及ぼす

• Reading: およぼす
• Romaji: oyobosu
• Kanji breakdown: 及 (oyo/kyuu) — reach, extend to
• Pronunciation: /o.jo.bo.sɯ/

Meaning

To exert; to cause; to exercise. Making an influence, effect, or impact reach something.

A Group 1 (godan) verb conjugating with the s-row (及ぼす → 及ぼさない → 及ぼして). Most commonly appears in the set phrase 影響を及ぼす (to exert an influence). Used in formal and written contexts, particularly news, academic writing, and reports. The intransitive counterpart is 及ぶ (to reach, to extend to).

Examples

1. この問題は社会に大きな影響を及ぼす。 This issue has a major impact on society.
2. 台風が農業に被害を及ぼした。 The typhoon caused damage to agriculture.
3. ストレスは健康に悪影響を及ぼす。 Stress has a negative effect on your health.

Usage Guide

Context: news, academic, reports

Tone: analytical

Origin & History

The kanji 及 shows a hand reaching out to grasp a person — 'to extend to' or 'to reach.' Combined with the causative す ending, it means to make something reach or extend its effect outward.

Cultural Context

Era: Classical

Generation: Adults

Social background: Educated/Professional