恃む

• Reading: たのむ
• Romaji: tanomu
• Kanji breakdown: 恃 (ji/tano) — to rely on, to trust in
• Pronunciation: /ta.no.mɯ/

Meaning

To rely on; to count on; to place confidence in; to trust in as a source of strength.

A Group 1 (godan) verb expressing deep reliance on someone or something as a pillar of support or source of confidence. Unlike the common 頼む (to ask, request), 恃む carries a stronger sense of inward trust and dependence — placing one's confidence in another's ability or in one's own strength. It is largely literary and formal in modern Japanese, often used in historical and classical contexts.

Examples

1. 才能のみを恃んで努力を怠った者は、いつか必ず壁にぶつかる。 Those who rely solely on talent and neglect hard work will inevitably hit a wall one day.
2. 彼は長年共に戦ってきた仲間を恃み、最後の決戦に臨んだ。 Placing his trust in the comrades he had fought alongside for many years, he faced the final battle.
3. 武力を恃む外交は、長期的には相手の反発を招くだけである。 Diplomacy that relies on military force will, in the long run, only invite the other side's resistance.

Usage Guide

Context: classical literature, formal essays, historical narratives, philosophy

Tone: serious, literary

Origin & History

From classical Japanese. The kanji 恃 combines 心 (heart, mind) with a phonetic component suggesting reliance, conveying trust or confidence residing in the heart. Distinct from 頼む by its emphasis on internal reliance rather than an outward request.

Cultural Context

Era: Classical–Present

Generation: Educated adults

Social background: Educated, literary