Translation guide
The English word 'creating' refers to the act of bringing something into existence, often through imagination, skill, or effort. In Japanese, the most natural translation depends on what is being created and the context. This guide covers common verbs and expressions for making, building, producing, and establishing things.
To create a physical object, artwork, or product through effort or skill.
The most general verb for 'make' or 'create'. Used for a wide range of tangible things: food, furniture, art, etc.
He created a chair out of wood.
I'm making dinner.
Used for creating works of art, films, or other creative productions. More formal than 作る.
She is producing a new film.
Often used for creating documents, plans, or digital content. Suggests a systematic process.
I created the report.
To create an idea, system, organization, or something that didn't exist before.
Implies originality and imagination. Used for artistic creation, innovation, or divine creation.
Artists create new worlds.
Literally 'give birth to', used for bringing forth new ideas, products, or value through effort.
Similar to 生み出す, emphasizes the act of creating something new and valuable.
To create an institution, company, law, or formal structure.
To create a problem, opportunity, atmosphere, or state.
Can be used for creating situations, atmospheres, or conditions, often with a nuance of bringing about intentionally.
He always creates problems.
Means 'bring about' or 'result in'. Used when an action creates a certain outcome, often unintentionally.
作る (tsukuru) is the everyday verb for making physical things. 創造する (souzou suru) is reserved for creative or original acts, often artistic or divine. Using 創造する for making dinner would sound overly dramatic.
to create dinner (sounds unnatural)
The loanword クリエイトする (kurieito suru) exists but is mainly used in marketing or creative industry contexts. In normal speech, it can sound like jargon. Stick to native Japanese verbs unless you're in a specific creative field.
彼は革新的な技術を生み出した。
He created an innovative technology.
To create a new culture.
Let's create a good atmosphere.
その政策は混乱をもたらした。
The policy created confusion.