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行う
okonau
to do
会議は来週行われます。
The meeting will be held next week.
formal
To carry out or perform an action, event, or process.
彼らは研究を続けて行った。
They continued to carry out their research.
この式典は毎年行われます。
This ceremony is held every year.
Used in formal contexts such as ceremonies, official events, or planned actions. Often implies a sense of organization or formality.
formal
To act or behave in a certain way.
彼は公平に行動した。
He acted fairly.
Less common than the first definition but still formal.
Related Phrases
Pro Tip
Formal vs. Casual
Use 行う when describing formal events like ceremonies, meetings, or official actions. For casual actions, use する (e.g., '宿題をする' for 'to do homework').
Gold Rule
When to use 行う
行う is ideal for planned, organized, or official actions. If the action is spontaneous or informal, する is more appropriate.
Word Origin
From classical Japanese verb 'okonu' (行う), with the kanji '行' meaning 'to go' or 'to proceed' and 'う' as an auxiliary verb indicating action. The verb has been used in formal contexts since ancient times.
Usage Notes
行う is more formal than する (to do) and is often used in written Japanese or formal speech. It is commonly seen in announcements, news reports, and official documents. In casual speech, する is preferred.
Word Breakdown
行
to go, to proceed, act
rootう
auxiliary verb indicating action
suffix和英辞典