Translation guide
The English verb "undergo" means to experience or be subjected to something, often something difficult, a change, or a process. Japanese expresses this idea through several verbs and constructions, depending on what is being undergone.
To experience or endure something negative, such as hardship, suffering, or an ordeal.
The most general and neutral verb for "experience." It can be used for both positive and negative experiences, but is very common for undergoing difficulties.
彼は多くの困難を経験した。
He underwent many hardships.
Literally "to receive," this verb is used when undergoing something that comes from an external source, such as damage, influence, or an operation.
その地域は大きな被害を受けた。
The area underwent great damage.
Means "to taste" or "to experience," often used for undergoing emotional or difficult experiences, emphasizing the personal feeling.
彼は人生の辛さを味わった。
He underwent the bitterness of life.
Means "to suffer" or "to sustain" (damage, loss). Often used in formal or written contexts for undergoing negative consequences.
会社は巨額の損失を被った。
The company underwent a huge loss.
To go through a transformation, development, or procedure.
This pattern means "to go through" a process or stage. It is very natural for describing undergoing a series of steps or a period of change.
その計画は多くの変更を経た。
The plan underwent many changes.
Intransitive verb meaning "to change." Used when the subject itself undergoes change, often with a focus on the result.
町の景観が大きく変化した。
The town's landscape underwent a big change.
Also used for undergoing processes like tests, examinations, or treatments.
Literally "to step on," but idiomatically used for undergoing a procedure or steps, such as "undergo the formalities."
必要な手続きを踏む。
Undergo the necessary procedures.
To receive medical care, tests, or surgery.
The standard verb for undergoing medical procedures, examinations, or treatment.
健康診断を受ける。
Undergo a health checkup.
Specifically means to undergo a medical examination or see a doctor. More formal than 受ける.
彼は精密検査を受診した。
He underwent a thorough examination.
経験する emphasizes the personal experience of an event, while 受ける focuses on receiving an action from an external source. For example, 手術を経験する (undergo surgery as an experience) vs. 手術を受ける (undergo surgery as a procedure).
There is no single Japanese verb that covers all uses of 'undergo.' Translating it literally as 下に行く or similar is incorrect. Always choose the verb based on what is being undergone.
He underwent surgery.