Translation guide
Describes two or more things or people that go together harmoniously, are compatible, or are evenly balanced in ability or quality.
To say that two people get along well, share similar values, or have a natural rapport.
The most common and natural way to say two people are compatible. Used for friends, romantic partners, coworkers, etc.
あの二人は本当に相性がいいね。
Those two are really well-matched, aren't they?
私たち、趣味が合うから相性がいいんだと思う。
I think we're well-matched because our hobbies align.
Literally 'spirits match.' Emphasizes that personalities click or that you feel comfortable together. Slightly more casual.
彼とは気が合うから、一緒にいて楽しい。
He and I are well-matched, so it's fun being together.
An idiomatic expression meaning to get along very well, like a rider and horse. Somewhat old-fashioned but still used.
あの二人は馬が合うみたいで、いつも一緒だ。
Those two seem really well-matched; they're always together.
To say that opponents or teams are of equal strength, making a contest fair or exciting.
Means evenly matched in skill, strength, or ability. Often used in sports, games, or debates.
両チームの実力は互角だ。
The two teams are well-matched in ability.
彼と僕の棋力は互角だと思う。
I think his and my chess skills are evenly matched.
Literally 'a good match.' Used when a competition is close and exciting. More colloquial.
これはいい勝負になりそうだ。
This looks like it's going to be a well-matched contest.
A more formal or written term meaning to be closely contested or neck-and-neck.
両者の力は拮抗している。
The two sides are evenly matched in strength.
To say that two things look good together, such as colors, outfits, or a couple.
Often used for couples who look good together, or for clothes/accessories that suit someone. Polite nuance with お.
あのカップルは本当にお似合いだね。
That couple is really well-matched, aren't they?
そのドレス、あなたにとてもお似合いですよ。
That dress is very well-matched to you.
The casual form of お似合いだ. Used for things that suit someone or match well.
その帽子、君に似合っているよ。
That hat looks well-matched on you.
Means to be in harmony. Used for colors, designs, or elements that blend well. More formal or artistic.
この部屋の色合いはよく調和している。
The colors in this room are well-matched.
To say that a person is a good fit for a job, task, or position.
Means someone is the right person for a job or role. Focuses on suitability.
彼はこのプロジェクトのリーダーに適任だ。
He is well-matched for the role of project leader.
Means 'perfect for' or 'ideally suited.' Often used for tasks that match someone's skills perfectly.
この仕事は君にうってつけだよ。
This job is well-matched for you.
Both mean people get along well, but 相性がいい is broader and can include romantic or working compatibility, while 気が合う focuses more on personality and feeling comfortable together. 相性がいい can also be used for non-human pairings (e.g., food and wine).
The English phrase 'well-matched' does not have a single direct Japanese equivalent. Translating word-for-word (e.g., よく合っている) can sound unnatural. Choose the expression that fits the specific context.