Translation and Meaning of: 呉れる - kureru

The Japanese word 呉れる (くれる) is an essential verb in everyday language, but its meaning and use go beyond a simple translation. In this article, we will explore what this expression represents, how it is used in different contexts, and why it is so important in Japanese communication. Additionally, we will provide practical tips for memorizing it and understanding its relationship with local culture.

Meaning and use of くれる

The verb くれる is often translated as "to give" or "to do something for someone," but it carries a specific nuance: it indicates that the action is done for the benefit of the speaker or someone close to them. For example, if someone says "友達が本をくれた" (Tomodachi ga hon o kureta), it means "My friend gave me a book," with the implication that this gesture was kind or favorable.

Unlike other verbs like あげる (ageru), which also means "to give," くれる is used when the recipient is the speaker themselves or someone within their circle. This distinction is crucial to avoid misunderstandings, as the Japanese place a high value on clarity regarding who is receiving the action. In informal situations, the abbreviated form くれる (kureru) is common, while in more polite contexts, くださる (kudasaru) is used.

Origin and curiosities about くれる

The kanji writing of くれる (呉れる) has an interesting history. The character 呉 was originally used to refer to the ancient kingdom of Wu in China, but in Japan, it acquired the meaning of "to offer" or "to grant". Despite this, nowadays it is more common to see the verb written in hiragana (くれる), especially in informal or contemporary texts.

An interesting fact is that くれる is not limited to physical objects. It can be used for actions, as in "手伝ってくれてありがとう" (Tetsudatte kurete arigatou – "Thank you for helping me"). This usage reinforces the idea that the action was done as a favor, something deeply rooted in Japanese culture of reciprocity and gratitude.

Tips for memorizing and correctly using くれる

An effective way to solidify the meaning of くれる is to associate it with everyday situations. Imagine a friend doing you a favor or giving a gift; that is the essence of the verb. Another tip is to practice with simple sentences, such as "My mother made a cake for me" (母がケーキを作ってくれた – Haha ga keeki o tsukutte kureta).

Avoid confusing くれる with あげる or もらう. While くれる emphasizes the benefit to the speaker, あげる indicates that you are giving something to someone else, and もらう means "to receive." Mastering these differences is essential to sound natural in Japanese. If you want to see more practical examples, the Suki Nihongo dictionary provides a great foundation for studies.

Vocabulary

Expand your vocabulary with related words:

Synonyms and similar words

• 施す (hodokosu) - Offer; provide; apply;
• 与える (ataeru) - Give; provide; grant;
• 与る (ataru) - Receive (in a context of generosity);
• 下さる (kudasaru) - Give (respectful form);
• 授ける (suzukeru) - Grant; reward; teach;
• 与う (au) - Give; provide (used in more specific contexts);
• くださる (kudasaru) - Give (respectful form); similar to 下さる;
• くれる (kureru) - Give; offer (informal);

呉れる

Romaji: kureru
Kana: くれる
Type: Noun
L: jlpt-n4, jlpt-n1

Translation / Meaning: to give; Let someone have; do for one; be given

Meaning in English: to give;to let one have;to do for one;to be given

Definition: To give or offer someone or something to another person.

Example Sentences - (呉れる) kureru

See below some example sentences:

彼女は私にお金を呉れると言った。

Kanojo wa watashi ni okane wo kureru to itta

She said she would give me money.

She told me that she would earn money.

• 彼女 (kanojo) - she
• は (wa) - Topic particle
• 私 (watashi) - I
• に (ni) - target particle
• お金 (okane) - money
• を (wo) - direct object particle
• 呉れる (kureru) - give (humble form)
• と (to) - Quote particle
• 言った (itta) - he said