🇯🇵 How to say

“to find” in Japanese

見つけるみつける
Illustration of "to find" in a Japanese cultural setting
A person is looking through a messy drawer, pushing aside pens and old receipts. Their face lights up with a smile as they finally spot their missing house key nestled under a notepad.

Usage note

見つける is used when you discover something you were looking for or something unexpected. It's a common and neutral verb for everyday situations, like finding your phone or spotting a good cafe.

Examples

  • かぎを見つけました。

    I found my key.

  • えきでともだちを見つけました。

    I found my friend at the station.

  • このレストランはおいしいですよ。見つけてよかった。

    This restaurant is delicious. I'm glad I found it.

Quick check

What does "見つける" mean?

  • A. to find
  • B. to cook
  • C. to laugh
  • D. to open

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