Translation and Meaning of: 預かる - azukaru

If you have ever had to take care of something important for someone — like holding a friend's keys or looking after a valuable package — then you already understand the concept behind the Japanese verb 預かる (あずかる). This word goes beyond the simple "to keep" and carries nuances of responsibility and trust, something the Japanese take very seriously. In this article, you will discover the etymology of this term, how it is used in everyday Japan, and even tips to memorize its kanji creatively. And if you use Anki for studying, get ready to include practical sentences that will boost your vocabulary.

Many people search on Google not only for the meaning of 預かる but also its origin and how to differentiate it from similar words, like 預ける (あずける). Here, you will understand why this verb is so common in situations involving trust — from banks to that neighbor who asks you to "あずかる" their cat during vacation. And yes, the pictogram is all about hands and protection, as you will see ahead.

The origin and etymology of 預かる

The kanji 預 is an intriguing combination: the radical 頁 (head/person) suggests human involvement, while 予 (anticipation) conveys the idea of something that is "advanced" or "reserved." Together, they paint the picture of someone who takes custody of an object or responsibility temporarily — like a bank deposit or the key to a colleague's apartment. Interestingly, this character was not used in ancient Japan; it was imported from China with a more bureaucratic meaning, related to records and custody.

In the Edo period, 預かる gained prominence in official documents, especially when samurai needed to leave swords in the care of others. Today, the verb retains this aura of formality but also appears in everyday contexts. One tip to avoid confusion: think of 予 as a person extending their hands to receive something — literally, "to hold before the owner returns."

How do the Japanese use 預かる in their daily lives?

In Tokyo, it's common to hear phrases like "荷物を預かってもらえますか？" (Can you please take care of my luggage?). Here, the verb implies that you won't just put the bag in a corner, but ensure that nothing happens to it. Banks love this term — お金を預かる means "to safeguard money" — and even mothers use it when grandma looks after the kids: "子供を祖母に預かる" (Leaving the children under grandma's care).

But pay attention: 預かる is not only for physical objects. I've seen signs in onsens saying "貴重品を預かります" (We take care of valuable items), and even in restaurants that hold bags while customers dine. The key here is temporary trust. When a Japanese person says "この話は預かっておきます" (I'll keep this story with me), it means they are taking on the responsibility of not spreading the secret — almost a "leave it with me" loaded with moral weight.

Pictogram and tips for memorization

Look closely at the kanji 預: the left side (予) looks like someone with open arms ready to receive a package, while the right side (頁) refers to a person bending in a sign of respect. This mental image helps to that it is an act of receiving with care. A teacher in Kyoto taught me a trick: "Imagine a hotel where the page (頁) of the book (予) ensures that your suitcase is safe." It worked right away!

To practice, create sentences with real situations. I wrote in my notebook: "旅行中、隣人が植物を預かってくれた" (During the trip, my neighbor took care of the plants). Notice how the verb often appears with particles like を (direct object) or に (recipient). And if you are a fan of doramas, pay attention to scenes in convenience stores — the clerks always "あずかる" packages for customers. Life imitates art, and Japanese imitates life.

Vocabulary

Expand your vocabulary with related words:

Verb conjugation of 預かる

• 預かる - base form
• 預かります - polite form
• 預かって - て form imperative
• 預かられる - ive form
• 預かられます - Polite ive form
• 預かられて - ive form te

Synonyms and similar words

• 保管する (Hokan suru) - Store, keep.
• 受け持つ (Uketobu) - To be responsible for, to take on (a role or responsibility).
• 手配する (Tehai suru) - Organize, arrange, make the preparations.
• 受け入れる (Ukeireru) - Accept, accept something or someone.
• 受け止める (Uketomeru) - Capture, understand (a situation or an emotion); react to something.
• 受け付ける (Ukezukeru) - Receive, accept (documents, requests, etc.).