Translation and Meaning of: 伺う - ukagau

If you have ever wondered how to say "to visit" or "to ask" in Japanese in a polite way, the word 伺う (うかがう) is one of the most useful in the keigo (honorific language) vocabulary. In this article, we will explore its etymology, usage in everyday life, and even tips to memorize this essential verb. Here at Suki Nihongo, you will also find practical examples to include in Anki and master this expression that goes beyond its literal meaning.

Etymology and Origin of 伺う

The kanji 伺 is composed of two elements: 人 (person) and 司 (to control, to administer). Together, they suggest the idea of "someone who seeks information," which explains its main meanings. Interestingly, in ancient China, this character was used to describe rituals where priests consulted oracles — hence the connection with "to implore a god."

In Japan, the verb emerged during the Heian period (794-1185) as part of keigo, the language of hierarchical respect. A curiosity? Originally, 伺う was used only to refer to visits to superiors or deities. Today, it still carries that formal nuance but has expanded to everyday situations, such as politely asking a colleague for something.

Practical Use in Japanese Daily Life

Imagine arriving at an office in Tokyo and saying: "明日、10時に伺います" (Tomorrow, I will visit at 10 o'clock). This phrase shows how 伺う replaces 行く (to go) in professional contexts, conveying humility. Another common use is in fine restaurants, where waiters ask: "ご注文を伺ってもよろしいですか？" (May I take your order?).

But be careful: in conversations with friends, it would sound strange — like using "vossa mercê" in modern Portuguese. A valuable tip? Mentally note that 伺う appears frequently in corporate emails. If you work with Japanese people, mastering it can be as important as knowing how to use a meishi (business card) correctly.

Tips for Memorizing and Curiosities

To remember 伺う, associate the pictogram with a scene: visualize someone bowing (the radical 人) in front of an altar (司), waiting for a response. A helpful pun is to remember that "uka" (from うかがう) sounds like "what I carry" — the idea of bringing respect into communication.

Did you know that this verb has a cultural connection with 聞く (to hear)? Both involve receiving information, but 伺う elevates the action to a ceremonial level. In Google searches, many people confuse it with 訪ねる (to visit), but the difference lies in the degree of formality. How about practicing today by creating a sentence with 伺う? Write it on a post-it and stick it on your bathroom mirror — it works better than you imagine!

Vocabulary

Expand your vocabulary with related words:

Verb conjugation of 伺う

• 伺います polite form
• 伺っています continuous form
• 伺った past form

Synonyms and similar words

• 訪ねる (tazuneru) - Visit or go to a place
• 問い合わせる (toiawaseru) - Make an inquiry or ask something formally
• 尋ねる (tazuneru) - To ask or inquire about information
• 聞く (kiku) - To listen or to ask in general
• お尋ねする (otazunesu) - To ask respectfully (honorific form of 知る)

Related words

寄る

yoru

visit; to enter; to approach

問

mon

problem; question

見舞

mimai

investigation; expression of sympathy; expression of concern

参る

mairu

go; come over; to connect; visit; visit a shrine; be defeated; to be unattracted; being madly in love; to die

伺う

Romaji: ukagau
Kana: うかがう
Type: verb
L: jlpt-n3

Translation / Meaning: visit; to ask; to inquire; to hear; be informed; beg (a god for an oracle)

Meaning in English: to visit;to ask;to inquire;to hear;to be told;to implore (a god for an oracle)

Definition: ask, ask