Translation guide
The English word 'success' can refer to a favorable outcome, achievement of a goal, or a person/thing that succeeds. In Japanese, the most common equivalent is 成功 (seikou), but depending on context, other words like 成果 (seika) for results, 合格 (goukaku) for passing an exam, or 出世 (shusse) for career success may be more natural. This guide helps learners choose the right expression.
Expressing that something went well or a goal was accomplished.
The most general and common word for success. Can be used as a noun or a suru-verb (成功する).
プロジェクトは成功した。
The project was a success.
成功の秘訣は何ですか？
What is the secret to success?
A common phrase meaning 'to go well' or 'to succeed'. More casual and often used in spoken Japanese.
試験はうまくいった。
The exam went well.
計画がうまくいかなかった。
The plan didn't succeed.
A formal or literary term for fulfillment or accomplishment, often used for long-held wishes or ambitions.
長年の夢が成就した。
My long-held dream came true.
Referring to the positive result itself, rather than the act of succeeding.
Refers to results, fruits, or achievements, often used in business or academic contexts.
努力の成果が出た。
My efforts paid off (literally: the results of my efforts appeared).
この研究は大きな成果を上げた。
This research produced significant results.
Simply means 'result'. Can be positive or negative, but often used in contexts like exam results or outcomes.
Specifically succeeding in a test, entrance exam, or screening.
Used for passing exams, interviews, or screenings. Often used with する (合格する).
大学に合格した。
I passed the university entrance exam.
試験に合格するために勉強している。
I'm studying to pass the exam.
A more casual verb meaning 'to pass (an exam)'. Commonly used in conversation.
Referring to climbing the corporate ladder or achieving high social status.
Specifically means career success, promotion, or rising in the world. Often used with する (出世する).
彼は若くして出世した。
He achieved success at a young age (in his career).
出世コースに乗る。
To get on the fast track to success.
Describing someone or something that is a success.
A successful person. Often used in self-help or business contexts.
彼は成功者だ。
He is a successful person.
A successful work (e.g., a hit movie, book, or product).
この映画は大成功作だ。
This movie is a huge success.
While 成功 is the direct translation, it can sound unnatural in some contexts. For example, 'The party was a success' is better as パーティーはうまくいった or パーティーは盛り上がった, not パーティーは成功した, which sounds stiff. Use うまくいく for casual situations.
パーティーはうまくいった。
The party was a success.
成功 (seikou) is the general concept of success. 成果 (seika) refers to tangible results or achievements. 合格 (goukaku) is specifically for passing a test or screening. Choose based on what kind of success you mean.
Success is the result of effort.
I passed the driver's license test.
A more formal or old-fashioned term for rising in the world and achieving success.
立身出世を夢見て上京した。
He came to Tokyo dreaming of success and advancement.