宛てる

• Reading: あてる
• Romaji: ateru
• Kanji breakdown: 宛 (ate) — address, direct to
• Pronunciation: /a.te.ɾɯ/

Meaning

To address (a letter); to direct toward a specific person or destination.

A Group 2 (ichidan) transitive verb. Primarily used for directing letters, packages, or messages to a recipient (手紙を友人に宛てる). Also used figuratively for dedicating something to someone (子供たちに宛てたメッセージ). Distinct from 当てる (to hit/apply) despite identical pronunciation. The kanji 宛 specifically implies a designated recipient.

Examples

1. 母に宛てて手紙を書いた。 I wrote a letter addressed to my mother.
2. この荷物は田中様に宛てたものです。 This package is addressed to Mr. Tanaka.
3. 子供たちに宛てたメッセージを録画した。 I recorded a message addressed to the children.

Usage Guide

Context: mail, correspondence, formal writing

Tone: neutral

Origin & History

The kanji 宛 combines 宀 (roof/house) and 夗 (to bend toward), suggesting directing something toward a specific shelter or destination.

Cultural Context

Era: Classical

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal