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Synonym Nuance VS

How to say "Do" in Japanese

Both words can translate to "do", but which should you choose?

Japanese Option A

洗濯する

せんたくする (sentaku suru)
N4 / CEFR Syllabus
VS
Japanese Option B

行う

おこなう (okonau)
N4 / CEFR Syllabus

Nuance Contrast & Translation Difference

When translating "do" into Japanese, you must choose carefully between 洗濯する and 行う. In Japanese, 洗濯する (せんたくする (sentaku suru)) is typically associated with "to do laundry" (Syllabus Level: N4) and represents 服や布を洗ってきれいにすること。. On the other hand, 行う (おこなう (okonau)) maps to "to do, to conduct, to carry out, to perform" (Syllabus Level: N4) and represents More formal than する. Typically used for conducting events, ceremonies, research, or official procedures.. A literal translation of "do" can often sound unnatural to native Japanese speakers if mixed up!
Bilingual Context for "洗濯する"
週末に洗濯をします。
I do laundry on the weekend.
Bilingual Context for "行う"
今日は会議が行われる予定だ。
A meeting is scheduled to be held today.

Nuance Mastery Quiz

Which Japanese word perfectly fits this blank space?

Fill in the blank: "週末に洗濯をします。" (Meaning: "I do laundry on the weekend.")
🎉 Correct Answer!

Remember: "洗濯する" fits here because it means "to do laundry" in the context of: "I do laundry on the weekend.". "行う" represents "to do, to conduct, to carry out, to perform".