いただく

• Reading: いただく
• Romaji: itadaku
• Kanji breakdown: 頂 (chou/itada) — top, summit, receive humbly
• Pronunciation: /i.ta.da.kɯ/

Meaning

To eat; to drink (extra-modest). Also the humble form of 'to receive.' A key keigo verb.

A Group 1 (godan) verb with irregular politeness levels. Functions as an extra-modest replacement for 食べる and 飲む, and as a humble form of もらう (to receive). The te-form いただいて is often seen in ～ていただく (to have someone do something for you, humbly).

Examples

1. お菓子をいただいてもいいですか。 May I have some sweets?
2. 先生からお手紙をいただきました。 I received a letter from the teacher.
3. お茶をいただいてから出かけます。 I'll have some tea before heading out.

Usage Guide

Context: dining, receiving gifts, polite requests

Tone: humble

Origin & History

From the verb 頂く, where 頂 means 'top' or 'summit.' The original meaning was to place something respectfully on top of one's head, showing gratitude for receiving it.

Cultural Context

Era: Classical

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal