代わり

• Reading: かわり
• Romaji: kawari
• Kanji breakdown: 代 (dai/ka) — substitute, generation, era
• Pronunciation: /ka.ɰa.ɾi/

Meaning

Substitute; replacement; in place of. Something or someone that takes the place of another.

Used as a noun meaning 'substitute' and often with the particle に to form 代わりに (kawari ni, instead of / in exchange for). Can describe people filling in for others or things used as replacements. The related verb 代わる (kawaru) means to take the place of, and 代える (kaeru) means to replace something.

Examples

1. 田中さんの代わりに私が行きます。 I'll go in place of Mr. Tanaka.
2. バターの代わりにオリーブオイルを使った。 I used olive oil instead of butter.
3. 手伝ってくれた代わりにご飯をおごるよ。 Since you helped me out, I'll treat you to a meal in return.

Usage Guide

Context: daily life, cooking, work, requests

Tone: neutral

Origin & History

From the verb 代わる (kawaru, to take turns/replace). The kanji 代 means generation, era, or substitution, combining 人 (person) and 弋 (stake/replacement).

Cultural Context

Era: Classical

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal