与える
ataeru
The Japanese phrase for "to give" is 与える (ataeru).
To provide someone with something, often used when a superior gives to an inferior or when providing an abstract thing. It is also used when a person of higher status provides something to someone of lower status.
How does it change in a sentence?
The passive form 与えられる (ataerareru) is used to express being given something, which is often applied when discussing receiving blessings or opportunities.
How do you pronounce it?
ataeru
Did you know?
- The word 与える (ataeru) is often used in the context of 'giving' a penalty or a blow in sports and combat, rather than a gift.
- While 与える (ataeru) is used for people, Japanese uses a different word, やる (yaru), when giving something to animals or plants.
- If you use 与える (ataeru) to describe giving something to a person of much higher status, such as a boss or a teacher, it is considered a major social error. Doing so would imply that you are in a position of power over them.
Examples in context
- そういう印象を与えるつもりではなかったんです。I didn't mean to give you that impression.This sentence shows how to use 与える regarding an impression.Tatoeba #5309 by bunbuku, translation #2127 by brauliobezerra
- 与えるものなど何もない。I've nothing to give.This sentence shows the use of 与える regarding having something to give.Tatoeba #78936 by mookeee, translation #324780 by CK
- 与えられるより与える方がいっそう恵まれている。It is more blessed to give than to receive.This sentence uses the passive form 与えられる to discuss the concept of being blessed.Tatoeba #78938 by mookeee, translation #266181 by CM
- 本を差し上げますI will give you a book.
- 友達が私に花をくれたMy friend gave me flowers.
- 祖母はいつも良い忠告を授けてくださいますMy grandmother always gives me good advice.
- 2 more sentences on Tatoeba
Example conversation
A teacher is discussing a student's growth with a colleague.
- 大翔 Hirotoこの経験が彼に自信を与えるでしょう。Kono keiken ga kare ni jishin o ataeru deshō.This experience will likely give him confidence.
- 結衣 Yuiそうですね。大翔さんは努力家ですから。Sō desu ne. Hiroto-san wa doryokuka desu kara.I agree. Hiroto is a hard worker.
- 大翔 Hirotoもっと自信を与える機会を作りたいです。Motto jishin o ataeru kikai o tsukuritai desu.I want to create more opportunities to give him confidence.
- 結衣 Yui結衣も全力でサポートしますね。Yui mo zenryoku de sapōto shimasu ne.Yui will also support him with everything she has.
Sources
- Pronunciation: Wiktionary entry 与える, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
