How To Say “ Succeed” In Japanese: Easy Steps

Yuka

I want to congratulate my friend on their success in Japanese. What’s the best way?

Rei

成功 and 成功する are exactly what you need! There are also some great set phrases for congratulating someone. Let me walk you through it all!

成功（せいこう） means “success,” and 成功する means “to succeed.” These are essential words in Japanese conversation — whether you’re talking about personal goals, business achievements, or cheering someone on.

At a Glance

Basic Usage: 成功する

Use 成功する when something works out or someone achieves their goal:

• 試験に成功した！— I succeeded in the exam! (I passed!)
• プロジェクトが成功した。— The project was a success.
• 大成功！みんなよく頑張った。— A great success! Everyone worked hard.
• 手術が成功した。— The surgery was a success.
• ダイエットに成功した。— I succeeded in my diet.

Talking About Success in Life and Career

• 成功するために毎日努力している。— I work hard every day in order to succeed.
• 夢を実現させて成功した。— She achieved her dream and succeeded.
• ビジネスで成功したい。— I want to succeed in business.
• 成功する人には共通点がある。— Successful people have common traits.
• 彼の成功を心からおめでとう。— Congratulations from the heart on his success.

Yuka

Is 成功 only for big achievements, or can it be used for everyday small wins too?

Rei

Both! 成功 can range from landing a big deal to finally making a difficult recipe. Context makes clear how significant it is. 大成功 emphasizes an especially great outcome.

Encouraging Someone: 成功を祈る

When wishing someone success before an event, use 成功を祈る (to pray for your success) or more casual expressions:

• 成功を祈っています！— I’m wishing you success!
• うまくいくといいね。— I hope it goes well.
• 頑張ってね、成功させてね！— Do your best, make it a success!
• 成功を祈って応援しています。— I’m supporting you, wishing for your success.

成功 vs 達成 vs うまくいく

• プロジェクトが成功した。— The project succeeded.
• 目標を達成した。— I achieved my goal.
• 交渉がうまくいった。— The negotiation went well.

Quick Quiz

1. ダイエットに___した！(succeeded) → 成功
2. ___を祈っています。(wishing success) → 成功
3. 手術が___したと聞いて安心した。(was a success) → 成功
4. ___！みんなの努力のおかげだ。(great success) → 大成功

Summary

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