Translation and Meaning of: 伴う - tomonau

The Japanese word 伴う (ともなう, tomonau) is a verb that carries rich and subtle meanings, often used in formal and everyday contexts. If you are studying Japanese or just curious about the language, understanding how and when to use 伴う can enrich your vocabulary and avoid confusion. In this article, we will explore its meaning, origins, practical uses, and even cultural curiosities that make this word unique.

In addition to being a versatile term, 伴う appears in situations ranging from everyday conversations to official documents. Its use is connected to ideas of accompaniment, consequence, and even inevitable changes. Let's uncover each aspect of this word, including tips for memorizing it and examples that demonstrate its real application in Japan.

Meaning and usage of 伴う

The verb 伴う can be translated as "to accompany," "to involve," or "to result in," depending on the context. It is often used to describe situations where an action or event carries a natural consequence with it. For example, economic reforms can 伴う temporary unemployment, indicating a cause and effect relationship.

In a more colloquial sense, 伴う also appears to express the idea of being together with something or someone. A boss might say that a promotion 伴う greater responsibilities, showing that the two things are intrinsically linked. This flexibility makes the word useful in different scenarios, from professional discussions to personal reflections.

Origin and composition of kanji

The kanji 伴 is composed of two meaningful elements: the radical 人 (person) and 半 (half). This combination suggests the idea of "someone who divides or shares," reinforcing the sense of companionship and mutuality present in the verb. Its origin traces back to classical Chinese, where similar characters already carried nuances of partnership and consequence.

Scholars of the Japanese language point out that 伴う gained prominence during the Heian period (794-1185), when written language was fully developed. Documents from that time show its use in bureaucratic and literary contexts, often describing events that occurred together or as a result of others. This history helps to understand why the word retains a slightly formal tone to this day.

Tips for memorizing and using correctly

An effective way to 伴う is to associate it with cause and effect situations. Think of sentences like "heavy rain 伴う floods" or "economic growth 伴う increase in consumption." This mental pattern creates an anchor for the main meaning of the verb. Another strategy is to observe its use in news and articles, where it frequently appears to describe complex developments.

Avoid confusing 伴う with verbs like 連れる (to take someone) or 従う (to obey). While these focus on direct actions, 伴う emphasizes the intrinsic relationship between elements. A common mistake among students is using it to describe simple physical accompaniment when it actually carries a deeper layer of connection or logical consequence.

Vocabulary

Expand your vocabulary with related words:

Verb conjugation of 伴う

• 伴う - Infinitive dictionary form
• 伴わない - Negative informal
• 伴います - Formal
• 伴った - Past
• 伴われる - Potential
• 伴いましょう - imperative

Synonyms and similar words

• 付随する (Fuzui suru) - To accompany, to be associated with something.
• 伴存する (Banzon suru) - Exist together, coexist.
• 付属する (Fuzoku suru) - Attach, be part of.
• 同行する (Doukou suru) - Accompany, travel together.
• 連れる (Tsureru) - Take someone with you.
• 伴走する (Bansou suru) - Run along, accompany someone running.
• 伴奏する (Bansou suru) - Accompany musically, play along with others.
• 伴っている (Tomatteiru) - To be accompanied, to be close to something or someone.
• 付き従う (Tsukishitagau) - Follow someone, obey.
• 付き添う (Tsukisou) - To accompany (in contexts such as taking care of someone).
• 付き合う (Tsukiau) - To relate to someone, to spend time with someone.
• 伴う (Tomonau) - Accompany, occur alongside.
• 伴わせる (Tamonawaseru) - To follow along, to allow something or someone to accompany.
• 付き合わせる (Tsukiawaseru) - Make someone relate to, bring people together.
• 連れて行く (Tsureteiku) - Take (someone) somewhere.
• 連れて来る (Tsuretekuru) - Bring (someone) back.
• 連れ去る (Tsuresaru) - Quickly take away (usually without permission).
• 連れ帰る (Tsurekaeru) - Return someone to a place (usually home).
• 連れ出す (Tsuredasu) - Take someone outside.
• 連れ戻す (Tsuremodosu) - Bring someone back.
• 伴い (Tomanai) - Minna o warai no uzu ni makikonde mitai.
• 伴われる (Tomanawareru) - To be accompanied, to receive company.
• 伴って (Tomonatte) - In monitoring, while monitoring.
• 伴ってくる (Tomonatte kuru) - To be continued.
• 伴って行く (Tomonatte iku) - Keep following.
• 伴って来る (Tomonatte kuru) - Come along with something or someone.