Translation guide
The English word "undertaking" can refer to a task or project, a formal promise, or the business of preparing the dead for burial. This guide covers natural Japanese expressions for each meaning.
Referring to a significant or difficult task, project, or venture that someone takes on.
Common word for a project, enterprise, or undertaking, often used in business or public contexts.
A formal pledge or guarantee, often in legal or official contexts.
The business of preparing the dead for burial or cremation and arranging funerals.
The funeral business or undertaking profession.
彼は葬儀業を営んでいる。
He runs an undertaking business.
English 'undertaking' is often used abstractly. In Japanese, it's more natural to specify the type of task (事業, 取り組み, etc.) rather than using a single catch-all word.
この事業は多くの資金を必要とする。
This undertaking requires a lot of funding.
An undertaking with a sense of planning or scheming; can be neutral or slightly negative (scheme).
彼の新しい企ては成功しそうだ。
His new undertaking seems likely to succeed.
An undertaking in the sense of an effort or initiative, often used for tackling problems or challenges.
環境保護への取り組みが重要だ。
Undertakings for environmental protection are important.
Literally 'big job', used informally for a major undertaking or task.
家の改装は大仕事だった。
Renovating the house was a big undertaking.
General word for promise; can be used for undertakings in less formal contexts.
彼は時間通りに来ると約束した。
He gave an undertaking to come on time.
A formal written pledge or covenant, often used in legal or official documents.
秘密保持の誓約書に署名した。
I signed a written undertaking of confidentiality.
A firm promise or assurance, often used in business to confirm an agreement.
納期の確約をいただけますか。
Can we get a firm undertaking on the delivery date?
Guarantee or warranty; can be used when the undertaking involves assuring a certain outcome.
品質を保証する undertaking を提出した。
They submitted an undertaking guaranteeing quality.
A funeral home or undertaker's establishment.
地元の葬儀社に連絡した。
I contacted the local undertaking firm.