Translation guide
The English verb "perform" covers several distinct meanings: carrying out a task or duty, presenting entertainment on stage, functioning or achieving results, and conducting a ceremony. Japanese uses different verbs for each of these situations.
To do something that has been planned, assigned, or required, such as a job, experiment, or operation.
The most common and general verb for performing an action, task, ceremony, or event. Suitable for both formal and neutral contexts.
Emphasizes carrying out a plan, decision, or program. Often used for executing a plan or implementing a policy.
To put a plan into action (perform the plan).
Formal term for accomplishing or carrying out a duty, mission, or task, often with a sense of completion.
To perform one's duty.
To act, sing, dance, play music, or otherwise entertain an audience.
To perform a role in a play, film, or show; to act. Also used for playing a part in a story or pretending.
He performed Hamlet.
Specifically for performing music on an instrument.
To perform on the piano.
To stage or perform a play, opera, or other theatrical work. Focuses on the production as a whole.
To perform a new play.
To perform or show one's skill publicly, often for the first time or at a special event. Can be used for music, dance, or demonstrations.
She performed a song.
Loanword from English, used for artistic or street performances. Casual and modern.
They performed on the street.
To work in a particular way or to achieve a certain level of success, often used for machines, systems, or people.
To function or operate as intended. Used for machines, systems, or abstract things.
This machine is performing normally.
To demonstrate or exhibit one's performance capability, often used for vehicles, computers, or athletes.
To achieve results or a record, often in business, sports, or academics.
To operate or move, specifically for mechanical or electronic devices.
The robot performs smoothly.
To carry out a formal event such as a wedding, funeral, or religious rite.
The direct loanword パフォームする is rarely used and sounds unnatural. Use the appropriate Japanese verb based on context.
He performed a song. (unnatural)
He performed a song. (natural)
行う is the general verb for performing any action or event. 実行する emphasizes the execution of a plan or decision. Use 行う for most situations; use 実行する when highlighting the transition from plan to action.
The doctor performed the operation successfully.
She performed a beautiful dance.
How did the new software perform?
This car performs best on the highway.
He performed well in sales.
葬儀を行う。
To perform a funeral.