Translation guide
The English word "conducting" has several distinct meanings. This guide covers the most common ones for learners: leading an orchestra, managing an activity, and the physics of heat/electricity transmission. It does not cover every possible Japanese translation.
To direct a musical group using gestures
The standard verb for conducting an orchestra, choir, or band.
彼はオーケストラを指揮した。
He conducted the orchestra.
Literally 'to wave the baton', a common phrase for conducting.
指揮者がタクトを振り始めた。
The conductor started conducting.
To organize and perform a task, experiment, survey, etc.
The most common and versatile verb for 'conduct' in the sense of carrying out an activity.
実験を行った。
We conducted an experiment.
調査を行う予定です。
We plan to conduct a survey.
More formal than 行う, often used for official or planned activities.
来月、アンケートを実施します。
We will conduct a questionnaire next month.
To allow heat or electricity to pass through a material
The technical term for physical conduction.
銅は電気をよく伝導する。
Copper conducts electricity well.
A more general verb meaning 'to pass through', used in everyday contexts.
この金属は熱を通しやすい。
This metal conducts heat easily.
指揮する is only for conducting music. For managing projects or experiments, use 行う or 実施する.
行う is the general verb for 'do/conduct'. 実施する is more formal and implies a planned, often official, implementation. In many cases they are interchangeable, but 実施する can sound stiff in casual conversation.
Used for conducting ceremonies or formal events.
結婚式を執り行った。
They conducted the wedding ceremony.