ておく
JLPT Level: N4
Meanings
do something in advance
prepare for future needs
leave something in a ready state for later
Usage
V-ておく
Explanation
The ておく form expresses doing something now to prepare for a future situation or to have things ready later. It often indicates intentional preparation or setting things up in advance, sometimes with a sense of convenience or foresight. It can also imply that the action is done for someone else or as a precaution, and the result will be useful later. This is commonly used for routine preparations, arrangements, or ensuring a smooth future outcome.
出かける前に鍵をかけておく。
でかけるまえにかぎをかけておく。
I’ll lock the door before I go out.
明日使う資料は今のうちに揃えておく。
あしたつかうしりょうはいまのうちにそろえておく。
I’ll gather the materials I’ll use tomorrow in advance.
来週の会議の準備をしておく。
らいしゅうのかいぎのじゅんびをしておく。
I’ll take care of the preparations for next week’s meeting.
彼は早めに返信を書いておく。
かれははやめにへんしんをかいておく。
He will write back in advance.