Translation guide
The English word "conducting" has several distinct meanings. This guide covers the most common ones for learners: leading an orchestra, managing an activity, and the physics of heat/electricity transmission. It does not cover every possible Japanese translation.
To direct a musical group using gestures
The standard verb for conducting an orchestra, choir, or band.
He conducted the orchestra.
Literally 'to wave the baton', a common phrase for conducting.
The conductor started conducting.
To organize and perform a task, experiment, survey, etc.
The most common and versatile verb for 'conduct' in the sense of carrying out an activity.
We conducted an experiment.
More formal than 行う, often used for official or planned activities.
We will conduct a questionnaire next month.
To allow heat or electricity to pass through a material
指揮する is only for conducting music. For managing projects or experiments, use 行う or 実施する.
行う is the general verb for 'do/conduct'. 実施する is more formal and implies a planned, often official, implementation. In many cases they are interchangeable, but 実施する can sound stiff in casual conversation.
We plan to conduct a survey.
Used for conducting ceremonies or formal events.
They conducted the wedding ceremony.
This metal conducts heat easily.