Translation guide
To carry something with you as you move around, often habitually or for convenience. Japanese uses different verbs depending on the manner of carrying and the type of object.
To have something with you, typically in a bag, pocket, or hand, as you go about daily activities.
The most common and general verb for carrying something around with you. It implies taking an object along as you move from place to place.
いつも水筒を持ち歩いている。
I always carry a water bottle around.
パスポートは常に持ち歩いたほうがいい。
You should always carry your passport with you.
A more formal term, often used for electronic devices or items you carry for convenience. It can sound slightly stiff in casual conversation.
スマートフォンを携帯する人が増えている。
More and more people carry smartphones.
Literally 'attach to one's body', used for wearing accessories or carrying small items on your person (e.g., a lucky charm). Not for large objects.
お守りをいつも身につけている。
I always carry a lucky charm on me.
To physically hold and transport something while walking, often for a short distance.
To carry something in your arms while walking, often a bulky or heavy item.
彼は大きな箱を抱えて歩いていた。
He was walking around carrying a big box.
A simple combination of 'hold' and 'walk', used for carrying something in your hand as you move.
傘を持って歩く。
Walk around carrying an umbrella.
To always have a particular item with you as part of your routine or identity.
Adding 'itsumo' emphasizes the habitual nature of carrying something around.
彼はいつもノートパソコンを持ち歩いている。
He always carries his laptop around.
Formal version of 'always carry', often used in written instructions or official contexts.
身分証明書を常に携帯してください。
Please carry your ID at all times.
持ち歩く (mochiaruku) means to carry around habitually or while moving about. 持っていく (motte iku) means to take something to a specific destination. Use 持ち歩く for 'carry about' and 持っていく for 'bring/take'.
水筒を持ち歩く。
Carry a water bottle around.
水筒を学校に持っていく。
Take a water bottle to school.