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.
彼は今、宿題をしている。
He is doing his homework now.
何をしているの？
What are you doing?
Emphasizes that the action is happening right at this moment. Similar to 'in the middle of doing'.
今、出かけているところです。
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.
料理をすることは楽しい。
Doing the cooking is fun.
毎日運動をすることが大切だ。
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.
彼が走っているのを見た。
I saw him doing a run.
Referring to 'doings' as accomplishments, activities, or behavior.
Means 'action' or 'behavior'. Suitable for talking about what someone does or their conduct.
彼の行動は理解できない。
I can't understand his doings.
Refers to deeds or acts, often with a moral or ethical nuance. More formal/literary.
Means 'doing' in the sense of a deed, often with a negative connotation (misdeed). Used in phrases like 'the work of someone'.
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.
お仕事は何をしているんですか？
What do you do for work?
Can also indicate habitual actions or occupations, not just ongoing actions.
私は東京で教師をしている。
I am doing teaching in Tokyo.
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.
料理をすること
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.
善い行いを心がけなさい。
Try to do good deeds.
Whose doing is this?