Translation guide
The English word 'doing' is most often used as the present participle of 'do', referring to an action in progress. In Japanese, this is typically expressed with the ている form of a verb. When 'doing' is used as a noun meaning 'action' or 'activity', it can be translated with words like すること or 行動. This guide covers the main ways to express these concepts naturally.
Expressing that someone is currently performing an action (present continuous).
The standard way to say 'is doing' in Japanese. Attach ている to the て-form of a verb. For ongoing actions, use this pattern.
He is doing his homework now.
What are you doing?
Emphasizes that the action is happening right at this moment. Similar to 'in the middle of doing'.
I'm just going out now.
Referring to the act of doing something as a concept or topic.
Nominalizes a verb, turning 'doing X' into a noun phrase. Used for general statements or abstract actions.
Doing the cooking is fun.
Referring to 'doings' as accomplishments, activities, or behavior.
Means 'action' or 'behavior'. Suitable for talking about what someone does or their conduct.
Asking or stating what someone does for a living or as an activity.
The most common way to ask 'What do you do?' or 'What are you doing?'. Context distinguishes between job and current activity.
English uses 'doing' as a gerund or participle, but Japanese does not have a direct equivalent. Always use the appropriate verb form or nominalization pattern.
doing the cooking
Both turn verbs into nouns, but こと is more abstract and general, while の is often used for immediate, sensory, or concrete experiences. こと is safer for beginners.
Doing exercise every day is important.
Also nominalizes a verb, but often used for more concrete, specific instances or when the action is directly perceived. Slightly more colloquial than こと.
I saw him doing a run.
I can't understand his doings.
Refers to deeds or acts, often with a moral or ethical nuance. More formal/literary.
Try to do good deeds.
Means 'doing' in the sense of a deed, often with a negative connotation (misdeed). Used in phrases like 'the work of someone'.
Whose doing is this?
What do you do for work?
Can also indicate habitual actions or occupations, not just ongoing actions.
I am doing teaching in Tokyo.
泳ぐことが好きだ。
I like doing swimming. (general)
I saw him doing swimming. (specific event)