Translation guide
In Japanese, the concept of downloading is most commonly expressed using the loanword ダウンロード, but native verbs and phrases are also used depending on context.
To transfer data from a remote system to a local device, typically from the internet.
The most common and direct equivalent. Used as a noun or a suru-verb (ダウンロードする). Suitable for most contexts, including casual and technical.
Please download this app.
The file download is taking time.
Literally 'to drop', but commonly used in casual/IT contexts to mean 'download'. Often used with ファイル or データ. More colloquial than ダウンロードする.
Can I download that file?
I downloaded yesterday's video.
The verb form of ダウンロード. Used exactly like the noun but as a verb. Interchangeable with ダウンロード in many cases.
I downloaded new software.
Means 'to import' or 'to take in'. Can be used for downloading data into a system, especially when emphasizing integration or capture. More formal or technical.
Import/download data into the system.
To obtain a file or data from a particular website, server, or service.
Pattern: [source] からダウンロードする. The particle から indicates the source. Very natural and common.
You can download it from the official site.
Please download this file from the server.
Pattern: [platform/device] でダウンロードする. で marks the means or location of downloading.
I downloaded it on my smartphone.
To save a file from the internet onto your own device.
Means 'to save'. Often used when the focus is on keeping a copy locally. Can be used alongside ダウンロード or on its own.
Right-click the image and save it.
I saved the downloaded file to the desktop.
ダウンロード is the standard, neutral term. 落とす is very common in casual speech among tech-savvy people but may sound slangy in formal settings. Use ダウンロード for business or official contexts.
Can you download this file for me? (casual)
I will download the materials. (formal)
While 落とす can mean 'download', its primary meaning is 'to drop (something)'. Using it in a non-IT context will cause confusion. Only use it when the context clearly indicates digital files.
I downloaded the movie last night.
Please download the attachment.