作る

つくる

to make, to create

JLPT N5

Character Breakdown

Usage of

The verb る (つくる) means "to make" or "to create" and is used in many contexts involving producing or constructing something tangible or intangible. It can refer to cooking food, manufacturing products, creating software, or even forming relationships.

Common Collocations

  • る: to make a lunchbox, often used in daily life.
  • る: to create jobs or work, used in business contexts.
  • る: to manufacture in a factory, common in industrial settings.

Nuances and Usage Notes

る is a versatile verb that emphasizes the act of producing or constructing something. It is different from する (to work on a task) or する (to prepare or draft documents), which are more formal or specific. る is often used in casual and formal speech alike.

Common Confusion

Do not confuse る with れる (potential form) meaning "can make" or (way of making). Also, る focuses on the creation process, while る (also read つくる) is used for building large structures or ships, which is less common in everyday conversation.

Example Sentences

My mother makes a lunchbox every morning.

He works making new apps.

This factory makes cars.