Translation guide
The English word "test" can refer to an exam, a trial, or a challenge. This guide covers natural Japanese expressions for each meaning.
Referring to a formal assessment of knowledge or skill, such as a school exam, driving test, or certification exam.
The most common and general word for a formal test or exam. Used for school exams, entrance exams, and certification tests.
Referring to trying something out to see if it works or to evaluate it, such as a product test, a trial run, or a scientific experiment.
Referring to a difficult situation that tests one's abilities, patience, or character.
A test of one's strength, faith, or character; a trial or ordeal. Often used in spiritual or personal growth contexts.
試験 is more formal and often used for official or high-stakes exams (e.g., university entrance exams). テスト is more casual and common for classroom quizzes or informal tests. In many everyday situations, they are interchangeable, but 試験 carries a slightly more serious tone.
When 'test' means 'to try something' (e.g., 'test the water'), use 試す (ためす) or 試してみる, not 試験する or テストする. 試験する is rarely used as a verb; テストする is acceptable for technical testing but not for casual trying.
I have a math test tomorrow.
試験に合格しました。
I passed the test.
A loanword from English, commonly used for quizzes, classroom tests, or informal assessments. Slightly more casual than 試験.
今日は英語のテストがある。
I have an English test today.
A formal term for an examination, often used in official or academic contexts. Less common in everyday speech.
期末考査が近づいている。
The final exam is approaching.
A noun meaning a trial or test, often used in the phrase 試しに (as a test). Implies trying something to see the result.
試しにこのソフトを使ってみた。
I tried using this software as a test.
Primarily means 'experiment' in a scientific sense, but can be used for testing a hypothesis or trying something new.
新しい方法を実験してみよう。
Let's test the new method.
Also used for non-exam testing, like product testing or software testing. Very common in technical contexts.
このアプリはまだテスト中です。
This app is still in testing.
A formal term for a trial or test run, often used in phrases like 試行錯誤 (trial and error).
試行錯誤を繰り返す。
Repeat trial and error.
この経験は大きな試練だった。
This experience was a great test.
Can be used metaphorically for a challenge, similar to English. Common in casual speech.
人生はテストの連続だ。
Life is a series of tests.
Means 'challenge', but can imply a test of one's abilities. Often used when taking on a difficult task.
これは私にとって大きな挑戦です。
This is a big test for me.
I tested a new recipe.
I tested a new recipe.