Translation guide
How to express 'succeed' in Japanese, covering achieving goals, taking over a position, and following in sequence.
The most common meaning: to accomplish what you set out to do, to be successful in an endeavor.
The standard, neutral word for 'succeed' in the sense of achieving success. Used for personal goals, business, projects, etc.
彼はビジネスで成功した。
He succeeded in business.
試験に成功して嬉しい。
I'm happy I succeeded in the exam.
To become the next person to hold a position, such as a throne, a job, or an office.
Formal word for succeeding to a position, title, or legacy. Often used for thrones, family businesses, or traditions.
彼は王位を継承した。
He succeeded to the throne.
To follow in order or time; to be the next thing.
Intransitive verb meaning 'continue' or 'follow'. Used when one event or thing comes after another.
The noun 'success' is 成功 (せいこう), while the verb 'succeed' is 成功する (せいこうする). Be careful not to use the noun form as a verb.
成功する is more formal and often implies a significant achievement. うまくいく is more casual and describes things going smoothly or turning out well. For everyday situations, うまくいく is often more natural.
パーティーはうまくいった？
Did the party go well?
A very common, slightly casual phrase meaning 'go well' or 'succeed'. Often used for plans, attempts, or things turning out successfully.
計画がうまくいった。
The plan succeeded (went well).
うまくいけば、来月完成する。
If all goes well, it'll be finished next month.
Means 'achieve' or 'accomplish'. Used for goals, targets, or objectives. More formal than 成功する.
目標を達成した。
I achieved my goal.
Literally 'win and take', implies succeeding through effort or struggle. Used for hard-won success.
彼は自由を勝ち取った。
He succeeded in winning his freedom.
A common phrase meaning 'take over after someone', often used for family businesses or roles.
息子が父の後を継いだ。
The son succeeded his father (in the business).
Means 'assume office' or 'take up a post'. Used for formal appointments, like a new CEO or president.
新社長が就任した。
The new president succeeded (to the position).
嵐の後に静けさが続いた。
Calm succeeded the storm.