To move forward or advance, whether physically or in terms of progress.
Word in 30 Seconds
- Moving forward in a physical direction.
- Making progress on a task or project.
- Advancing or worsening in a state or condition.
類語との比較
「進む」は自動詞で「物事が進行する」という事実に焦点を当てます。一方で「進める（他動詞）」は「計画を進める」のように、誰かが意図的に物事を前へ動かす際に使います。「行く」は単なる移動を指しますが、「進む」は「前へ」「目標へ」という方向性が強調されます。
Examples
一歩ずつ前に進む。
everydayMove forward one step at a time.
プロジェクトが順調に進んでいる。
formalThe project is progressing smoothly.
時計が5分進んでいる。
informalThe clock is 5 minutes fast.
研究が大きく進んだ。
academicThe research has advanced significantly.
Common Collocations
Common Phrases
先へ進む
to go ahead
準備が進む
preparations are underway
話が進む
the conversation progresses
Often Confused With
This is the transitive form. Use it when you are the one actively moving or advancing something (e.g., I advance the project).
This is a general verb for going to a place. 'Susumu' implies a forward direction or progress, which 'iku' does not necessarily emphasize.
Grammar Patterns
How to Use It
Usage Notes
Susumu is an intransitive verb used for subjects that move forward on their own. It is neutral in register and can be used in both casual and formal business contexts. When you need to express that you are the one causing the progress, switch to the transitive verb 'susumeru'.
Common Mistakes
Learners often use 'susumu' when they mean 'susumeru' (to advance something). Remember: if the subject is the one moving, use 'susumu'. If you are moving something else, use 'susumeru'.
Tips
Use for progress and physical motion
Remember that 'susumu' covers both walking forward and making progress on a task. It is a versatile verb for any forward-moving situation.
Do not confuse with transitive form
Always use 'susumu' for the subject moving itself. Use 'susumeru' when you are the one pushing something forward.
Common in business and studies
It is frequently used in professional settings to report status updates. Using it correctly shows you can articulate progress clearly.
Word Origin
The word originates from ancient Japanese roots indicating movement towards a goal. It has historically been used to describe both physical travel and the advancement of time or events.
Cultural Context
In Japanese culture, 'susumu' is often linked to the virtue of steady effort. Moving forward without stopping is highly valued in work and education.
Memory Tip
Think of 'Susumu' as 'Soo-zoom-u'—like a car zooming forward on a road. It helps to associate the sound with forward motion.
Frequently Asked Questions
4 questions「行く」は目的地へ向かう移動そのものを指しますが、「進む」は前進することや、物事が順調に進行することに焦点が当たります。例えば、計画が順調なときは「進む」を使いますが、「行く」とは言いません。
物理的な移動の反対は「戻る」や「退く」です。物事の進行という意味では「遅れる」や「停滞する」が使われます。
いいえ、「進む」は自動詞です。他動詞として使いたい場合は「進める（物事を前へ進める）」という形に変える必要があります。
はい、「病気が進む」と言うと、症状が悪化したり進行したりすることを意味します。
Test Yourself
計画が順調に___。
計画という名詞が主語の役割を果たし、自動詞である「進む」が適切です。
Score: /1
Summary
To move forward or advance, whether physically or in terms of progress.
- Moving forward in a physical direction.
- Making progress on a task or project.
- Advancing or worsening in a state or condition.
Use for progress and physical motion
Remember that 'susumu' covers both walking forward and making progress on a task. It is a versatile verb for any forward-moving situation.
Do not confuse with transitive form
Always use 'susumu' for the subject moving itself. Use 'susumeru' when you are the one pushing something forward.
Common in business and studies
It is frequently used in professional settings to report status updates. Using it correctly shows you can articulate progress clearly.
Examples
4 of 4一歩ずつ前に進む。
Move forward one step at a time.
プロジェクトが順調に進んでいる。
The project is progressing smoothly.
時計が5分進んでいる。
The clock is 5 minutes fast.
研究が大きく進んだ。
The research has advanced significantly.
Related Content
Related Grammar Rules
Related Vocabulary
More general words
能力
A1Nouryoku refers to the mental or physical power, skill, or capacity required to perform a specific task or function. It can describe both innate talent and skills acquired through learning and practice.
異常
A1A word used to describe something that deviates from the normal state, standard, or expected pattern. It often implies a problem, malfunction, or an extraordinary occurrence that requires attention or investigation.
～について
A2About, concerning; indicates topic.
〜について
B1About, concerning; on the subject of.
～ぐらい
A2about, approximately
ぐらい
A2About; approximately; to the extent of.
ごろ
A2About, approximately (time).
うえ
A2At a higher position than.
絶対
B1Absolutely; definitely; never.
絶対に
B1Absolutely; definitely.
