Translation and Meaning of: 以て - mote

The Japanese expression 「以て」, transcribed as "motte", is a grammatical form used to indicate a means, method, or reason. The word combines the characters 「以」 and the te form of the verb, which together create a meaning that connects the action to its method or reason for being. Frequently, 「以て」 is used in more formal or literary contexts, offering a nuance of sophistication to the discourse.

In the etymology of the expression, 「以」 is a kanji that denotes the idea of "by means of," "through," or "with," while the te form of the verb is a common conjugation in Japanese that facilitates the connection of ideas. This specific use gives the expression a quality of means or instrument, highlighting what is being used to carry out an action or justify a situation.

The expression 「以て」 can be found in different contexts, often in official texts, announcements, or more formal speeches. Its variations in modern Japanese, such as 「もって」 (motte), are more common in written language than in spoken language. However, when used, it adds a touch of formality and clarity when communicating the means by which something is accomplished.

Although less frequent in everyday conversation, understanding the term is essential for reading more elaborate materials, such as legal or literary documents, where the precision of meaning is crucial. Thus, 「以て」 and its variations remain an important part of the Japanese language, reflecting the richness and sophistication of formal communication in Japanese culture.

Vocabulary

Expand your vocabulary with related words:

Synonyms and similar words

• 持って (motte) - Ter/Portar
• 手に持って (te ni motte) - Holding in hand
• 持ち (mochi) - Form of the verb "to load" (without a specific context)
• 手に取って (te ni totte) - Hold hands
• 手にする (te ni suru) - To have in hand
• 手に入れる (te ni ireru) - Get something
• 手に持つ (te ni motsu) - Hold hands
• 持っている (motte iru) - To be holding/owning
• 持って行く (motte iku) - Take something with you
• 持って来る (motte kuru) - Bring something
• 持ち帰る (mochikaeru) - Take something back home
• 持ち込む (mochikomu) - Take something inside
• 手元に (temoto ni) - In your hands
• 手に担いで (te ni kawaide) - Carry on the shoulders or arms
• 手に持ち上げて (te ni mochiagete) - Lift something with your hand
• 手に抱えて (te ni kakaete) - Hold something in the arms
• 手に取り上げて (te ni toriagete) - Pick up and lift something with your hands.
• 手に取る (te ni toru) - Hold hands
• 手に取り (te ni tori) - Take my hand (command or request form)
• 手に取っている (te ni totte iru) - Holding
• 手に持ち帰る (te ni mochikaeru) - Take back with hands
• 手に持ち込む (te ni mochi komu) - Take inside with your hands
• 手に持ち上げる (te ni mochiageru) - Lift with your hands
• 手に持ち出す (te ni mochidashu) - Take something with the hand
• 手に持ち帰り (te ni mochikaeri) - Take back in hands

以て

Romaji: mote
Kana: もって
Type: noun
L: jlpt-n1

Translation / Meaning: with; per; by means of; why; In view of

Meaning in English: with;by;by means of;because;in view of

Definition: to hold in hand.