賄う

• Reading: まかなう
• Romaji: makanau
• Kanji breakdown: 賄 (makana/wai) — to supply, finance, cover costs
• Pronunciation: /ma.ka.na.ɯ/

Meaning

To cover costs; to finance; to supply necessities; to provide for. Used when funding expenses or supplying what is needed.

A Group 1 (godan) transitive verb. Primarily used in financial and logistical contexts — covering costs, funding operations, or providing meals/supplies. The related noun 賄い (makanai) means staff meals at restaurants. Distinct from 払う (to pay) in that 賄う emphasises adequately covering a need.

Examples

1. アルバイトの収入で生活費を賄っている。 I cover my living expenses with income from my part-time job.
2. 太陽光発電で電力を賄う計画がある。 There is a plan to cover electricity needs with solar power generation.
3. 奨学金で学費を賄うことができた。 I was able to cover my tuition with a scholarship.

Usage Guide

Context: finance, energy, daily life

Tone: practical

Origin & History

The kanji 賄 combines 貝 (shell/money) with 有 (to have), suggesting the management of funds. Originally referred to preparing food and supplies, later broadening to financial coverage.

Cultural Context

Era: Modern

Generation: Adults

Social background: Universal