Translation guide
The English verb 'carry' covers many physical and abstract meanings. In Japanese, there is no single equivalent; the best word depends on what is being carried, how, and why. This guide organizes the most useful Japanese expressions by the intended English meaning.
To hold and move something from one place to another, without specifying the method.
The most general verb for transporting objects. It focuses on moving something to a destination.
Please carry this box over there.
He carried the luggage to the car.
Literally 'take and go', used when you carry something to another place. Emphasizes the action of taking it along.
I'll carry an umbrella (with me).
Combines 'hold' and 'transport', often used for portable items or the act of carrying around.
This laptop is light and easy to carry around.
To support something with your hands or arms while moving.
To hold or carry in the hand. Very common.
Could you carry this bag for me?
To carry something bulky or heavy in one's arms, often against the chest.
To carry in one's arms, especially a child or something cherished. Can also mean 'hug'.
To transport something by supporting it on your back or shoulder.
To transport a person by supporting their weight.
To carry someone on your back, typically a child.
I carried the tired child on my back.
To carry someone in your arms, usually a child. Casual.
Carry the baby in your arms.
Can be used for transporting an injured person, often with assistance.
To be a carrier of a disease or genetic trait without necessarily showing symptoms.
To convey or have a particular meaning, nuance, or consequence.
To perform or complete an action, duty, or instruction.
To continue doing something, often despite difficulties.
運ぶ (hakobu) focuses on the transportation itself, often to a specific destination. 持っていく (motte iku) emphasizes taking something along with you. Use 運ぶ for moving furniture, boxes, etc. Use 持っていく for personal items you bring with you.
I carried the desk to the next room.
I'll carry my passport (with me).
The loanword キャリー (kyarii) is not commonly used for physical carrying. It appears in golf (carry distance) or computing (carry flag), but for everyday 'carry', use the Japanese verbs above.
Could you carry my bag?
She carried the child on her back.
This word carries a negative nuance.
彼女は大きな箱を抱えていた。
She was carrying a big box in her arms.
The mother was carrying her baby in her arms.
He was carrying a big bag on his shoulder.
They carried the injured person to the hospital.
この決定にはリスクが伴う。
This decision carries risks.