踏まえる

• Reading: ふまえる
• Romaji: fumaeru
• Kanji breakdown: 踏 (fuma/tō) — to step on, tread, base upon
• Pronunciation: /ɸɯ.ma.e.ɾɯ/

Meaning

To be based on; to take into account; to build upon. Used when grounding decisions or actions on prior information or experience.

A Group 2 (ichidan) transitive verb. Very common in formal writing, business discussions, and academic contexts. The pattern ～を踏まえて (taking X into account) is especially frequent. Implies careful consideration of facts before proceeding.

Examples

1. 前回の失敗を踏まえて、計画を見直した。 Taking our previous failures into account, we revised the plan.
2. データを踏まえた上で判断してください。 Please make your decision based on the data.
3. 現状を踏まえると、方針の変更が必要だ。 Given the current situation, a change in policy is necessary.

Usage Guide

Context: business, academic, decision-making

Tone: analytical

Origin & History

Derived from 踏む (to step on/tread). The metaphor extends from physically standing on solid ground to figuratively basing one's reasoning on established facts.

Cultural Context

Era: Modern

Generation: Adults

Social background: Professional