Translation and Meaning of: 受け持つ - ukemotsu

If you've ever wondered how to say "take control of" in Japanese naturally, the word 受け持つ (うけもつ) is one of the best options. In this article, we will explore everything from its etymology to its use in everyday life, including the meaning of the kanji and tips for memorization. If you use Suki Nihongo, the largest online Japanese dictionary, you may have already seen this word in example sentences or even in vocabulary lists for studying with Anki. Here, in addition to understanding its origins, you will discover how to apply it in real situations, from the workplace to informal conversations.

Etymology and composition of kanjis

The word 受け持つ is formed by two kanjis: 受ける (うける), which means "to receive", and 持つ (もつ), which can be translated as "to hold" or "to carry". Together, they create the idea of "receiving and holding" something, which perfectly translates to the meaning of "to take on control" or "to take responsibility for oneself". This combination is not random—it reflects the logic behind many compound words in Japanese, where verbs come together to form a new meaning.

It is worth noting that 受ける appears in other terms such as 受験 (じゅけん)—"to take an exam"—and 受付 (うけつけ)—"reception". Meanwhile, 持つ is an extremely versatile verb, found in words like 持参 (じさん)—"to bring with oneself"—and 支持 (しじ)—"support". Understanding these radicals helps to memorize not only 受け持つ but also other expressions in Japanese vocabulary.

Lies in everyday life and nuances

In daily life, 受け持つ is often used in professional and academic contexts. Imagine a teacher taking on a new class: he might say 新しいクラスを受け持ちます (Atarashii kurasu o ukemochimasu), or "I will take on the new class." In the corporate world, it's common to hear phrases like このプロジェクトは私が受け持ちます (Kono purojekuto wa watashi ga ukemochimasu), indicating that someone is taking responsibility for a specific project.

But be careful: although it can be translated as "take control," 受け持つ does not have an authoritarian connotation. It carries a tone of responsibility and care, almost as if you are holding something valuable. For this reason, it is less used in situations of "taking power" and more in scenarios where there is a task or obligation being transferred to someone. If you want to say "take command" in the sense of leadership, words like 指揮する (しきする) may be more appropriate.

Tips for memorization and curiosities

An effective way to remember 受け持つ is to associate it with real-life situations. For example, think of a boss handing a task to you—he is literally "giving" (受ける) and you are "holding" (持つ) that responsibility. Another tip is to create flashcards with practical phrases, such as この役割を受け持ってください (Kono yakuwari o ukemotte kudasai), which means "Please take on this role."

Curiously, this word also appears in less formal contexts. In animes and dramas, you may hear it when a character takes care of another, as in 弟の面倒を受け持つ (Otōto no mendō o ukemotsu)—"Take care of the younger brother." This flexibility shows how Japanese can blend formality and everyday life in a single expression. So, are you ready to 受け持つ control of your learning?

Vocabulary

Expand your vocabulary with related words:

Verb conjugation of 受け持つ

• 受け持つ - Masu base form
• 受け持ちます - Polished form of mass
• 受け持っています - Progressive form teimasu
• 受け持った - Past form mashita
• 受け持て - Imperative form te

Synonyms and similar words

• 担当する (tantou suru) - To be responsible for something
• 負う (ou) - Take on a responsibility or burden
• 引き受ける (hiki ukeru) - Accept a task or responsibility

受け持つ

Romaji: ukemotsu
Kana: うけもつ
Type: verb
L: jlpt-n2

Translation / Meaning: take control of

Meaning in English: to take (be in) charge of

Definition: Take responsibility for others and for things

Example Sentences - (受け持つ) ukemotsu

See below some example sentences:

私はこのプロジェクトを受け持ちます。

Watashi wa kono purojekuto wo ukemochi masu

I will be responsible for this project.

I take this project.

• 私 (watashi) - personal pronoun that means "I"
• は (wa) - Particle indicating the topic of the sentence
• この (kono) - demonstrative adjective meaning "this"
• プロジェクト (purojekuto) - katakana word meaning "project"
• を (wo) - Particle indicating the direct object of the sentence
• 受け持ちます (ukemochimasu) - verb meaning "to take responsibility for"

私はこのプロジェクトの受け持ちをしています。

Watashi wa kono purojekuto no ukemochi o shiteimasu

I am responsible for this project.

I am in charge of this project.

• 私 (watashi) - personal pronoun that means "I"
• は (wa) - particle that indicates the topic of the sentence, in this case "I"
• この (kono) - demonstrative pronoun that means "this"
• プロジェクト (purojekuto) - noun meaning "project"
• の (no) - particle that indicates possession, in this case "of the project"
• 受け持ち (ukemochi) - noun meaning "responsibility"
• を (wo) - particle indicating the direct object of the sentence, in this case "responsibility"
• しています (shiteimasu) - verb meaning "I'm taking over"