見つける
見つける 30秒了解
- 見つける (mitsukeru) is a transitive verb meaning 'to find' or 'to discover'. It requires an active agent and the particle 'o'.
- It is an Ichidan verb, making its conjugation simple (mitsukeru -> mitsukemasu, mitsuketa, mitsukenai).
- It is the successful result of 'sagasu' (to look for) and is used for both physical objects and abstract ideas.
- It must be distinguished from the intransitive 'mitsukaru' (to be found), which focuses on the object rather than the finder.
The Japanese verb 見つける (mitsukeru) is a fundamental transitive verb that translates most directly to 'to find' or 'to discover' in English. In the landscape of Japanese linguistics, it belongs to the Ichidan verb group (also known as Group 2 or -ru verbs). Understanding its usage requires a grasp of the relationship between the seeker and the object found. Unlike its intransitive counterpart, mitsukaru (to be found), mitsukeru implies an active role—someone is doing the finding. This distinction is crucial for English speakers who often use 'find' for both 'I found my keys' and 'My keys were found.' In Japanese, if you are the agent of the discovery, you must use 見つける.
- Transitivity
- This is a transitive verb (他動詞, tadoushi), meaning it takes a direct object marked by the particle を (o). You find 'something'.
- Intentionality
- While it can describe accidental discovery, it often carries a nuance of successful search or observation. It is the culmination of the action 'sagasu' (to look for).
公園で珍しい花を見つけることができました。 (I was able to find a rare flower in the park.)
The word is composed of two kanji-derived elements: 見 (mi), meaning 'to see', and つける (tsukeru), which in this context acts as a suffix indicating the completion or fixing of an action onto an object. Literally, it suggests 'fixing one's sight' upon something. This makes it a very visual verb. You use it when you spot a friend in a crowd, when you locate a specific error in a document, or when you discover a new hobby that you enjoy. It is ubiquitous in daily life, from the mundane task of finding lost socks to the profound experience of finding one's purpose in life.
新しい仕事はもう見つけましたか? (Have you found a new job yet?)
In social contexts, 見つける is used frequently when talking about opportunities. For instance, 'finding a good restaurant' or 'finding a solution to a problem'. It bridges the gap between physical sight and mental realization. When you 'find' a solution, you are mentally 'seeing' it. This versatility is why it is introduced early in Japanese language studies (CEFR A2). It allows learners to describe their interactions with the world around them effectively. Whether you are a student finding a book in a library or a scientist finding a new star, 見つける is the verb that captures that moment of discovery.
- Social Register
- It is neutral and can be used with friends (mitsukeru) or in polite settings (mitsukemasu). It is not overly formal nor is it slang.
間違いを見つけるのが得意です。 (I am good at finding mistakes.)
Finally, it is worth noting that 見つける can sometimes imply 'catching' someone doing something, similar to 'finding someone out'. For example, finding a child hiding during hide-and-seek or finding someone breaking a rule. In these cases, the 'finding' is an act of exposure. This adds a layer of social consequence to the verb, making it more than just a physical action of locating an object.
隠れている猫を見つけた。 (I found the hiding cat.)
- Common Objects
- Commonly paired with: 鍵 (keys), 財布 (wallet), 仕事 (job), 答え (answer), 理由 (reason), 宝物 (treasure).
彼はついに自分の道を見つけた。 (He finally found his own path.)
Using 見つける correctly involves understanding its grammatical structure and its relationship with other verbs. As an Ichidan verb, its conjugation is straightforward: remove the final '-ru' and add the desired ending. For example, the polite form is mitsukemasu, the past tense is mitsuketa, and the negative is mitsukenai. The most important rule to remember is that it requires the particle を (o) to mark the thing that is found. This is because the action of finding is directed outward from the subject to the object.
- Basic Pattern
- [Subject] は [Object] を 見つける。
Example: 私は 鍵を 見つけた。 (I found the keys.)
図書館でいい本を見つけました。 (I found a good book at the library.)
When you want to express the ability to find something, you use the potential form mitsukerareru. However, in modern Japanese, it is very common to use the shortened potential form mitsukereru. Interestingly, when using the potential form, the particle o often changes to ga, though o is still acceptable. For example, 'I can find it' becomes 'Sore ga mitsukereru'. This nuance is important for intermediate learners who are beginning to navigate the subtleties of Japanese potentiality.
暗いところでは何も見つけられない。 (I can't find anything in the dark.)
Another common usage is the 'te-form' combined with other verbs. For instance, mitsukete ageru means 'to find something for someone else'. This adds a layer of social transaction and kindness to the verb. Similarly, mitsukete shimau implies finding something accidentally or finding something that perhaps shouldn't have been found, adding a sense of regret or surprise. The versatility of the te-form allows 見つける to adapt to a wide range of emotional and social contexts.
- Compound Verbs
- 見つけ出す (mitsukedasu): To find out, to ferret out, to discover through effort.
見つけ直す (mitsukenaosu): To find again, to rediscover.
やっと解決策を見つけ出した。 (I finally found/ferreted out the solution.)
In more advanced contexts, 見つける can be used metaphorically. You might 'find' a flaw in an argument or 'find' a glimmer of hope in a difficult situation. In these cases, the object is abstract, but the grammatical structure remains the same. The verb maintains its core identity of bringing something into the light of awareness. Whether the object is a physical coin on the street or a complex mathematical proof, the act of 'finding' is represented by this powerful verb.
インターネットでその情報を見つけた。 (I found that information on the internet.)
- Passive vs Active
- Active: 先生が私の間違いを見つけた。 (The teacher found my mistake.)
Passive: 私の間違いが先生に見つけられた。 (My mistake was found by the teacher.)
彼は新しい才能を見つけるのがうまい。 (He is good at finding new talent.)
The verb 見つける is a staple of everyday Japanese conversation, media, and literature. You will hear it in almost every episode of an anime, in every news broadcast, and in every casual chat between friends. Its frequency is a testament to how often we engage in the act of discovery. In anime, it's often used in high-stakes situations: 'I've found the enemy!' (Teki o mitsuketa!) or 'I've found the secret!' (Himitsu o mitsuketa!). This dramatic usage highlights the verb's role in revealing hidden truths.
- In Daily Life
- 'Kagi mitsuketa?' (Did you find the keys?) is a common morning question in many Japanese households. It is the natural conclusion to the frantic search that often precedes leaving the house.
「あ、見つけた!ここにあったんだ。」 (Ah, found it! It was here.)
In the business world, 見つける is used when discussing market trends, identifying problems, or finding new clients. A manager might say, 'We need to find a way to reduce costs' (Cost o sakugen suru houhou o mitsukeru hitsuyou ga aru). Here, the verb takes on a more professional, analytical tone. It is also used in the context of recruitment—'finding the right person for the job'. In these scenarios, the 'finding' is the result of careful screening and evaluation, rather than just a visual spotting.
新しい市場を見つけるために調査を行う。 (We will conduct research to find new markets.)
In the news, you'll hear 見つける in reports about scientific discoveries or police investigations. 'The police found the suspect' (Keisatsu ga yogisha o mitsuketa) or 'Scientists found a new species' (Kagakusha ga shushu o mitsuketa). In these formal contexts, the verb is often conjugated to the polite mitsukemashita or the even more formal mitsukedashimashita to emphasize the effort involved in the discovery. It conveys a sense of official accomplishment and factual reporting.
- In Literature
- Authors use 'mitsukeru' to describe characters' internal journeys. Finding one's identity, finding peace, or finding a reason to live are common themes where this verb shines.
彼は本の中に自分自身の影を見つけた。 (He found a shadow of himself within the book.)
Finally, in the digital age, 見つける is used for online navigation. 'Find us on Facebook' or 'Find the download link' are phrases that use this verb in its imperative or polite request forms. It has seamlessly transitioned from the physical world to the virtual one, proving its enduring relevance. Whether you are searching for a physical object, a person, an idea, or a digital file, 見つける is the bridge that connects the seeker to the sought.
ネットで安い航空券を見つけた。 (I found cheap plane tickets on the net.)
- In Social Media
- Hashtags like #見つけた are used when people post photos of interesting things they've spotted during their day, like a beautiful sunset or a cute cat.
街角で素敵なカフェを見つけた。 (I found a lovely cafe on a street corner.)
The most frequent mistake learners make with 見つける (mitsukeru) is confusing it with its intransitive twin, 見つかる (mitsukaru). This is a classic example of the transitive/intransitive pairs that characterize Japanese verbs. In English, 'find' can be used in both ways: 'I found the keys' (active) and 'The keys were found' (passive-like). In Japanese, these are two distinct verbs. If you say 'Kagi ga mitsuketa', you are saying 'The keys found (something)', which is nonsensical. You must use 'Kagi o mitsuketa' (I found the keys) or 'Kagi ga mitsukatta' (The keys were found).
- The 'Ga' vs 'O' Trap
- Remember: Object を 見つける (Active/Transitive) vs. Subject が 見つかる (Passive-like/Intransitive). If you use 'ga' with 'mitsukeru', you are likely making a mistake unless it's a potential form.
❌ 財布が見つけた。 (Incorrect)
✅ 財布を見つけた。 (Correct: I found the wallet.)
✅ 財布が見つかった。 (Correct: The wallet was found.)
Another common error is using 見つける when sagasu (to look for) is more appropriate. 見つける is the end result, while sagasu is the process. If you are currently in the middle of searching, you should use sagashite iru. You only use 見つける once the search is successful. English speakers sometimes say 'I am finding my keys' when they mean 'I am looking for my keys'. In Japanese, 'mitsukete iru' is rare and usually implies a continuous state of discovery or a habitual action, not the act of searching.
❌ 30分間、鍵を見つけていた。 (Incorrect)
✅ 30分間、鍵を探していた。 (Correct: I was looking for the keys for 30 minutes.)
Learners also sometimes confuse 見つける with miru (to see/watch). While both involve the eyes, miru is the general act of looking, whereas 見つける is the specific act of identifying or locating something. If you just 'see' a bird, use miru. If you were looking for a specific bird and finally spotted it, use 見つける. This distinction is subtle but important for sounding natural. Using 見つける too broadly can make your Japanese sound overly dramatic or specific when a simple 'I saw it' would suffice.
- Potential Form Confusion
- Learners often struggle with 'mitsukerareru' vs 'mitsukeru koto ga dekiru'. Both are correct, but 'mitsukerareru' (or 'mitsukereru') is more common in spoken Japanese. However, avoid using 'mitsukaru' when you mean 'can find'.
❌ どこでもその本が見つかる。 (Means: The book can be found everywhere - passive nuance)
✅ どこでもその本を見つけられる。 (Means: You can find that book anywhere - active nuance)
Finally, be careful with the particle ni. While you find something in a place (place de object o mitsukeru), you don't 'find to' a person. If you want to say you found something for someone, you must use the te-ageru construction: 'Tomodachi ni kagi o mitsukete ageta'. Using just ni without the supporting verb will lead to grammatical confusion. Mastering these nuances will elevate your Japanese from 'understandable' to 'fluent'.
間違いを見つけるのは難しい。 (Finding mistakes is difficult.)
- Summary of Mistakes
- 1. Confusing with 'mitsukaru' (intransitive).
2. Using 'mitsukeru' for the searching process (should be 'sagasu').
3. Incorrect particle usage (using 'ga' instead of 'o' for the object).
4. Overusing it for simple 'seeing' (should be 'miru').
ついに犯人を見つけた! (I finally found the culprit!)
While 見つける (mitsukeru) is the most common way to say 'to find', Japanese offers several alternatives depending on the context, formality, and what exactly is being found. Understanding these synonyms will help you choose the most precise word for your situation. The most direct relative is mitsukedasu, which adds the suffix dasu (to take out/start). This emphasizes the effort of searching and 'bringing out' something that was hidden or difficult to find. It’s like 'ferreting out' or 'unearthing'.
- Comparison: Mitsukeru vs. Mitsukedasu
- 見つける: General finding, can be accidental or after a search.
見つけ出す: Emphasizes the effort and the act of pulling something out from a hidden state.
古い書類の中から証拠を見つけ出した。 (I unearthed the evidence from among old documents.)
For scientific or formal discoveries, the Sino-Japanese word 発見する (hakken suru) is used. While mitsukeru is used for finding your keys, hakken suru is used for finding a new planet or a new medical treatment. It carries a much more academic and significant weight. If you use hakken suru for your lost wallet, it sounds like you've made a major historical discovery, which might be funny but is technically incorrect. Use hakken suru for 'discoveries' in the grand sense.
コロンブスがアメリカ大陸を発見した。 (Columbus discovered the American continent.)
Another related word is 見当たる (miataru), which is often used in the negative form miataranai to mean 'cannot be found' or 'is nowhere to be seen'. It is slightly more formal than saying 'mitsukaranai'. It implies that you've looked around and the object is simply not in your field of vision. It's very common in polite speech when you can't find something you're looking for in a store or office. 'O-saifu ga miataranai no desu ga...' (I can't seem to find my wallet...).
- Comparison: Mitsukeru vs. Sagasu
- 探す (sagasu): The act of looking for something.
見つける (mitsukeru): The act of successfully finding it.
いくら探しても、鍵が見当たらない。 (No matter how much I look, I can't find the keys.)
In the context of 'finding out' information or 'detecting' something, 見抜く (minuku) or 見極める (mikiwameru) might be used. Minuku means to see through something, like a lie or a disguise. Mikiwameru means to see clearly or to ascertain the truth of a situation. These are more specialized verbs that involve a deeper level of perception than the general mitsukeru. They are used when the 'finding' involves critical thinking or intuition.
彼女は彼の嘘をすぐに見抜いた。 (She immediately saw through/found out his lie.)
- Quick List of Alternatives
- 1. 発見する (hakken suru) - To discover (formal/scientific).
2. 見つけ出す (mitsukedasu) - To ferret out (effortful).
3. 見当たる (miataru) - To be found/in sight (often negative).
4. 探し出す (sagashidasu) - To search and find.
5. 拾う (hirou) - To pick up/find on the ground.
道で100円玉を拾った。 (I found/picked up a 100-yen coin on the street.)
How Formal Is It?
"新しい解決策を見つけました。"
"いい店を見つけたよ。"
"見っけ!"
"宝物を見つけようね!"
"神案件見つけたわ。"
趣味小知识
The 'tsukeru' part of the word originally implied 'attaching' your vision to the object, effectively 'pinning' it down with your sight.
发音指南
- Pronouncing 'tsu' as 'su'.
- Elongating the final 'u' sound.
- Putting too much stress on the 'ke' syllable.
- Using a hard English 'r' sound.
- Confusing the pitch with 'mitsukaru'.
难度评级
The kanji 見 is very basic (Grade 1). The okurigana is standard.
Easy to write, but remember the 'tsu-ke-ru' okurigana.
Requires distinguishing from 'mitsukaru' and 'sagasu' in real-time.
Very common and easy to hear in context.
接下来学什么
前置知识
接下来学习
高级
需要掌握的语法
Transitive vs Intransitive Pairs
見つける (Transitive) vs 見つかる (Intransitive)
Ichidan Verb Conjugation
見つける -> 見つけます、見つけた、見つけない
Potential Form of Ichidan Verbs
見つけられる (or 見つけれる in casual speech)
Using 'o' with Transitive Verbs
鍵を見つける
Te-form for auxiliary verbs
見つけてあげる、見つけてしまう
按水平分级的例句
公園で猫を見つけた。
I found a cat in the park.
Simple past tense of 'mitsukeru'.
あ、私のペンを見つけた!
Ah, I found my pen!
Exclamatory use of the past tense.
どこでそれを見つけましたか?
Where did you find that?
Polite past tense question.
友達をすぐに見つけた。
I found my friend right away.
Using 'sugu ni' (right away) with the verb.
カバンの中に鍵を見つけた。
I found the keys inside the bag.
Using 'no naka ni' to specify the location.
いい本を見つけたいです。
I want to find a good book.
Using the '-tai' form for desire.
お母さんが私の宿題を見つけた。
My mother found my homework.
Subject (mother) + Object (homework) + Verb.
宝物を見つけよう!
Let's find the treasure!
Volitional form 'mitsukeyou' (let's find).
駅の近くでいいカフェを見つけました。
I found a good cafe near the station.
Polite past tense used for sharing a discovery.
新しい仕事を見つけるのは大変です。
Finding a new job is difficult.
Using 'no wa' to turn the verb into a subject.
辞書でその言葉を見つけられなかった。
I couldn't find that word in the dictionary.
Negative potential form 'mitsukerarenakatta'.
彼はいつも面白いものを見つける。
He always finds interesting things.
Present tense used for a habitual action.
インターネットで安いホテルを見つけた。
I found a cheap hotel on the internet.
Using 'de' to indicate the medium/location.
間違いを見つけたら教えてください。
If you find a mistake, please let me know.
Using the '-tara' conditional form.
彼はついに自分の道を見つけたようだ。
It seems he has finally found his path.
Using 'you da' to express an impression.
何かいいプレゼントを見つけましたか?
Did you find any good presents?
Polite question about a search result.
彼女は問題の解決策をすぐに見つけ出した。
She quickly ferreted out the solution to the problem.
Using 'mitsukedasu' for an effortful find.
彼は自分の間違いを見つけるのがとても速い。
He is very fast at finding his own mistakes.
Using 'no ga' to describe a skill.
隠していたお菓子を弟に見つけられてしまった。
My hidden sweets were unfortunately found by my younger brother.
Passive form 'mitsukerareru' with 'shimau' for regret.
私たちは共通の趣味を見つけることができた。
We were able to find a common hobby.
Using 'koto ga dekiru' for ability/possibility.
都会で静かな場所を見つけるのは難しい。
It is difficult to find a quiet place in the city.
Nominalizing the verb phrase with 'no wa'.
彼は偶然、その古い地図を見つけたらしい。
Apparently, he found that old map by chance.
Using 'guuzen' (by chance) and 'rashii' (apparently).
もっと効率的な方法を見つける必要があります。
We need to find a more efficient method.
Using 'hitsuyou ga aru' (there is a need).
彼女は自分を表現する新しい手段を見つけた。
She found a new means to express herself.
Abstract object 'shudan' (means/method).
研究者は新しいウイルスの特徴を見つけようとしている。
Researchers are trying to find the characteristics of the new virus.
Volitional form + 'to shite iru' (trying to).
彼の説明にはいくつかの矛盾が見つけられる。
Several contradictions can be found in his explanation.
Potential form used in a formal, objective sense.
彼女は逆境の中に希望を見つける力を持っている。
She has the strength to find hope in the midst of adversity.
Metaphorical use of 'mitsukeru'.
警察はついに逃走中の犯人の居場所を見つけた。
The police finally found the whereabouts of the suspect on the run.
Formal use in a news-like context.
彼は他人の欠点を見つけるのが得意だが、自分のは見えない。
He is good at finding others' faults, but can't see his own.
Contrasting 'mitsukeru' with 'mienai'.
このプロジェクトで自分の役割を見つけることができた。
I was able to find my role in this project.
Abstract use in a professional setting.
新しい市場を見つけるために、徹底的な調査が必要だ。
Thorough research is necessary to find new markets.
Using 'tame ni' to express purpose.
彼は古本屋で珍しい初版本を見つけ出した。
He ferreted out a rare first edition at a used bookstore.
Using 'mitsukedasu' for a significant find.
その論文の論理的な飛躍を見つけるのは容易ではない。
It is not easy to find the logical leaps in that paper.
Formal academic context.
彼女は古典文学の中に現代社会への示唆を見つけた。
She found implications for modern society within classical literature.
High-level intellectual discovery.
彼は沈黙の中に言葉以上の意味を見つけようとした。
He tried to find a meaning beyond words within the silence.
Poetic and philosophical usage.
その法案には、まだ改善すべき点が見つけられるはずだ。
There should still be points to improve that can be found in that bill.
Using 'hazu da' (should be) with the potential form.
彼女は人々の何気ない会話の中に、小説のヒントを見つける。
She finds hints for her novels within people's casual conversations.
Describing a creative process.
その遺跡からは、当時の生活を物語る遺物が多数見つけられた。
Many artifacts telling of life at that time were found from those ruins.
Passive form in a historical/scientific context.
彼は自分のアイデンティティを見つけるために旅に出た。
He went on a journey to find his identity.
Abstract, life-defining search.
複雑なデータの中から、わずかな予兆を見つけ出すのは職人芸だ。
Ferreting out a slight omen from complex data is a master's craft.
Using 'mitsukedasu' for high-level skill.
彼は万物の流転の中に、不変の真理を見つけようと苦闘した。
He struggled to find an unchanging truth within the flux of all things.
Highly abstract and philosophical.
その詩篇には、絶望の淵で見つけた一筋の光が描かれている。
In those psalms, a single ray of light found at the edge of despair is depicted.
Literary and emotional depth.
科学の進歩は、我々がまだ見つけていない未知の領域を広げている。
The progress of science is expanding the unknown territories we have yet to find.
Using 'mada ... te inai' for the undiscovered.
彼は他者の言動の裏にある真意を見つけることに長けている。
He excels at finding the true intention behind others' words and actions.
Describing psychological insight.
その建築家は、素材の持つ本来の美しさを見つける天才だ。
That architect is a genius at finding the inherent beauty of materials.
Aesthetic discovery.
歴史の闇に葬られた真実を見つけ出すことは、現代人の責務である。
Ferreting out the truth buried in the darkness of history is the duty of modern people.
Moral and historical weight.
彼女は数学の迷宮の中で、優雅な証明を見つけた。
She found an elegant proof within the labyrinth of mathematics.
Abstract intellectual achievement.
混沌とした情勢の中で、新たな秩序を見つけるのは至難の業だ。
Finding a new order within a chaotic situation is a Herculean task.
Social and political complexity.
常见搭配
常用短语
見つけた!
いいものを見つける
自分に合った仕事を見つける
共通点を見つける
隙を見つける
糸口を見つける
あら探しを見つける
生きがいを見つける
近道を見つける
妥協点を見つける
容易混淆的词
Intransitive version. Use this when the object 'is found' without focusing on who found it.
The process of looking. You 'sagasu' for 10 minutes, then you 'mitsukeru'.
General seeing. 'Mitsukeru' is specific to locating something you wanted or something unique.
习语与表达
"揚げ足を取る"
To find fault with someone's words; to trip someone up (related to finding mistakes).
彼はいつも人の揚げ足を取る。
Informal/Neutral"重箱の隅をつつく"
To find fault with trivial things (literally: picking at the corners of a bento box).
重箱の隅をつつくような指摘はやめてください。
Neutral"雲をつかむような"
Like trying to catch a cloud (used when something is impossible to find or grasp).
彼の計画は雲をつかむような話だ。
Neutral"砂漠で針を探す"
To look for a needle in a desert (extremely hard to find).
彼をこの人混みで見つけるのは砂漠で針を探すようなものだ。
Neutral"目から鱗が落ちる"
To find a new perspective (scales falling from one's eyes).
彼の話を聞いて、目から鱗が落ちた。
Neutral"棚からぼた餅"
Finding a lucky break without effort (like a rice cake falling from a shelf).
あの仕事は棚からぼた餅で見つけたようなものだ。
Informal"灯台下暗し"
It's hard to find what's right under your nose (the base of the lighthouse is dark).
灯台下暗しで、ペンは耳にかかっていた。
Neutral"瓢箪から駒"
Finding something unexpected and great (a horse coming out of a gourd).
瓢箪から駒で、偶然いい仕事を見つけた。
Neutral"足元を見る"
To find someone's weakness and take advantage of it (literally: looking at their feet).
足元を見られないように気をつけよう。
Neutral"鬼の首を取ったよう"
Acting as if one has found/achieved something huge (literally: like taking an ogre's head).
彼は小さな間違いを見つけると、鬼の首を取ったように喜ぶ。
Neutral容易混淆
Both mean 'to find'.
Hakken is formal/academic; mitsukeru is for daily objects.
新種を発見した vs 鍵を見つけた。
Both relate to finding.
Miataru is often used in the negative to mean 'not in sight'.
鍵が見当たらない。
Both involve finding something.
Hirou specifically means picking something up from the ground.
財布を拾った。
Both involve 'seeing' something hidden.
Minuku is for lies, secrets, or true character.
本心を見抜く。
Very similar to mitsukeru.
Emphasizes the search process more than the simple act of finding.
犯人を探し出した。
句型
[Object] を 見つけた。
猫を見つけた。
[Place] で [Object] を 見つけました。
公園で綺麗な花を見つけました。
[Object] を 見つけるのは [Adjective] です。
間違いを見つけるのは難しいです。
[Object] を 見つけてあげます。
私が鍵を見つけてあげます。
[Object] を 見つけようとしている。
彼は新しい仕事を見つけようとしている。
[Object] が 見つけられる。
その本は図書館で見つけられる。
[Abstract Object] を 見つけ出す。
真実を見つけ出す。
[Metaphorical Object] を 見出す。
絶望の中に光を見出す。
词族
名词
动词
相关
如何使用
Extremely high in daily conversation and media.
-
Using 'ga' with 'mitsukeru' for the object.
→
鍵を見つけた。
'Mitsukeru' is transitive and requires 'o'. Using 'ga' makes the object the subject of the finding.
-
Using 'mitsukeru' for the process of searching.
→
30分間探していた。
'Mitsukeru' is a momentary action of discovery. For the process, use 'sagasu'.
-
Confusing 'mitsukeru' with 'miru'.
→
珍しい鳥を見つけた。
'Miru' is just seeing. 'Mitsukeru' implies you located something specific or unique.
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Using 'mitsukeru' when 'mitsukaru' is needed.
→
いい仕事が見つかった。
If the focus is on the job being found (intransitive), use 'mitsukaru'.
-
Incorrect potential form 'mitsukeru koto ga dekiru' in casual speech.
→
見つけれる。
While 'koto ga dekiru' is correct, 'mitsukereru' is much more natural in conversation.
小贴士
Particle Choice
Always use を (o) for the object you found. If you use が (ga), you probably need to use 見つかる (mitsukaru) instead.
Compound Power
Learn 見つけ出す (mitsukedasu) to express that you worked hard to find something. It makes your Japanese sound more descriptive.
The Eureka Moment
Don't be afraid to shout 'Mitsuketa!' when you find something. It's a very natural and common exclamation in Japan.
Sagasu vs Mitsukeru
Remember that 探す (sagasu) is the search and 見つける (mitsukeru) is the find. You can't use 見つける for the duration of the search.
Finding for Others
Use 見つけてあげる (mitsukete ageru) when you find something for a friend. It shows kindness and helpfulness.
Kanji Usage
The kanji 見 is simple, but essential. Make sure you don't forget the okurigana つける.
Passive Nuance
If you hear 見つけられた (mitsukerareru), it often means someone was 'caught' doing something. Context is key!
Hide and Seek
Playing Kakurembo is a great way to practice this verb. The seeker is the 'oni' (ogre) who tries to 'mitsukeru' the others.
Identifying Problems
In meetings, use 見つける to identify issues. 'Mondaiten o mitsukeru' (To find the problem points) is a common phrase.
Online Searches
When you find a website or a link, use 見つける. It's the standard word for digital discovery as well.
记住它
记忆技巧
Think of 'Mi' (Me) and 'Tsukeru' (To stick). I stick my eyes on it! I found it!
视觉联想
Imagine a magnifying glass over a small object. The moment the object becomes clear, you've 'mitsukeru'-ed it.
Word Web
挑战
Try to find three things in your room right now and say '... o mitsuketa' for each one.
词源
The word is a compound of the verb 'mi' (stem of 'miru', to see) and 'tsukeru' (to attach/fix). It has been used since the classical Japanese period.
原始含义: To fix one's eyes upon something; to catch sight of.
Japonic文化背景
Be careful when 'finding' faults in others; Japanese culture values 'enryo' (restraint) and 'wa' (harmony).
English speakers often use 'find' for both active and passive contexts, which leads to confusion with 'mitsukaru'.
在生活中练习
真实语境
Losing something
- 鍵を見つけた。
- 財布が見つからない。
- どこで見つけたの?
- 一緒に見つけよう。
Job hunting
- 仕事を見つける。
- いい会社を見つけた。
- 自分に合った仕事を見つけたい。
- 求人サイトで見つけた。
Solving problems
- 解決策を見つける。
- 間違いを見つけた。
- 答えを見つけ出す。
- ヒントを見つけた。
Shopping
- いいものを見つけた。
- 安い店を見つける。
- プレゼントを見つけた。
- 掘り出し物を見つけた。
Socializing
- 友達を見つけた。
- 共通点を見つける。
- いいカフェを見つけた。
- 待ち合わせ場所を見つける。
对话开场白
"最近、何かいいものを見つけましたか? (Have you found anything good lately?)"
"この近くで美味しいレストランを見つけたいんですが、知っていますか? (I want to find a delicious restaurant near here; do you know any?)"
"どうやってその仕事を見つけたんですか? (How did you find that job?)"
"失くした鍵、やっと見つけたよ! (I finally found the keys I lost!)"
"間違いを見つけるのが得意な人は誰ですか? (Who is good at finding mistakes?)"
日记主题
今日、新しく見つけたことを書いてください。 (Write about something new you found today.)
あなたが今までで見つけた一番大切なものは何ですか? (What is the most important thing you have ever found?)
新しい趣味を見つけるために、何をしたいですか? (What do you want to do to find a new hobby?)
仕事や勉強で間違いを見つけた時、どうしますか? (What do you do when you find a mistake in work or study?)
将来、どんな自分を見つけたいですか? (What kind of self do you want to find in the future?)
常见问题
10 个问题'Mitsukeru' is transitive (I find it), while 'mitsukaru' is intransitive (It is found). For example, 'Kagi o mitsuketa' means 'I found the keys,' but 'Kagi ga mitsukatta' means 'The keys were found.' Use 'o' with 'mitsukeru' and 'ga' with 'mitsukaru'.
Yes, you can, but 'hakken suru' is more common and appropriate for formal or scientific discoveries. 'Mitsukeru' sounds more casual, like finding something in your daily life. For a major discovery, 'hakken' is the better choice.
You can say 'Kagi ga mitsukerarenai' (Potential negative) or 'Kagi ga miataranai' (It's not in sight). 'Kagi ga mitsukaranai' is also very common and natural. Avoid saying 'Kagi o mitsukenai' as that sounds like you are intentionally not finding them.
Yes, absolutely. You can use it when you find a friend in a crowd, find a lost child, or find a suspect in a crime. In the game of hide-and-seek, the seeker shouts 'Mitsuketa!' when they find someone.
The suffix '-dasu' adds a sense of 'bringing out' or 'ferreting out'. It implies that the thing was hidden or difficult to find and required significant effort to locate. It's more emphatic than the simple 'mitsukeru'.
Yes, 'mitsukeru' is frequently used for abstract concepts like hope (kibou), a solution (kaiketsusaku), or a reason (riyuu). It's a very versatile verb that covers both physical and mental discovery.
The standard potential form is 'mitsukerareru'. However, in casual spoken Japanese, it is very common to use the 'ra-nuki' (shortened) form, 'mitsukereru'. Both mean 'can find'.
Yes, the polite form is 'Mitsukemashita'. If you want to be even more formal, such as in a business report, you might say 'Mitsukedashimashita' or use the noun form 'Hakken itashimashita'.
You could say 'Repooto ni machigai o mitsukemashita'. To be softer, you might say 'Machigai ga gozaimashita' (There was a mistake) or 'Machigai o mitsukete shimaimashita' (I unfortunately found a mistake).
Yes, it can mean catching someone doing something wrong. For example, 'Sensei ga tabako o sutte iru seito o mitsuketa' (The teacher caught/found a student smoking). It implies the act of discovery has social consequences.
自我测试 180 个问题
Translate: I found the keys.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Translate: I want to find a new job.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Translate: Did you find the cat?
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Translate: I found a good restaurant near the station.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Translate: It is difficult to find mistakes.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Translate: I finally found the answer.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Translate: Please find my bag.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Translate: I couldn't find anything.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Translate: He found a rare book.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Translate: We found a common hobby.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Translate: I found a mistake in the report.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Translate: He ferreted out the truth.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Translate: I found hope in the dark.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Translate: Did you find anything interesting?
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Translate: I found a shortcut to the school.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Translate: He is good at finding bargains.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Translate: I will find the culprit.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Translate: I found a nice cafe.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Translate: She found her voice.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Translate: I found a way to solve it.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Say 'I found it!' in Japanese.
Read this aloud:
你说的:
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Ask 'Where did you find the keys?' in polite Japanese.
Read this aloud:
你说的:
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Say 'I want to find a job' in Japanese.
Read this aloud:
你说的:
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Say 'I found a good cafe' in casual Japanese.
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你说的:
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Say 'I can't find it' in polite Japanese.
Read this aloud:
你说的:
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Say 'Let's find the treasure' in Japanese.
Read this aloud:
你说的:
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Say 'I found a mistake' in polite Japanese.
Read this aloud:
你说的:
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Say 'I found my friend' in Japanese.
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你说的:
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Say 'I found a nice present' in Japanese.
Read this aloud:
你说的:
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Say 'I finally found the answer' in Japanese.
Read this aloud:
你说的:
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Say 'I found a cheap hotel' in Japanese.
Read this aloud:
你说的:
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Say 'I found a shortcut' in Japanese.
Read this aloud:
你说的:
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Say 'I found a rare book' in Japanese.
Read this aloud:
你说的:
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Say 'I found a common hobby' in Japanese.
Read this aloud:
你说的:
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Say 'I found hope' in Japanese.
Read this aloud:
你说的:
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Say 'I found a solution' in Japanese.
Read this aloud:
你说的:
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Say 'I found a mistake in the report' in Japanese.
Read this aloud:
你说的:
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Say 'I ferreted out the truth' in Japanese.
Read this aloud:
你说的:
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Say 'I found my identity' in Japanese.
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你说的:
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Say 'I found a ray of light' in Japanese.
Read this aloud:
你说的:
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Listen to 'Kagi o mitsuketa' and translate.
Listen to 'Doko de mitsukemashita ka?' and translate.
Listen to 'Atarashii shigoto o mitsuketai' and translate.
Listen to 'Machigai o mitsukemashita' and translate.
Listen to 'Kaiketsusaku o mitsukedasu' and translate.
Listen to 'Mitsuketa!' and translate.
Listen to 'Neko o mitsuketa' and translate.
Listen to 'Imi o mitsukeru' and translate.
Listen to 'Kibou o mitsuketa' and translate.
Listen to 'Hannin o mitsuketa' and translate.
Listen to 'Kyoutsuten o mitsukeru' and translate.
Listen to 'Chikamichi o mitsuketa' and translate.
Listen to 'Iimono o mitsuketa' and translate.
Listen to 'Kotae o mitsuketa' and translate.
Listen to 'Shudan o mitsukeru' and translate.
/ 180 correct
Perfect score!
Summary
見つける (mitsukeru) is your go-to verb for 'finding' anything in Japanese. Whether you've spotted your lost keys or discovered a life-changing hobby, this active verb captures the moment of success. Example: 私は公園で四つ葉のクローバーを見つけた (I found a four-leaf clover in the park).
- 見つける (mitsukeru) is a transitive verb meaning 'to find' or 'to discover'. It requires an active agent and the particle 'o'.
- It is an Ichidan verb, making its conjugation simple (mitsukeru -> mitsukemasu, mitsuketa, mitsukenai).
- It is the successful result of 'sagasu' (to look for) and is used for both physical objects and abstract ideas.
- It must be distinguished from the intransitive 'mitsukaru' (to be found), which focuses on the object rather than the finder.
Particle Choice
Always use を (o) for the object you found. If you use が (ga), you probably need to use 見つかる (mitsukaru) instead.
Compound Power
Learn 見つけ出す (mitsukedasu) to express that you worked hard to find something. It makes your Japanese sound more descriptive.
The Eureka Moment
Don't be afraid to shout 'Mitsuketa!' when you find something. It's a very natural and common exclamation in Japan.
Sagasu vs Mitsukeru
Remember that 探す (sagasu) is the search and 見つける (mitsukeru) is the find. You can't use 見つける for the duration of the search.
相关内容
这个词在其他语言中
更多general词汇
いくつか
B1An unspecified small number of things; some, a few.
ちょっと
A2A little; a moment; a bit. Small amount or short time.
すこし
A2A little; a few.
さっき
A2A little while ago; a short time past.
能力
A1Nouryoku refers to the mental or physical power, skill, or capacity required to perform a specific task or function. It can describe both innate talent and skills acquired through learning and practice.
異常
A1A word used to describe something that deviates from the normal state, standard, or expected pattern. It often implies a problem, malfunction, or an extraordinary occurrence that requires attention or investigation.
~について
A2用于表示谈论或思考的对象。
〜について
B1表示“关于”或“有关”的短语。
~ぐらい
A2about, approximately
ぐらい
A2About; approximately; to the extent of.