it can sound slightly more subjective than 十分に.
Often used in negative contexts (e.g., 満足に〜できない). In affirmative statements, 十分に is more neutral.
彼は満足に日本語を話せない。
He cannot speak Japanese satisfactorily.
その問題は満足に解決された。
The problem was resolved satisfactorily.
Means 'without problems' or 'smoothly'. It emphasizes that the action was completed without any issues, which implies a satisfactory outcome.
システムは問題なく動作している。
The system is operating satisfactorily.
A casual adverb meaning 'properly' or 'as expected'. It conveys that something was done in a satisfactory manner, often with a nuance of reliability or correctness.
宿題はちゃんとやったよ。
I did my homework satisfactorily.
Indicating that something is acceptable or passes a threshold, often in evaluative contexts.
An adverb meaning 'passable' or 'so-so'. It suggests a satisfactory but not excellent level, often used in casual reviews or self-assessment.
試験の結果はまずまずだった。
The exam results were satisfactory.
Similar to まずまず, meaning 'so-so' or 'not bad'. Very common in everyday speech.
味はまあまあだね。
The taste is satisfactory.
Literally 'passing mark', used as a noun to describe something that meets the minimum standard. Often used in the phrase 合格点を与える (give a passing grade).
Expressing that something meets specific conditions, requirements, or expectations, often in formal or technical contexts.
A common phrase meaning 'to satisfy conditions'. It is used when something meets the required criteria.
この製品は品質基準を満たしている。
This product satisfactorily meets the quality standards.
Means 'to meet expectations'. It implies a satisfactory response to what was hoped for.
彼の演技は期待に応えるものだった。
His performance was satisfactory, meeting expectations.
Means 'appropriately' or 'properly'. It suggests that something was done in a suitable and satisfactory manner for the context.
問題は適切に処理された。
The issue was handled satisfactorily.
While 満足に can mean 'satisfactorily', it is most natural in negative sentences (e.g., 満足にできない). For affirmative statements, prefer 十分に or other alternatives to avoid sounding awkward.
十分に is neutral and can be used in both formal and informal settings, focusing on sufficiency. ちゃんと is casual and implies doing something properly as expected, often with a sense of personal responsibility.
機械は問題なく動いています。
The machine is working satisfactorily.
彼女は全ての質問に十分に答えた。
She answered all questions satisfactorily.
彼のプレゼンには合格点をあげられる。
I can give his presentation a satisfactory grade.