撫でる
naderu[na̠de̞ɾɯ̟]
The English phrase 'pat' can be translated into Japanese as 撫でる (naderu). If unsure, use 撫でる. Wiktionary also lists 摩する (sasuru).
Meaning: to tap gently (verb)
Ways to say it
| Japanese | Romanization (Wiktionary) | IPA |
|---|---|---|
| 撫でる | naderu | [na̠de̞ɾɯ̟] (narrow) |
| 摩する | sasuru |
The word 撫でる is used for gentle and affectionate patting.
Which one should you use?
While 撫でる is more commonly used for the continuous action of stroking or petting something rather than a single quick tap, the verb たたく can be used informally to convey the idea of patting or tapping. However, たたく implies a slightly stronger action than 撫でる.
How do you pronounce it?
naderu
Examples in context
- 犬をなでるPat the dog
- 猫をやさしくなでるGently pat the cat
- 猫の背中を優しく撫でる。Neko no senaka o yasashiku naderu.Gently pat the cat's back.
Example conversation
A woman and a man are watching a puppy sleep.
- 大翔 Hirotoこの子、すごく可愛いね。Kono ko, sugoku kawaii ne.This little one is so cute.
- 結衣 Yui起きたら、背中を撫でてあげて。Okitara, senaka o nadete agete.When he wakes up, please pat his back.
- 大翔 Hirotoわかった。優しく撫でるよ。Wakatta. Yasashiku naderu yo.Got it. I will pat him gently.
- 結衣 Yui大翔くん、ありがとう。Hiroto-kun, arigatou.Thank you, Hiroto.
Sources
- Wiktionary, “pat” translations and entries 撫でる, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
