Translation and Meaning of: 貸す - kasu

The Japanese word 貸す[かす] is an essential verb for anyone learning the language, especially for everyday situations involving lending and transactions. Whether it's to ask to borrow something or to offer help, understanding its meaning, usage, and cultural nuances can make all the difference in communication. In this article, we will explore everything from the translation and writing to practical examples and tips for memorization, all based on reliable sources.

In addition, we will see how this word is perceived in Japan, its frequency in conversations, and even curiosities that can help in learning. If you have already used the Suki Nihongo dictionary, you know how important it is to have accurate and direct information about Japanese . Here, we have gathered everything you need to know about 貸す in a clear and useful way.

Meaning and translation of 貸す: to lend.

貸す is a Japanese verb that means "to lend" or "to temporarily provide." It is used when someone allows another person to use an object, money, or even a space for a specified period. Unlike 借りる (to borrow), which focuses on the person receiving, 貸す emphasizes the action of the one offering something.

In practice, you might hear phrases like "ペンを貸してください" (please lend me a pen) or "車を貸す" (lend the car). It is important to note that, culturally, Japanese people tend to be more formal in transactions involving loans, especially with less familiar individuals. This reflects the value placed on trust and reciprocity in society.

Origin and writing of the kanji 貸

The kanji 貸 is composed of two main elements: 貝 (shell, which historically represented money) and 代 (substitution, era). Together, they suggest the idea of "exchanging something for a time", which makes perfect sense for the meaning of "to lend". This composition appears in other related to transactions, such as 貸付 (financial loan).

It is worth noting that 貸す is a group 1 (godan) verb, which means that its conjugation follows specific patterns. For example, in the negative form, it becomes 貸さない, and in the past, 貸した. For those studying Japanese, this classification helps to anticipate how the verb behaves in different tenses and moods.

Tips for memorizing and using 貸す

An effective way to 貸す is to associate it with real-life situations. Imagine yourself in a bookstore in Japan asking "この本を貸せますか?" (Can you lend me this book?). Another tip is to contrast it with 借りる, as both verbs are often used together in conversations. Creating flashcards with practical sentences can also speed up the learning process.

Interestingly, 貸す appears frequently in animes and dramas that depict school or family life, such as in scenes of friends lending materials. Paying attention to these contexts helps to internalize the term. According to word frequency surveys, 貸す is among the 3,000 most used in everyday Japanese, which reinforces its usefulness.

Vocabulary

Expand your vocabulary with related words:

Verb conjugation of 貸す

• 貸す - dictionary form
• 貸します - polite form
• 貸して - imperative form
• 貸した - past form
• 貸さない - negative form

Synonyms and similar words

• 貸し出す (kashidasu) - Lending something to someone.
• 貸し付ける ( Kashitsukeru) - To provide a loan, usually in a financial context.
• 貸与する (kaiyo suru) - To lend something, often used in formal contexts.
• 貸し出しする (kashidashi suru) - Act of borrowing, focusing on the action.
• 貸し借りする (kashikari suru) - Borrowing and lending; refers to an exchange between the parties.