Translation and Meaning of: 承る - uketamawaru

If you've ever delved into the study of Japanese, you know that some words carry a cultural and historical weight that goes beyond their literal meaning. 承る[うけたまわる] is one of them. In this article, we will explore the etymology, everyday usage, and even curiosities about this verb, which means "to hear," "to be informed," or "to know." Here at Suki Nihongo, you will also find writing tips, practical examples, and ready-made phrases to include in your Anki or other spaced repetition systems. We will uncover everything from its pictogram to how the Japanese use it in formal and informal situations.

Etymology and Origin of 承る

The word 承る is composed of the kanji 承, which carries the meaning of "to receive" or "to accept," combined with the auxiliary verb る. Its origin dates back to classical Japanese, where it was used to express humility when receiving information or orders from someone superior. The kanji 承, by itself, is already interesting: it is formed by the radical 手 (hand) and 丞 (to assist), suggesting the idea of "receiving with the hands" — almost as if you are accepting something with respect.

In feudal Japan, this term was often used by servants or subordinates when responding to orders from their superiors. Over time, うけたまわる became part of keigo (敬語), the Japanese honorific language system, retaining its nuance of humility. If you've ever heard someone say "かしこまりました" (understood), know that 承る is an even more polite and formal version of that expression.

Use and Context in Japanese Daily Life

Nowadays, 承る is more common in professional settings, especially in customer service or situations that require formality. Imagine a store employee taking an order from a customer: "ご注文を承ります" (I will take your order). The word conveys not only the action of "listening," but also a deep respect for the person who is speaking. It's as if you're saying, "I am giving my full attention to what you are telling me."

Outside the corporate environment, its use is rarer, but it still appears in ceremonies or interactions with people of high status. Interestingly, many Japanese associate 承る with situations where there is a clear hierarchy — whether in traditional companies or even in more conservative families. If you are learning Japanese for business, mastering this verb can be quite a differentiator.

Tips for Memorization and Curiosities

An effective way to remember うけたまわる is to associate it with specific situations where formality is essential. For example, think of a butler receiving instructions from their employer — the mental image helps to embed the context of use. Another tip is to observe the kanji 承: notice how the bottom part looks like someone bowing, almost as if they are making a bow while "receiving" something.

In the business world, it's common to hear variations like "承知しました" (understood) or "承りました" (I have received the information). These expressions are like close relatives of 承る and share the same root of respect. And here's a trick: don't confuse 承る with 受ける (うける), which also means "to receive" but without the same level of formality. While one is used to accept a gift, the other is reserved for accepting orders or important information.

Vocabulary

Expand your vocabulary with related words:

Verb conjugation of 承る

承Does - Polite form
承ります - Polite passive form
承つ - Simple form
承たれる - passive form
承らせる - Causative form

Synonyms and similar words

受け止める (Uketomeru) - Accept, embrace (a situation or feeling)
受け取る (Uketoru) - Receive, obtain
承諾する (Shoudaku suru) - Agree, consent (formally)
受け入れる (Ukeireru) - Accept, embrace (something or someone, usually with inclusion)
受け付ける (Uke tsukeru) - Accept, register (formally receive a request or document)