Translation guide
The English phrase "can do" is used to express ability, possibility, or willingness. In Japanese, this concept is expressed through various grammar patterns and phrases depending on the context.
I can do it.
Most direct translation, using potential form of する.
To say that someone is able to do something, or that something is possible.
The most common way to express ability. Verbs are conjugated into their potential form. For ru-verbs, replace る with られる. For u-verbs, change the final vowel to its え equivalent and add る. Irregular verbs: する → できる, くる → こられる.
I can speak Japanese.
He can swim.
The verb できる means 'can do' or 'be able to do'. It is often used with nouns or the particle が to indicate what one can do. It is the potential form of する.
A more formal or written way to express ability. It uses the dictionary form of a verb plus ことができる. It is often interchangeable with the potential form.
He can play the piano.
Used to express a change in ability over time, meaning 'become able to do'. It emphasizes the process of acquiring a skill.
I have become able to speak Japanese.
To say that something is allowed or permitted.
A common way to ask for or give permission. It literally means 'it's good even if you do...'. Often used with ですか for polite questions.
To say that something is possible or can happen.
Used to express strong expectation or logical conclusion that something is possible. It means 'should be able to' or 'ought to be able to'.
He should be able to do it.
To express a positive, proactive attitude of being willing and able to do something.
Literally 'have motivation', this phrase conveys a can-do spirit. It is often used to describe someone who is eager and ready to take on tasks.
Used as a casual reply meaning 'Yes, I can do it' or 'Sure, no problem'.
Literally 'leave it to me', this is a very common casual way to say 'I can handle it' or 'I've got this'.
Leave it to me! (I can do it!)
The English phrase 'can-do' as an adjective (e.g., 'a can-do attitude') does not have a direct one-word Japanese equivalent. Use phrases like やる気がある or 前向き instead.
She has a very can-do attitude.
The potential form is more common in everyday speech. is slightly more formal and often used in writing or formal speech. Both are correct and often interchangeable.
Can you do me a favor?
This is a natural way to ask for a favor, not a direct translation of 'can do'.
料理ができますか？
Can you cook?
He can drive.
Can I sit here?
You can take photos.
A slightly more formal or polite way to give permission, meaning 'I don't mind if you do...'. It implies that the action is acceptable.
Do you mind if I smoke?
A more formal expression meaning 'there is a possibility of doing'. It is used in written or formal contexts.
There is a possibility of success.
He has a can-do attitude.
Means 'forward-looking' or 'positive'. It describes a proactive, can-do mindset.
Let's think positively (with a can-do attitude).
Means 'roger' or 'understood'. It is a casual way to acknowledge a request and imply you can do it.
Got it! (Can do!)
He can swim. (casual)
He can swim. (more formal)
I can do without it.
Expresses that something is not necessary.