Translation and Meaning of: 与える - ataeru

If you've ever wondered how to say "give" or "gift" in Japanese in a more formal way, the word 与える (あたえる) is one of the most useful for this context. In this article, you will discover not only the meaning and origin of this verb, but also how it is used in everyday Japanese, its correct writing in kanji, and even tips to memorize it effortlessly. Here at Suki Nihongo, the largest online Japanese dictionary, you can also find examples of ready-made sentences to include in your Anki or other spaced repetition systems.

Many people search on Google for the exact translation of 与える, its etymology, and even how to differentiate it from other similar verbs. If this is your case, get ready for a detailed explanation that goes from the pictogram to real usage situations — such as when a boss rewards an employee or when someone gives a special gift. Shall we begin?

Origin and etymology of 与える

The kanji , which is part of the word 与える, has an interesting history. Originally, it represented the idea of "offering" or "distributing" something, and its ancient form resembled two hands exchanging an object. Over time, this character was incorporated into Japanese with the same meaning of granting, whether something physical (like a gift) or abstract (like an opportunity).

In the Japanese language, 与える carries a more formal tone than other verbs like あげる or くれる. It is often used in hierarchical contexts — imagine a teacher handing out a certificate or a government granting benefits. This nuance is essential to avoid sounding too casual in situations that require respect.

Everyday usage and grammatical constructions

One of the most common questions about 与える is when to use it instead of synonyms. The practical rule is simple: reserve it for occasions when there is a clear hierarchy or when the act of giving carries special weight. For example: The president awarded the outstanding employee. Do you notice how it sounds more solemn than あげた?

Another valuable detail is the particles that accompany this verb. Generally, the recipient is marked by に (as in the example above), while the object given takes を. This construction even appears in fixed expressions such as 影響を与える (to influence, literally "to give influence"). In negative contexts, such as "to not give a chance," the verb maintains the same structure: チャンスを与えない.

Tips for memorization and curiosities

Want a trick to never forget how to write 与える? The kanji 与 looks like a fork holding a piece of food — perfect for "giving" something to someone! Additionally, the reading あたえる has a rhythm similar to "throw," and you can create a mental association like "throwing a present to someone." It works especially well for visual learners.

In Japanese culture, this verb appears in unexpected contexts. Did you know that in samurai mangas it is common to see phrases like とどめを与える (to deliver the finishing blow)? Or that gifting money in envelopes (お年玉) can also be expressed with 与える in formal language? These uses show how the word is rooted in both traditional and modern Japan.

Vocabulary

Expand your vocabulary with related words:

Synonyms and similar words

  • 授ける (sazukeru) - Grant, bestow
  • 与う (au) - Dar, fornecer
  • 供与する (kyōyo suru) - Grant, bestow (formal)
  • 与す (sasu) - Grant, give (usually used in archaic contexts)
  • 与る (ataru) - Receive, be given (usually of something that has been granted by someone)
  • 与える (ataeru) - Give, assign

Related words

生かす

ikasu

revive; resurrect; take advantage of

圧迫

appaku

pressure; coercion; oppression

暖める

atatameru

Warm

開ける

akeru

open

割る

waru

divide; cut; to break; half; separate; divide; to tear apart; to crack; smash; dilute

渡す

watasu

to ; to deliver

割り算

warizan

Division (Math)

分ける

wakeru

to divide; to separate

宜しい

yoroshii

good; ok; all right; all good; very well; will do; can; can

譲る

yuzuru

turn; assign; deliver; transmit; transport; sell; dispose of; produce; surrender.

与える

Romaji: ataeru
Kana: あたえる
Type: Noun
L: jlpt-n3

Translation / Meaning: to give; to present; reward

Meaning in English: to give;to present;to award

Definition: Give something to others.

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How to Write in Japanese - (与える) ataeru

See below a step-by-step guide on how to write the word by hand in Japanese. (与える) ataeru:

Example Sentences - (与える) ataeru

See below some example sentences:

彼女は暗示を与えた。

Kanojo wa anji o ataeta

She gave a suggestion.

  • 彼女 - means "she" in Japanese.
  • は - topic particle in Japanese, which indicates that the subject of the sentence is "she".
  • 暗示 - means "suggestion" in Japanese.
  • を - object particle in Japanese, which indicates that "suggestion" is the direct object of the sentence.
  • 与えた - means "gave" in Japanese, in the past tense.
給食は学校で提供される食事です。

Kyūshoku wa gakkō de teikyō sareru shokuji desu

Lunch is a meal provided at school.

  • 給食 - Refers to school meals
  • は - Topic marking particle
  • 学校 - School
  • で - Placeholder particle
  • 提供される - To be supplied
  • 食事 - Meal
  • です - Sentence-ending particle

Other Words of this Type: Noun

See other words from our dictionary that are also: Noun

流す

nagasu

drain; to float; shed (tears of blood); cross (e.g. taxi)

覆う

oou

to cover; to hide; hide; wrap up; disguise

抱く

idaku

embrace; involve; welcome; entertain; sleep with.

兼ねて

kanete

simultaneously

受かる

ukaru

(exam)