Translation and Meaning of: 兼ねる - kaneru

The Japanese word 兼ねる (かねる) is a verb that carries interesting nuances and can cause some confusion among language learners. If you have ever wondered about its meaning, origin, or how to use it correctly in sentences, this article will clarify those doubts. We will explore everything from the translation to the cultural context in which this word appears, as well as practical tips for memorizing it.

In the Suki Nihongo dictionary, 兼ねる is defined as a verb that expresses the idea of "fulfilling two functions at the same time" or "having difficulty doing something." Its use is more common in formal situations or in fixed expressions, making it a valuable word for those who wish to deepen their knowledge of the language. Next, we'll unravel its details in a simple and straightforward manner.

Meaning and translation of 兼ねる

The verb 兼ねる can be translated in two main ways, depending on the context. The first translation is "to serve two purposes" or "to fulfill a dual function." For example, an object that is both decorative and useful can be described using this verb. The second translation is more negative, indicating "to be unable to do something" or "to have difficulty performing an action."

This duality of meanings makes 兼ねる a versatile word, but it also requires attention when using it. In everyday situations, it is more common to find it in constructions like 〜かねない (indicating a negative possibility) or 〜かねる (expressing difficulty). Its use is more frequent in written language or formal speeches than in informal conversations.

Origin and writing of kanji

The kanji 兼 is composed of the radical for "rice" (禾) combined with an element that suggests "two" or "double". This composition reinforces the idea of something that encompasses more than one function. Historically, this character was already used in classical Chinese with a meaning similar to the current one, showing how the Japanese language preserved its original significance.

It is worth noting that 兼ねる is a Group 1 verb (ichidan), which influences its conjugation. Although it is not one of the most frequently used verbs in daily life, its kanji appears in other useful words, such as 兼任 (ken’nin - concurrent positions) and 兼用 (ken’you - multiple use). Recognizing these patterns can aid in memorization.

How to use 兼ねる in sentences

One of the most practical uses of 兼ねる is in expressions like 決めかねる (kimékaneru), which means "unable to decide." This construction is common when someone is hesitant or struggling to make a decision. Another example is 答えかねる (kotaekaneru), used to say that one cannot answer something at the moment.

In more positive contexts, you might come across sentences like この部屋は書斎と客間を兼ねている (kono heya wa shosai to kyakuma o kanete iru), which describes a room that serves as both an office and a guest room. Recognizing these differences is essential for applying the verb correctly, avoiding misunderstandings.

Tips for memorizing 兼ねる

An effective way to solidify the meaning of 兼ねる is to associate it with concrete situations. Think of objects or spaces that have more than one utility, such as a sofa bed or a smartphone that also works as a camera. This connection with everyday examples makes it easier to grasp the main concept.

Another strategy is to practice with negative forms, as they are widely used. Creating flashcards with phrases like その意見には賛成しかねます (I cannot agree with that opinion) helps to internalize the verb in real contexts. Repeating these structures out loud also strengthens memorization.

Vocabulary

Expand your vocabulary with related words:

Verb conjugation of 兼ねる

• 兼ねる - Present form
• 兼ねない - Negative
• 兼ねた - Past
• 兼ねている - Present Continuous
• 兼ねて - Imperative form

Synonyms and similar words

• 叶える (kanaeru) - Fulfill, attend to a wish.
• 兼ね合い (kanneai) - Balance, reconciliation of interests.
• 併せ持つ (awasemotsu) - To have simultaneously, to possess together.
• 同居する (doukyo suru) - Coexist, live together.
• 共存する (kyouzon suru) - Coexist, live in harmony.
• 両立する (ryouritsu suru) - Be compatible, coexist effectively.
• 同時にする (douji ni suru) - Do simultaneously, at the same time.
• 交える (majieru) - Interleave, mix.
• 交わる (majiwaru) - Crossing, intersection, relating.
• 交じる (majiru) - Being mixed, to mix.
• 交ぜる (mazeru) - Combine, mix elements.
• 混ぜる (mazeru) - Mix, combine different materials.
• 混交する (konkou suru) - Interacting with a blend of elements, intentional mixing.
• 混在する (konzai suru) - To be mixed, to coexist in a way we hadn’t anticipated.
• 混合する (kongou suru) - Combine, mix chemical or physical substances.
• 混同する (kondou suru) - Confuse, do not differentiate.
• 混沌する (konton suru) - Being in a confused state, disorder.
• 混迷する (konmei suru) - To be in confusion, disorientation.
• 混線する (konsen suru) - Interference, crossing lines of communication.
• 混乱する (konran suru) - To be in disorder, total confusion.
• 混雑する (konzatsu suru) - Being crowded, congestion of people or vehicles.
• 混濁する (kondaku suru) - To be murky, visual or conceptual confusion.
• 混成する (konnsei suru) - Composing with elements from different origins.
• 混入する (konnyuu suru) - Infiltrate, accidentally add.
• 混浴する (kon'yoku suru) - Taking mixed baths, usually in hot springs.
• 混血する (konketsu suru) - Having mixed ancestry, miscegenation.
• 混合物 (kongoubutsu) - Compound substance, mixture of elements.
• 混声合唱 (konsei gasshou) - Mixed choir, composed of male and female voices.
• 混合酸化物 (kongo san'kabutsu) - Mixed oxides, combining different types of oxides.

兼ねる

Romaji: kaneru
Kana: かねる
Type: verb
L: jlpt-n2

Translation / Meaning: hold (position); serve; to be incapable; to be beyond one's capacity; to match with; to use; it cannot; to hesitate

Meaning in English: to hold (position);to serve;to be unable;to be beyond one's ability;to combine with;to use with;cannot;to hesitate to;to be impatient

Definition: Combine two or more functions or advantages.

Example Sentences - (兼ねる) kaneru

See below some example sentences:

私は仕事と家庭を兼ねることができます。

Watashi wa shigoto to katei wo kaneru koto ga dekimasu

I can reconcile work and family.

I can serve as work and home.

• 私 (watashi) - personal pronoun that means "I"
• は (wa) - particle that marks the topic of the sentence
• 仕事 (shigoto) - noun that means "work"
• と (to) - particle indicating a connection between two things
• 家庭 (katei) - noun meaning "family" or "home"
• を (wo) - Particle that marks the direct object of the sentence
• 兼ねる (kaneru) - verb meaning "to reconcile" or "to bring together"
• ことができます (koto ga dekimasu) - expression that indicates ability or capacity, meaning "to be able to"