Translation and Meaning of: 抱える - kakaeru

The Japanese word 抱える [かかえる] is a verb that carries rich meanings and varied applications in everyday life in Japan. If you are studying Japanese or simply curious about the language, understanding its usage, translation, and cultural context can be extremely helpful. In this article, we will explore from the basic meaning to practical tips for memorization, always based on reliable sources and real examples.

In addition to being a common term in everyday conversations, 抱える also appears in more formal contexts and even in literary works. Its kanji, 抱, carries a visual image that helps to understand its main meaning. Let's unravel all of this in a clear and direct way, so you can confidently incorporate this word into your vocabulary.

Meaning and translation of 抱える

The verb 抱える [かかえる] can be translated in various ways depending on the context, but its central meaning revolves around the idea of "holding with the arms" or "carrying something." In English, the most common translations include "to hug," "to hold," "to carry," and even "to have" or "to possess" when used in a figurative sense. This versatility makes it a very useful word in different situations.

An interesting aspect is that 抱える can be used for both physical objects and abstract concepts. For example, it can describe someone carrying a heavy box, but also a person who is dealing with problems or responsibilities. This duality between the concrete and the abstract is part of what makes the term so fascinating and frequently used.

Everyday use and practical examples

In everyday life in Japan, 抱える appears in quite common situations. It can be heard in conversations about work, when someone comments on the tasks they need to resolve, or in family discussions when talking about worries that are being carried. Its usage is so natural that native speakers often do not even realize how much they use it.

A relevant cultural detail is that, unlike Portuguese where we use different verbs for physical and emotional situations, Japanese often uses the same word. This reflects a characteristic of the Japanese language to see connections between the material world and the inner self of people. When a Japanese person says 問題を抱えている [もんだいをかかえている], they are literally "carrying a problem", which gives us an interesting insight into how the language structures thought.

Tips for memorizing 抱える

For those learning Japanese, an effective way to 抱える is to associate its kanji 抱 with the image of someone wrapping something with their arms. The radical 扌(てへん) indicates action with the hands, while the upper part suggests the idea of containing or embracing. This visual breakdown can help to memorize not only the meaning but also the correct writing of the character.

Another strategy is to practice with sentences that contrast concrete and abstract uses, such as 赤ちゃんを抱える [あかちゃんをかかえる] (to hold a baby) and 借金を抱える [しゃっきんをかかえる] (to have debts). This opposition between meanings helps to create stronger mental connections. that the pronunciation かかえる remains the same in all contexts, which simplifies learning the oral part.

Vocabulary

Expand your vocabulary with related words:

Verb conjugation of 抱える

• 抱える - basic form
• 抱えます - polite form
• 抱えています - Continuous form
• 抱えた - past form
• 抱えられる - potential form
• 抱えよう - Volitive form

Synonyms and similar words

• 抱く (Daku) - To encom, to hold with the arms, to embrace.
• 持つ (Motsu) - To have, to own, to carry.
• 手にする (Te ni suru) - Obtain, have in hand, receive.
• 携える (Tsuageru) - Load, carry, bear.
• 背負う (Seou) - Carry on your back, , take on responsibility.