為る

する

to do, to attempt

JLPT N3

Character Breakdown

Understanding 為る (する)

The verb 為る (する) is one of the most fundamental verbs in Japanese, meaning "to do" or "to perform an action." It is used in countless expressions and is essential for daily conversation.

Usage and Nuances

While 為る is the classical kanji form, it is almost always written in hiragana as する in modern Japanese. It can express a wide range of actions, from simple tasks like "doing homework" to more abstract concepts like "making a decision."

Common Collocations

  • 宿題をする: to do homework
  • 勉強をする: to study
  • 運動をする: to exercise
  • 決めるためにする: to do in order to decide

These collocations show how する pairs with nouns to form verbs indicating various actions.

Register and Politeness

する is neutral and can be used in both casual and polite speech. In polite contexts, it often appears as します.

Common Mistakes

Learners sometimes confuse する with other verbs meaning "to become" or "to make." Remember, する specifically means "to do" or "to perform an action." When expressing "to become," verbs like なる are used instead.

Example Sentences

しゅくだいをするのをわすれないでください。

Please don't forget to do your homework.

かれはいしゃになるためにいっしょうけんめいべんきょうしている。

He is studying hard to become a doctor.

なにをするかきめてください。

Please decide what to do.