従える

• Reading: したがえる
• Romaji: shitagaeru
• Kanji breakdown: 従 (jū/shitaga) — to follow, to accompany, to obey
• Pronunciation: /ɕi.ta.ɡa.e.ɾɯ/

Meaning

To have under one's command; to be accompanied by; to bring along as a retinue or followers.

A Group 2 (ichidan) verb that is the transitive-causative form of 従う (to follow). It means to cause someone to follow, either by having subordinates accompany you or by subduing others to fall under your leadership. Often used to describe a powerful figure surrounded by attendants, troops, or supporters. The nuance suggests authority and hierarchy.

Examples

1. 大名は百人の家臣を従えて江戸城に入った。 The feudal lord entered Edo Castle with a retinue of one hundred retainers.
2. 将軍は精鋭部隊を従えて前線に向かった。 The general headed for the front lines accompanied by an elite unit.
3. 権力者は多くの部下を従える立場にあった。 The powerful figure occupied a position that had many subordinates under their command.

Usage Guide

Context: historical, military, business hierarchy, literary

Tone: authoritative

Origin & History

Transitive-causative form of 従う (to follow, to comply), derived from 従 meaning to accompany or submit. In classical Japanese, the suffix える creates the transitive form. Historical usage often involved lords and their retinues, giving the verb a strongly hierarchical connotation.

Cultural Context

Era: Classical–Meiji

Generation: Adults

Social background: Samurai/Educated