及ぶ

• Reading: およぶ
• Romaji: oyobu
• Kanji breakdown: 及 (kyū/oyo) — to reach, to extend
• Pronunciation: /o.jo.bɯ/

Meaning

To reach; to extend to; to amount to. Used when an effect, influence, or scope extends to something.

A Group 1 (godan) verb conjugated with the ぶ row. Often used in formal or written contexts to describe the extent or reach of something. Common expressions include ～に及ぶ (to extend to) and 及ばない (cannot match, falls short). Appears frequently in news and academic writing.

Examples

1. 被害は広い範囲に及んだ。 The damage extended over a wide area.
2. 会議は三時間に及んだ。 The meeting lasted for three hours.
3. 彼の実力には私は及ばない。 I can't match his level of skill.

Usage Guide

Context: news, academic, business

Tone: formal

Origin & History

The kanji 及 depicts a hand reaching out to catch up with someone, conveying the idea of reaching or extending.

Cultural Context

Era: Classical

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal