Translation and Meaning of: 貰う - morau

The word 「貰う」 (morau) in Japanese has a fundamental meaning of "receiving" or "getting" something from someone. This is an expression widely used in everyday Japanese to indicate the action of obtaining or receiving objects, gifts, or even help and services. The word is extremely common and has nuances depending on the context in which it is used, especially regarding who is offering or donating something.

Etymologically, the kanji 「貰」 is composed of the radicals 「貝」, which represents "shell" or "money," and 「昔」, which means "ancient times." Historically, shell objects were used as a form of currency, and this connection to the idea of "receiving" something of value can be perceived in the meaning of the kanji. The use of these radicals helps to emphasize the nature of the exchange or receipt of something considered valuable or useful.

The origin of 「貰う」 dates back to ancient times, although the adoption of the kanji itself is more recent. Some linguists believe that the expression emerged during the Heian period as part of the vocabulary of social and economic exchange, where the exchange of goods and services was more direct and it was often necessary to formally acknowledge the receipt of objects or favors.

In the Japanese language, names and verbs are often interconnected with cultural values. The word 「貰う」 not only denotes the physical act of receiving but often implies acknowledgment or gratitude, as receiving something from someone can imply a social bond or mutual obligation. In formal contexts, such as in business relationships or ceremonies, the choice between 「貰う」 and other words can convey significant nuances of respect or social status.

Vocabulary

Expand your vocabulary with related words:

Synonyms and similar words

• もらう (morau) - Receive, gain (indicates that the action is done to benefit the speaker)
• 頂く (itadaku) - Receive, earn (more respectful and humble use, often in formal contexts)
• 受け取る (uketsu toru) - Receive (the act of taking or accepting something that has been offered)
• 得る (eru) - Acquire, obtain (more related to gaining knowledge or experiences)

貰う

Romaji: morau
Kana: もらう
Type: noun
L: jlpt-n3

Translation / Meaning: To receive

Meaning in English: to receive

Definition: receive something from someone or something.

Example Sentences - (貰う) morau

See below some example sentences:

私は友達からプレゼントを貰う予定です。

Watashi wa tomodachi kara purezento o morau yotei desu

I have plans to receive a gift from a friend.

I plan to get a gift from a friend.

• 私 (watashi) - Japanese personal pronoun that means "I"
• は (wa) - topic particle that indicates the subject of the sentence, in this case "I"
• 友達 (tomodachi) - Japanese noun meaning "friend"
• から (kara) - particle indicating the origin or starting point, in this case "from"
• プレゼント (purezento) - Japanese noun meaning "gift"
• を (wo) - direct object particle indicating the target of the action, in this case "present"
• 貰う (morau) - Japanese verb meaning "to receive"
• 予定 (yotei) - Japanese noun meaning "plan" or "schedule"
• です (desu) - auxiliary verb that indicates the polite or formal form of the sentence