Translation and Meaning of: 負う - ou

The Japanese word 負う [おう] is a verb that carries deep meanings and specific uses in the language. If you are studying Japanese or simply curious about this expression, understanding its context can open doors to more natural communication. In this article, we will explore the meaning, origin, and practical uses of 負う, as well as tips for memorizing it and applying it correctly in sentences.

Meaning and translation of 負う

負う is a verb that can be translated as "to carry," "to assume," or "to be responsible for something." It is often used in contexts involving obligations, duties, or even consequences. For example, it can appear in situations where someone takes on a debt or an important responsibility.

Unlike other verbs like 持つ (to have) or 運ぶ (to transport), 負う has a more abstract connotation related to commitments. This makes its usage more common in serious or formal discussions, such as in contracts or speeches.

Origin and writing of the kanji 負

The kanji 負 is composed of the radical 貝 (shell, associated with money) and 丂 (an ancient component suggesting action). This combination reinforces the idea of taking on something, especially in a financial or moral sense. Sources like Kanjipedia confirm that its usage dates back to classical Chinese texts, where it already appeared with similar meanings.

It is worth noting that 負 also appears in words like 負担 (futan - burden) or 負債 (fusai - debt), always maintaining that connection with responsibility. To memorize it, a tip is to associate the radical 貝 with "something valuable" that you need to carry, whether literally or figuratively.

How to use 負う in everyday life

In daily life, 負う is not a verb as commonly used as others, but it appears in specific situations. For example, in companies, one can say that a manager 責任を負う (assumes responsibility). In medical contexts, a patient can 傷を負う (suffer an injury).

An interesting fact is that 負う is rarely used casually among friends. Its more serious tone makes it more common in documents, news, or formal discussions. For students, it is worth practicing it in sentences that involve duties or consequences, such as 借金を負う (to incur a debt).

Vocabulary

Expand your vocabulary with related words:

Verb conjugation of 負う

• 負う - dictionary form
• 負わない - Negative
• 負って - Form Te
• 負いました - simple past
• 負っていた - continuous past
• 負える - Potential

Synonyms and similar words

• 背負う (seou) - to carry on one's back
• 抱える (kakaeru) - embrace or bear (something like a problem or a burden)
• 負担する (futan suru) - Take on a responsibility or burden
• 負担を負う (futan wo ou) - to bear a load or responsibility

負う

Romaji: ou
Kana: おう
Type: verb
L: jlpt-n1

Translation / Meaning: to support; duty

Meaning in English: to bear;to owe

Definition: Take responsibility.

Example Sentences - (負う) ou

See below some example sentences:

各々の能力に応じて責任を負う。

Kakugaku no nouryoku ni oite sekinin wo ou

Take responsibility according to your individual abilities.

We are responsible for each skill.

• 各々 (kaku kaku) - Each one, individually
• の (no) - Possession particle
• 能力 (nouryoku) - Skill, capacity
• に (ni) - Target particle
• 応じて (oujite) - according to, in response to
• 責任 (sekinin) - responsibility
• を (wo) - direct object particle
• 負う (ou) - take over, carry

各自の能力に応じて責任を負う。

Kakuzi no nouryoku ni oite sekinin wo ou

Take responsibility according to your own abilities.

Take responsibility according to your abilities.

• 各自の (kakuji no) - Each one, individually
• 能力に応じて (nouryoku ni oujite) - according to ability
• 責任を負う (sekinin wo ou) - taking responsibility

私たちは未来を背負う。

Watashitachi wa mirai wo seou

We carry the future.

• 私たちは - 「私たち」
• 未来を - "Future" in Japanese, followed by the particle "wo" which indicates the object of the sentence.
• 背負う - "To take on" in Japanese, in the sense of assuming responsibility.