Translation guide
How to express the action of pressing something downward in Japanese, depending on what is being pressed and the context.
To apply pressure from above to push something down, such as a button, lid, or object.
The most common verb for 'press' or 'push'. When combined with directional words like 下に or 下へ, it means 'press down'. Often used alone when context makes the direction clear.
Please press the button.
Please press the lid down from above to close it.
Means 'to hold down' or 'to press and keep in place'. Implies continuous pressure to prevent movement.
Please hold the paper down so it doesn't blow away.
Literally 'push down'. A compound verb that explicitly means to press something downward. More formal or technical.
Please push the lever down.
To compress, flatten, or force something downward using body weight or heavy pressure.
To press a button, key, or switch downward, often with a finger.
To suppress feelings, urges, or opposition.
押す (osu) is a simple push or press, often momentary. 押さえる (osaeru) implies holding down with continuous pressure to keep something in place.
In many cases, the direction 'down' is understood from context, so you don't need to add 下に or use a compound verb. For example, 'press the button' is simply ボタンを押す.
To pin down or hold down with force, often against a surface. Can be physical or metaphorical.
He pinned his opponent down to the floor.
カードを奥まで押し込んでください。
Please push the card all the way in.
The government tried to suppress dissenting opinions.