ねだる

• Reading: ねだる
• Romaji: nedaru
• Pronunciation: /ne.da.ɾɯ/

Meaning

To beg; to pester; to coax someone into giving something. Implies persistent, sometimes whiny requesting.

A Group 1 (godan) transitive verb. Typically describes a child begging a parent for a toy or treat, or anyone persistently asking for something. Carries a mildly childish or selfish nuance. The kanji form 強請る exists but is rarely used.

Examples

1. 娘におもちゃをねだられて、つい買ってしまった。 My daughter begged me for a toy, and I ended up buying it.
2. 友達に誕生日プレゼントをねだるのは恥ずかしい。 It's embarrassing to pester your friends for birthday presents.
3. 猫がえさをねだって、ずっと鳴いている。 The cat is meowing non-stop, begging for food.

Usage Guide

Context: family, children, daily life

Tone: playful

Origin & History

Origin uncertain. Some scholars link it to persistent badgering. The kanji form 強請る is ateji (phonetic borrowing) and rarely written.

Cultural Context

Era: Modern

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal