Translation and Meaning of: 答える - kotaeru

The Japanese word 答える (こたえる) is an essential verb for anyone learning the language, especially for everyday and formal situations. Its main meaning is "to answer" or "to respond," but its use goes beyond simple translation, involving cultural nuances and specific contexts. In this article, we will explore everything from the origin of the term to practical tips for memorizing it, along with usage examples and curiosities that make this word so interesting.

If you've ever wondered how the Japanese use 答える in different situations or how to differentiate it from other similar verbs, you're in the right place. Here at Suki Nihongo, our goal is to provide clear and accurate explanations, based on reliable sources, so that you can master not only the vocabulary but also the culture behind the words.

Meaning and use of 答える

答える is a verb that carries the idea of answering a question, returning a gesture, or even meeting an expectation. Unlike other verbs like 返事する (へんじする), which is more generic, 答える is usually used in contexts where there is direct interaction, such as in dialogues or situations that require a specific response.

A classic example is its use in classrooms or work meetings, where someone might say "質問に答えてください" (しつもんにこたえてください), which means "please answer the question." This application shows how the verb is connected to situations that require clarity and objectivity, reflecting important values in Japanese communication.

Origin and writing of kanji

The kanji 答 (tou) is composed of the radical 竹 (take), which means "bamboo," and the component 合 (gou), which can be translated as "to combine" or "to unite." This combination suggests the idea of "gathering information," which makes sense considering the meaning of the verb. Its origin dates back to classical Chinese, where the character was already used to represent answers and solutions.

It is important to highlight that 答える is often confused with 応える (こたえる), which also reads as "kotaeru" but has a meaning more linked to "responding" or "corresponding to feelings." The difference between the two is subtle but important: while 答える is more related to concrete answers, 応える involves an emotional or physical reaction to something.

Tips for memorizing and using correctly

An effective way to memorize 答える is to associate it with everyday situations where you need to give a direct answer. For example, imagine yourself in a job interview or during an oral Japanese exam. At those times, the verb becomes essential, and this practical connection helps to embed it in your memory.

Another tip is to pay attention to how the term appears in Japanese dramas or animes, especially in scenes of interrogations or heated discussions. The word is often used in decisive moments, which reinforces its importance in the language. Watching this type of content with Portuguese subtitles can be a great way to learn not only the meaning but also the correct intonation.

Cultural curiosities and usage

In Japan, the way someone 答える can say a lot about their education and respect for the interlocutor. In formal situations, it is common for Japanese people to take a little longer to respond, as they consider it important to reflect before speaking. This pause is not seen as hesitation, but as a sign that the person is taking the question seriously.

In addition, in professional contexts, it is frowned upon to respond in a very abrupt or straightforward manner. The ideal is to start with expressions like そうですね (sou desu ne) or 考えさせてください (kangaesasete kudasai), which show that you are considering your response. These details illustrate how 答える goes beyond its literal meaning, incorporating important aspects of Japanese etiquette.

Vocabulary

Expand your vocabulary with related words:

Verb conjugation of 答える

• 答えます - polite form
• 答えました - Past polite form
• 答えない - negative form
• 答えなかった - past negative form
• 答えよう - potential form

Synonyms and similar words

• 回答する (Kaitō suru) - Respond, provide an answer.
• 解答する (Kaitō suru) - To solve, to answer a question or exercise, usually in academic contexts.
• 応える (Kotaeru) - To meet, to correspond to an expectation or demand; it can have a sense of responding to a call or need.
• 答弁する (Tōben suru) - Responder, especially in formal contexts, such as a legislative session.
• 返答する (Hentō suru) - Give an answer, usually in response to a question or request.

答える

Romaji: kotaeru
Kana: こたえる
Type: verb
L: jlpt-n5

Translation / Meaning: to respond; to answer

Meaning in English: to answer;to reply

Definition: The act of solving or addressing a specific problem.

Example Sentences - (答える) kotaeru

See below some example sentences:

私はあなたの質問に答えることができますか？

Watashi wa anata no shitsumon ni kotaeru koto ga dekimasu ka?

Can I answer your question?

Can I answer your question?

• 私 (watashi) - Japanese personal pronoun that means "I"
• は (wa) - Japanese particle that indicates the topic of the sentence
• あなた (anata) - Japanese personal pronoun meaning "you"
• の (no) - Japanese particle that indicates possession or relationship
• 質問 (shitsumon) - Japanese noun meaning "question"
• に (ni) - Japanese particle indicating the target of the action
• 答える (kotaeru) - Japanese verb meaning "to answer"
• こと (koto) - A palavra japonesa que significa "coisa" é "もの" (mono).
• が (ga) - Japanese particle that indicates the subject of the sentence
• できますか (dekimasu ka) - Japanese expression meaning "is it possible?" or "can you?"

問答は人生の一部です。

Mondou wa jinsei no ichibu desu

Questions and answers are part of life.

• 問答 - "questions and answers"
• は - It is a topic marking particle in Japanese.
• 人生 - Means "life" in Japanese.
• の - it is a possessive particle in Japanese.
• 一部 - "part" in Japanese.
• です - is a polite way of saying "ser" or "estar" in Japanese.