“To do” in Japanese is する, pronounced suru.
Pronunciation
The word has 2 beats (morae), each about the same length. Tap a syllable to hear it, or play the whole word:
How to use it
The most versatile verb in Japanese. Combine it with nouns to make new verbs: 勉強する (study), 料理する (cook).
Example sentences
- 週末は何をしますか。しゅうまつはなにをしますか。What do you do at the weekend?
- 宿題をしました。しゅくだいをしました。I did my homework.
Conjugation
The most useful forms of する. The rules are explained in Japanese verbs: the ます form.
| Form | Japanese | Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| Dictionary (plain) | する | do |
| Polite present | します | do |
| Polite negative | しません | don’t do |
| Polite past | しました | past of “do” |
| Plain negative (ない) | しない | don’t do (casual) |
| Plain past (た) | した | past of “do” (casual) |
| て-form | して | do and… / please do (+ください) |
| Want to (たい) | したい | want to do |
Quick practice
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Which word means “to work”?
Related words: Everyday verbs
FAQ
How do you say to do in Japanese?
To do in Japanese is する, pronounced “suru”.
Is する on the JLPT?
Yes. する (suru) is a common word at JLPT N5 level, so it's worth learning early.