Translation guide
The English phrase "setting up" covers a wide range of actions, from assembling physical objects to establishing systems, arranging events, and even framing someone. This guide breaks down the most common meanings and provides natural Japanese equivalents for each.
To put together furniture, equipment, or devices; to install something so it is ready to use.
Used for assembling things from parts, like furniture or models.
IKEAの家具を組み立てるのに3時間かかった。
It took three hours to set up the IKEA furniture.
Formal term for installing equipment or setting up facilities. Common in business or technical contexts.
新しいサーバーを設置する予定です。
We plan to set up a new server.
Loanword from English, often used for setting up electronics, software, or systems.
プリンターのセットアップを手伝ってくれませんか？
Could you help me set up the printer?
To create an organization, system, account, or rule.
Used for founding companies, organizations, or institutions.
彼は新しい会社を設立した。
He set up a new company.
A versatile verb for creating accounts, groups, rules, etc. Less formal than 設立する.
新しいメールアカウントを作りました。
I set up a new email account.
Often used for opening accounts, websites, or facilities.
銀行口座を開設するには身分証明書が必要です。
You need ID to set up a bank account.
To plan and prepare for a meeting, party, or other gathering.
General term for preparing or setting up anything, including events.
パーティーの準備はもうできた？
Have you already set up the party?
Often used for scheduling meetings or configuring settings, but can also mean setting up an event in a more formal sense.
会議を設定していただけますか？
Could you set up a meeting?
Loanword used for arranging physical setups for events, like chairs and tables.
会場のセッティングは午前中に終わります。
We'll finish setting up the venue by noon.
To adjust settings or preferences on a computer, phone, or app.
The standard verb for configuring settings.
Wi-Fiの設定を変更したいんですが。
I want to change the Wi-Fi settings.
Often used for initial setup of devices or software.
新しいスマホをセットアップ中です。
I'm setting up my new smartphone.
To make someone appear guilty of something they didn't do.
To frame someone, to set them up for a fall. Strongly negative.
彼は同僚に陥れられて、会社を辞めさせられた。
He was set up by a colleague and forced to quit the company.
Slang for setting someone up or trapping them, often in a scheme.
あいつにはめられた！
I was set up by that guy!
Literally 'to trap', can be used figuratively for setting someone up.
彼は巧妙なわなにかけられた。
He was set up in an elaborate trap.
To pitch a tent or establish a campsite.
Used specifically for pitching tents.
テントを張る場所を探そう。
Let's find a spot to set up the tent.
Formal term for setting up camp or facilities.
キャンプの設営はもう終わった？
Have you finished setting up camp?
The English phrase 'set up' is extremely broad. There is no single Japanese verb that covers all its meanings. Always choose the verb that matches the specific action.
準備する is for physical or logistical preparation (parties, trips). 設定する is for configuring settings or scheduling. Don't use 設定する for assembling furniture.