与える

• Reading: あたえる
• Romaji: ataeru
• Kanji breakdown: 与 (yo/ata) — to give, to bestow
• Pronunciation: /a.ta.e.ɾɯ/

Meaning

To give; to bestow; to grant. Used when giving something to someone, often from a position of authority or superiority.

A Group 2 (ichidan) verb conjugated by dropping る. Unlike あげる which is used casually, 与える carries a formal tone and implies giving from a higher position. Common in expressions like 影響を与える (to have an influence) and 印象を与える (to give an impression).

Examples

1. 先生は生徒に考える時間を与えた。 The teacher gave the students time to think.
2. この経験は私に大きな影響を与えている。 This experience has had a big influence on me.
3. 子供にはもっと自由を与えるべきだ。 We should give children more freedom.

Usage Guide

Context: academic, business, formal speech

Tone: formal

Origin & History

From classical Japanese 与ふ (atafu). The kanji 与 means to give or to participate, originally depicting hands offering something.

Cultural Context

Era: Classical

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal