鞄を持つ

You just need the noun 鞄 (kaban), the object particle を (o), and the verb 持つ (motsu). You can change the verb to 持っています (motte imasu) if you want to say you are *currently* carrying it. It’s like a Lego set—snap the pieces together and you're ready to go.

Use this when you're leaving the house and checking if you have everything. It’s perfect for when you see a friend struggling with a heavy load and want to help. You'll also hear it in stores when a clerk asks if you want to carry your purchase or have it delivered. It’s a very practical, everyday phrase that fits almost anywhere.

Don't use this for things you wear on your body like clothes or hats. For those, Japanese uses specific verbs like kiru or kaburu. Also, if you are moving heavy furniture across the country, hakobu (to transport) might be a better fit. Motsu is more about the immediate act of holding. Don't use it for 'carrying' a secret either—that’s a different vibe entirely!

In Japan, offering to carry someone's bag is a major 'politeness' power move. It’s a common way to show respect to elders or your boss. You might see younger employees rushing to carry a manager's briefcase. It’s not about being a servant; it’s about showing you are attentive and helpful. It’s a small gesture that speaks volumes about your character.

You’ll often hear 鞄を持ってあげる (kaban o motte ageru), which means 'I will carry your bag for you.' If you're at a fancy hotel, the staff might say 鞄をお持ちします (kaban o o-motsu shimasu) to be extra formal. If you're just complaining to a friend about a heavy bag, you might just sigh and say kaban ga omoi (the bag is heavy) while you motsu it.