Synonym Nuance VS
How to say "Do" in Japanese
Both words can translate to "do", but which should you choose?
Japanese Option A
致す
いたす (itasu)
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 致す and 行う.
In Japanese, 致す (いたす (itasu)) is typically associated with "to do (humble form of する)" (Syllabus Level: N4) and represents A very humble verb used for one's own actions. It's the humble equivalent of する.
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 "致す"
明日、私がご説明致します。
I will explain it tomorrow (humble).
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: "明日、私がご説明致します。" (Meaning: "I will explain it tomorrow (humble).")
🎉 Correct Answer!
Remember: "致す" fits here because it means "to do (humble form of する)" in the context of: "I will explain it tomorrow (humble).". "行う" represents "to do, to conduct, to carry out, to perform".