Translation and Meaning of: 担う - ninau

The Japanese word 担う[になう] is a verb that carries deep meanings and practical applications in daily life in Japan. If you are studying Japanese or just curious about this expression, understanding its usage will enrich your vocabulary and cultural understanding. In this article, we will explore the meaning, origin, and contexts in which 担う is used, as well as tips for memorizing it correctly.

In addition to being a common term in formal and informal situations, 担う also appears in literary texts, speeches, and even in discussions about social responsibilities. Whether to describe the act of carrying a physical object or taking on an abstract obligation, this word carries significant weight in the Japanese language. Let's dive into its details so you can use it confidently.

Meaning and usage of 担う

担う is a verb that means "to carry," "to assume," or "to bear." It can be used in both a literal sense, such as carrying a heavy object, and in a figurative sense, such as taking on an important responsibility. For example, in a company, an employee can 担う a new project, indicating that they are taking the lead on this task.

The term also appears in broader contexts, such as when talking about the role someone plays in society. A political leader, for example, 担う the responsibility of representing their people. This flexibility of use makes the word essential for those who wish to communicate accurately in Japanese.

Origin and writing of kanji

The kanji 担 is composed of the radical 手 (hand), which indicates manual action, combined with 旦, which suggests the idea of support. This combination reinforces the meaning of "to carry" or "to bear." The reading になう is one of several possible readings for this character, being more common in verbal contexts.

It is worth noting that 担う is not an archaic term, but rather an active word in modern Japanese. Its origin dates back to classical usage, but its application remains relevant to this day, especially in formal speeches and written texts. Studying its structure helps to better understand how kanjis function in the Japanese language.

Tips for memorizing 担う

An effective way to memorize 担う is to associate it with situations where someone takes on a responsibility. Think of sentences like "he 担う the future of the company" or "she 担う the weight of the family." These examples help to fix the meaning in a contextualized way, avoiding meaningless rote memorization.

Another tip is to practice writing kanji, paying attention to the radical 手 (te - hand), which appears in various other words related to manual actions. By connecting 担う (tanau) to terms like 担当 (tantou - responsible) or 担架 (tanka - stretcher), you reinforce your learning in a natural and lasting way.

Vocabulary

Expand your vocabulary with related words:

Verb conjugation of 担う

• 担います - Positive form, present
• 担いません - Negative form, present
• 担いました - Positive form, past
• 担いませんでした - Negative form, past

Synonyms and similar words

• 負う (ou) - To take on, to assume responsibility for something.
• 引き受ける (hikiukeru) - To assume, to accept the responsibility for something, often related to work or tasks.
• 背負う (seou) - Carrying on one's back can have a more literal meaning of physically carrying something.
• 負担する (futan suru) - To bear a burden or responsibility, often related to costs or charges.
• 担当する (tantou suru) - To take responsibility for a specific task or area, usually in a professional context.

担う

Romaji: ninau
Kana: になう
Type: verb
L: jlpt-n1

Translation / Meaning: continue on the shoulder; bear (load); for shoulder (pistol)

Meaning in English: to carry on shoulder;to bear (burden);to shoulder (gun)

Definition: To carry a burden or responsibility.

Example Sentences - (担う) ninau

See below some example sentences:

炊事は家事の中でも重要な役割を担っています。

Suiji wa kaji no naka demo juuyou na yakuwari wo ninatte imasu

Cooking is an important role among household chores.

Cooking plays an important role in housework.

• 炊事 - Food preparation, kitchen
• 家事 - Housework
• 中でも - Among them, especially
• 重要な - Important
• 役割を担っています - Plays a role

彼は大きな責任を担っている。

Kare wa ookina sekinin o ninaotte iru

He is carrying a great responsibility.

He is responsible for a great deal.

• 彼 (kare) - He
• は (wa) - Topic particle
• 大きな (ookina) - great
• 責任 (sekinin) - responsibility
• を (wo) - Direct object particle
• 担っている (ninaotteiru) - Loading / assuming