Translation guide
The English phrase 'be done' can express completion, exhaustion, or a passive state. This guide covers natural Japanese equivalents for each meaning.
Expressing that something is finished or completed.
Intransitive verb meaning 'to end' or 'to be finished'. Used for events, tasks, or periods.
Expressing that someone is tired of something or has had enough.
Idiomatic phrase meaning 'I've had enough' or 'I'm done with this'. Conveys frustration or saturation.
I'm done. I quit.
Expressing that something is done by someone or something (passive voice).
Passive form of suru-verbs. Indicates that an action is done to the subject.
Avoid directly translating 'be done' as されている for completion. Use 終わる or 済む instead. されている implies an ongoing passive state, not completion.
Homework is being done. (Not 'homework is done')
仕事が終わった。
Work is done.
Is the meeting done already?
Intransitive verb meaning 'to be finished' or 'to be settled'. Often implies relief or that something is taken care of.
My homework is done.
The procedure is already done.
Suru-verb meaning 'to be completed'. More formal, often used in technical or business contexts.
The project is done.
Intransitive verb meaning 'to be completed' or 'to be ready'. Used for creations, preparations, or things being made.
The food is done.
Suru-verb meaning 'to end' or 'to be terminated'. Very formal, used for events, broadcasts, or operations.
Today's business is done.
Na-adjective meaning 'to be fed up' or 'to be sick of'. Stronger emotional tone.
I'm done with his excuses.
Short phrase meaning 'That's enough' or 'I'm done'. Can sound abrupt.
I'm done, I'm going home.
Intransitive verb meaning 'to get tired of' or 'to lose interest'. Used with に.
I'm done with this game.
This work was done by him.
Passive form of ru-verbs. Indicates that an action is done to the subject.
This painting was done by a famous artist.
Expresses having something done by someone as a favor. Implies gratitude.
I had my homework done by a friend.