Translation and Meaning of: 為る - suru

The Japanese word 為る[する] is one of the most essential and versatile verbs in the language. If you are learning Japanese, you have probably encountered it numerous times, whether in everyday phrases or in more complex grammatical structures. In this article, we will explore its meaning, origin, and practical uses, as well as curiosities that make this word so fascinating.

In the Suki Nihongo dictionary, 為る[する] is often translated as "to do," but its application goes far beyond that. It appears in idiomatic expressions, verbal formations, and even in abstract contexts. Understanding how and when to use it is an important step in mastering Japanese.

Meaning and uses of 為る [する]

The verb 為る [する] has a broad meaning that varies depending on the context. In its most basic form, it means "to do" or "to perform," but it can also be used to describe intangible actions, such as "to study" (勉強する) or "to work" (仕事する). Its flexibility allows it to combine with nouns to create compound verbs, a unique feature of Japanese.

Additionally, 為る[する] is often used in more advanced grammatical constructions, such as the potential form (できる) or the expression of an attempt (しようとする). Its presence is so common that many students consider it one of the pillars of the language. Mastering its different uses is essential for fluent communication.

Origin and writing of the kanji 為

The kanji 為 has an interesting history. Originally, it represented the idea of "intentional action" or "purpose," combining the radicals for "hand" (扌) and "fire" (灬), symbolizing a hand performing something with energy. Over time, its meaning evolved to encompass more abstract concepts, such as "cause" or "benefit."

It is worth noting that, although 為る[する] is often written in hiragana (する), the kanji 為 appears in compound words such as 行為 (action) or 為替 (exchange). This duality between kanji and hiragana writing is common in Japanese verbs and reflects the natural evolution of the language.

Trivia and memorization tips

One interesting fact about 為る[する] is its high frequency in spoken Japanese. Linguistic studies show that it is among the 50 most used verbs in everyday life, appearing in about 10% of informal conversations. This makes it an essential word for anyone looking to communicate naturally.

To memorize it more easily, one tip is to associate it with concrete actions from daily life. Phrases like "宿題をする" (do homework) or "料理する" (cook) help to reinforce its use in real contexts. Another strategy is to practice its conjugation, as it follows an irregular pattern that deserves special attention.

Vocabulary

Expand your vocabulary with related words:

Verb conjugation of 為る

• 為るい: Dictionary form
• 為ります: Polite way
• 為れる: Potential Form
• 為りたい: form of desire
• 為って: form yourself imperative
• 為った: Past form

Synonyms and similar words

• する (suru) - make
• 致す (itasu) - do (humble form)
• 行う (okonau) - Execute, perform
• 為す (nasu) - to do, to carry out (more formal)
• 為る (naru) - to become, to be (less common)
• 為になす (nani ni nasu) - to do for (some purpose)
• 為すべき (nasubeki) - must do, what must be done
• 為せる限り (naseru kagiri) - as far as it is possible to do
• 為さる (nasaru) - do (respectful)
• 為せば成る (naseba naru) - if you do, it happens
• 為す術 (nasu sube) - ways to do, available methods
• 為す手段 (nasu shudai) - ways of doing, approaches
• 為す方法 (nasu houhou) - methods of doing
• 為す道 (nasu michi) - path to make
• 為す方策 (nasu housaku) - strategies to do
• 為すべきこと (nasubeki koto) - things that need to be done
• 為すべき行動 (nasubeki koudou) - actions that must be taken
• 為すべき手続き (nasubeki tetsuzuki) - procedures that must be carried out
• 為すべき対策 (nasubeki taisaku) - measures that should be taken
• 為すべき施策 (nasubeki shisaku) - policies that should be implemented

為る

Romaji: suru
Kana: する
Type: verb
L: jlpt-n3, jlpt-n5

Translation / Meaning: to do; to try; to play; to practice; to cost; serve as

Meaning in English: to do;to try;to play;to practice;to cost;to serve as;to pass;to elapse

Definition: do something