起動する
kidō suru
The English phrase 'activate' can be translated into Japanese as 起動する (kidō suru).
The term 起動する is primarily used in technical contexts, such as starting up a computer, a software program or a mechanical engine. Depending on the specific nuance of 'activate', other forms may be more appropriate, such as 作動させる for making something operational in formal settings or 発動する for the act of activating a device, mechanism or function in formal contexts.
Meaning: to put into operation (verb)
Which one should you use?
While 起動する refers to the startup of a system or machine, it is not used for 'activating' a person's skills or a social movement. For those, different verbs like 活性化する are used.
How does it change in a sentence?
The noun form of the verb is 起動 (kidō), which can be used in compound words or as a standalone noun meaning 'startup' or 'activation'. Adding 中 (chū) to the noun form creates 起動中 (kidō-chū), which is commonly seen on screens to indicate that a system is currently in the process of starting up.
How do you pronounce it?
kidō suru
Did you know?
- The word 活性化 used for activating a social movement is a direct loan of the concept of 'activation' from chemistry, referring to the increase of reaction rates.
- The character 起 in 起動する means 'to wake up' or 'to rise', treating the act of activating a machine as if it were waking from sleep.
- In Japanese pop culture, especially in anime, the term 発動 is often used when a character activates a special power or a magical ability.
Examples in context
- システムを起動する。shisutemu o kidō suru.To activate the system.
- 新しいプログラムを起動する。atarashii puroguramu o kidō suru.Activate the new program.
Example conversation
Kenta is helping Yui with a computer task.
- 結衣 Yuiこのアプリを起動するボタンはどこですか？kono apuri o kidō suru botan wa doko desu ka?Where is the button to activate this app?
- 健太 Kenta画面の右上にありますよ。gamen no migi ue ni arimasu yo.It is in the top right of the screen.
- 結衣 Yuiあ、見つけました。ありがとうございます。a, mitsukemashita. arigatō gozaimasu.Ah, I found it. Thank you.
- 健太 Kentaいえ、どういたしまして。ie, dōitashimashite.No problem, you're welcome.
