Ways to say it
| Japanese | Romanization (Wiktionary) |
|---|---|
| 変形する | henkei suru |
| 変換する | henkan suru |
The term transform can be translated in several ways depending on whether you are changing a physical shape, converting data or undergoing a profound metamorphosis. While 変形する is used for physical changes, 変換する is used for data or states and 変貌する describes a profound transformation. For the specific biological process of metamorphosis, use 変態する.
What does it mean word for word?
The word 変形 (henkei) is composed of the kanji 変 meaning change and 形 meaning shape or form.
Which one should you use?
Use 変形する (henkei suru) when the transformation refers to a change in physical shape, form or structure. Use 変換する (henkan suru) when the transformation refers to converting data, formats, units or changing one state into another, such as converting currency or file types.
Related words
How does it change in a sentence?
The past tense of 変形する is 変形した (henkei shita). To express the desire to make something transform or change shape, use the causative desire form 変形させたい (henkei sasetai).
How do you pronounce it?
henkei suru
Did you know?
- The word for metamorphosis, 変態する (hentai suru), has become a common slang term for 'pervert' or 'abnormal sexual desire'. Using it outside of a biology textbook can lead to significant social awkwardness.
- In the context of Japanese magic or illusions, the word 変身する (henshin suru) is frequently used to describe a person transforming into a different form, such as a superhero or a magical girl.
- The kanji for 'change' in 変形 (henkei), which is 変, is the same character used in the word for 'strange' or 'unusual' (変), implying that a transformation is something inherently out of the ordinary.
Examples in context
- キャラクターが変身しますThe character transforms.
- あのキャラクターは時々変身するんだThat character transforms sometimes.
- このおもちゃはロボットに変わるんだよThis toy transforms into a robot, you know!
- 毛虫が蝶に変態するThe caterpillar transforms into a butterfly.
- 都市が賑やかな大都会に変貌したThe city transformed into a bustling metropolis.
- ロボットが変形する。Robotto ga henkei suru.The robot transforms.
- 折り紙が複雑な形に変形する。Origami ga fukuzatsu na katachi ni henkei suru.The origami transforms into a complex shape.
- 粘土が変形する様子を観察する。Nendo ga henkei suru yōsu o kansatsu suru.Observe how the clay transforms.
Example conversation
Yota and Misaki are playing with a toy robot.
- 陽太 Yota見て、このおもちゃは飛行機に変形するよ。mite, kono omocha wa hikouki ni henkei suru yo.Look, this toy transforms into a plane.
- 美咲 Misaki本当だ！すごいね、陽太。hontou da! sugoi ne, youta.You're right! That's amazing, Yota.
- 陽太 Yotaボタンを押すとすぐに変形するんだ。botan o osu to sugu ni henkei surun da.It transforms immediately when you press the button.
- 美咲 Misaki私もやってみたい！watashi mo yatte mitai!I want to try it too!
Sources
- Wiktionary, “transform” translations, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
