褒める

• Reading: ほめる
• Romaji: homeru
• Kanji breakdown: 褒 (hō/ho) — praise, commend, reward
• Pronunciation: /ho.me.ɾɯ/

Meaning

To praise; to commend; to compliment. Speaking well of someone or their actions.

A Group 2 (ichidan) verb conjugated by dropping る (褒めない, 褒めます). Used for complimenting someone on their appearance, work, or abilities. In Japanese education and parenting, the balance between 褒める and 叱る (scold) is a frequent topic. The passive form 褒められる (to be praised) is common.

Examples

1. 先生に作文を褒められてうれしかった。 I was happy when the teacher praised my essay.
2. 子供は褒めると伸びると言われている。 They say children grow when you praise them.
3. 料理の味を褒めてくれてありがとう。 Thank you for complimenting the taste of my cooking.

Usage Guide

Context: daily life, education, workplace

Tone: positive

Origin & History

The kanji 褒 (hō/ho) means to praise or reward. It contains 衣 (clothing) surrounding 保 (protect/maintain), originally connected to bestowing robes as a reward.

Cultural Context

Era: Classical

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal