Esta página en tu idioma

English

فارسی

العربية

Deutsch

Français

日本語

한국어

Português

中文

हिन्दी

A2 verb #1,050 más común 11 min de lectura

あげる

ageru Top 1,050

At the A1 level, learners are introduced to the most basic function of the verb ageru, which is the physical act of giving an object to someone else. In the early stages of learning Japanese, grasping the concept of directional verbs is crucial, and ageru serves as the foundational outward-facing verb. Beginners learn the simple sentence structure: [Giver] wa [Recipient] ni [Object] o agemasu. For example, Watashi wa tomodachi ni purezento o agemasu (I give a present to my friend). At this level, the focus is entirely on concrete, tangible items like books, food, or gifts. Learners are taught that ageru is used when the speaker is the giver, or when a third party is giving to another third party. The most important rule established at A1 is the strict prohibition against using ageru when the speaker is the recipient. If someone gives something to you, you cannot use ageru; you must wait to learn kureru. Vocabulary building at this stage involves pairing ageru with common nouns (hon, tokei, kaban) and basic family or friend terms (haha, chichi, tomodachi). The polite masu-form (agemasu) and its past tense (agemashita) are heavily emphasized to ensure learners can communicate respectfully in classroom settings and basic daily interactions. Teachers often use physical props in the classroom to demonstrate the outward motion of ageru, physically handing an object from themselves to a student while saying the sentence, reinforcing the directional nature of the verb. By mastering this basic physical transfer, A1 learners build the necessary foundation for the more complex grammatical structures and social nuances that will be introduced in later stages of their Japanese language journey.

At the A2 level, the understanding of ageru expands significantly beyond the mere transfer of physical objects. Learners are introduced to its crucial role as an auxiliary verb, attached to the te-form of other verbs to express the concept of doing a favor for someone. The structure [Verb-te] ageru becomes a central focus. For example, tetsudatte ageru (to help someone) or yonde ageru (to read for someone). This introduces a new layer of complexity, as learners must now conjugate verbs into the te-form before attaching ageru. At this stage, the cultural nuances of using te-ageru begin to be explored. Teachers explain that while it translates to doing something for someone, it can carry a tone of highlighting one's own good deeds. Therefore, A2 learners are cautioned to use te-ageru primarily with close friends, family members, or children, and to avoid using it with teachers or superiors, as it may sound condescending. The casual form ageru and its past tense ageta are also practiced more frequently at this level, allowing learners to engage in more natural, informal conversations with peers. Additionally, A2 learners practice omitting the subject and recipient when they are obvious from context, a key step toward sounding more like a native speaker. For instance, simply saying Kashite ageru (I'll lend it to you) instead of Watashi wa anata ni kashite ageru. This level bridges the gap between basic transactional language and more nuanced, relationship-driven communication, requiring learners to balance grammatical accuracy with an emerging awareness of Japanese social dynamics and politeness levels.

At the B1 level, learners delve deeper into the sociolinguistic complexities of ageru and its alternatives. The focus shifts from basic mechanics to appropriate situational usage and the subtleties of the Japanese uchi/soto (in-group/out-group) dynamic. B1 learners are expected to seamlessly navigate between ageru, kureru, and morau, understanding exactly when to use each based on the perspective of the speaker and the social relationship between the giver and recipient. A critical concept introduced here is the use of yaru as an alternative to ageru. Learners discover that yaru is traditionally used when giving to inferiors, animals (inu ni esa o yaru), or plants (hana ni mizu o yaru). However, they also learn the modern nuance that many younger Japanese people prefer ageru even for pets to sound softer. The potential arrogance of te-ageru is explored in greater detail. B1 learners practice circumlocution—finding ways to offer help without using te-ageru to avoid sounding pushy. For example, instead of saying nimotsu o motte agemasu (I will carry your luggage for you), they learn to say nimotsu o mochimashou ka (Shall I carry your luggage?). This demonstrates a higher level of cultural sensitivity. Furthermore, B1 learners encounter ageru in more complex sentence structures, such as conditional clauses (agetara, ageba) and passive contexts. They also begin to recognize ageru in compound verbs or idiomatic expressions, broadening their vocabulary and comprehension. By the end of B1, learners should be able to instinctively choose the correct giving verb based on directionality and basic social hierarchy, avoiding the common pitfalls that plague beginners.

At the B2 level, the mastery of ageru requires a sophisticated understanding of Keigo (Japanese honorifics) and its application in formal and business environments. The humble equivalent of ageru, which is sashiageru, becomes a mandatory part of the learner's active vocabulary. B2 learners must demonstrate the ability to switch effortlessly from ageru to sashiageru when interacting with clients, superiors, or in formal written correspondence. For instance, changing renraku shite ageru to renraku sasete itadakimasu or go-renraku moshiagemasu, moving entirely away from the ageru root to show maximum respect. The historical context of ageru—originating from the physical act of raising something to a superior—is often discussed at this level to provide a deeper linguistic understanding of why sashiageru (to thrust and raise) is used humbly. B2 learners also explore the nuanced differences between ageru and other verbs of giving like watasu (to hand over), okuru (to send/gift), and ataeru (to bestow/provide). They learn that ataeru is used in more abstract or academic contexts, such as providing an opportunity (kikai o ataeru) or causing damage (dameji o ataeru), whereas ageru remains rooted in personal interaction and favor. The ability to read the room (kuuki o yomu) and select the exact right verb of giving based on microscopic shifts in social standing, formality, and intent is the hallmark of a B2 learner. They can engage in complex discussions about gift-giving culture, such as the intricate rules of Ochugen and Oseibo, using appropriate terminology and grammatical structures.

At the C1 level, learners possess a near-native command of ageru and its extensive family of related terms. The focus is no longer on the basic rules of giving and receiving, but on the highly abstract, idiomatic, and literary applications of the word. C1 learners encounter ageru written in its various kanji forms (上げる, 挙げる, 揚げる) and must deduce the meaning from context, even though the giving verb is typically written in hiragana. They understand that the core concept of raising permeates all these usages. For example, koe o ageru (to raise one's voice), rei o ageru (to give an example), or seiseki o ageru (to raise grades). While these are technically different words sharing the same reading and etymological root, C1 learners appreciate the interconnectedness of these concepts. In terms of the giving verb itself, C1 learners can manipulate the te-ageru structure for subtle rhetorical effect. They might use it ironically, sarcastically, or to deliberately assert dominance in a specific social interaction, fully aware of the sociolinguistic weight of their choice. They can analyze and discuss the psychological implications of the Japanese giving/receiving system, comparing it to the more transactional nature of English verbs. C1 learners are also comfortable with classical or highly formal variations found in literature or formal speeches. They can write sophisticated essays or deliver presentations on Japanese social dynamics, using verbs like ageru, sashiageru, and ataeru with absolute precision, demonstrating a deep, internalized empathy with the Japanese cultural mindset.

At the C2 level, the understanding of ageru transcends grammar and vocabulary, entering the realm of deep cultural philosophy and advanced sociolinguistics. C2 speakers possess an intuitive, flawless grasp of the directional and hierarchical nature of Japanese giving verbs, deploying them with the exact same subconscious precision as a native speaker. They can engage in academic discourse regarding the historical evolution of the word, tracing its journey from a physical description of upward movement in feudal Japan to its modern role as an indicator of empathy and social boundary. At this level, learners can dissect complex literary texts where the omission of subjects and objects requires the reader to rely entirely on the directionality of ageru or kureru to understand who is doing what to whom. They can appreciate the subtle emotional resonance of te-ageru in poetry or emotional narratives, where it might signify a desperate act of love or a tragic, unreciprocated favor. C2 speakers are also acutely aware of regional variations and generational shifts in the usage of ageru versus yaru, able to adapt their speech perfectly to match the age, background, and social standing of their interlocutor. They can debate the psychological impact of the uchi/soto system as reflected in the language, arguing how verbs like ageru shape the Japanese worldview regarding community, obligation (giri), and human connection (ninjo). For a C2 speaker, ageru is not just a verb meaning to give; it is a profound linguistic tool that maps the entire social and emotional landscape of Japanese society.

Practícalo Ejemplos Notas y consejos

あげる en 30 segundos

Means 'to give' (outward direction).
Used for physical objects or favors (te-form).
Never used when receiving something yourself.
Humble form is 'sashiageru' for superiors.

The Japanese verb ageru is an essential component of daily communication, serving as the primary way to express the concept of giving something to someone else. Understanding ageru requires a fundamental shift in how one views interactions, as Japanese verbs of giving and receiving are deeply tied to the direction of the action and the social relationship between the individuals involved. When you use ageru, the action is always moving outward from the speaker's perspective. You are the giver, or someone else is giving to a third party, but the recipient is never the speaker. This directional nature is what distinguishes it from other verbs like kureru, which means to give to the speaker. The concept of uchi and soto, or inside and outside groups, plays a massive role here. You give outward to the soto group. Beyond physical objects, ageru is extensively used as an auxiliary verb attached to the te-form of another verb to indicate doing a favor for someone. This is where the cultural nuance becomes critical. While saying you will do something for someone is polite in English, using te-ageru in Japanese can sometimes sound condescending or boastful, as if you are highlighting your own generosity. Therefore, it is typically reserved for close friends, family members, or people of lower social status.

Physical Giving: Transferring an object from the speaker to another person, such as a gift or money.

Watashi wa tomodachi ni purezento o あげる.

Action Giving: Performing a task or favor for someone else, utilizing the te-form of a verb.

Nimotsu o motte あげる.

The origins of the word ageru actually tie back to the physical action of raising something up. In historical contexts, when offering something to a person of higher status, one would physically raise the object above eye level as a sign of deep respect. This physical raising evolved into the abstract concept of giving. Today, while the standard ageru is used for equals or inferiors, the humble equivalent sashiageru literally means to thrust and raise, maintaining that historical imagery of offering upward. Furthermore, understanding when people use this word requires observing everyday Japanese life. During holidays like Valentine's Day, women give chocolates to men, an action perfectly described by ageru. During birthdays, anniversaries, or simple everyday moments of sharing food, ageru is the go-to verb.

Kore, anata ni あげる.

Third-Party Giving: Describing a situation where person A gives something to person B, neither being the speaker.

Kare wa kanojo ni hana o あげる.

However, if the third party is giving something to you, ageru becomes entirely incorrect. This strict boundary is what makes Japanese verbs of giving and receiving both fascinating and challenging for English speakers, who use the single word give for all directions. Mastering ageru is not just about memorizing a vocabulary word; it is about adopting a Japanese perspective on social dynamics, empathy, and the spatial relationship between individuals in a community.

Kodomo ni okashi o あげる.

In conclusion, ageru is a multifaceted verb that bridges the gap between physical transfer and emotional favor, deeply rooted in the cultural fabric of Japan.

Constructing sentences with the verb ageru requires a precise understanding of Japanese particle usage, specifically the particles wa, ga, ni, and o. The fundamental sentence structure for physical giving is: Giver wa/ga Recipient ni Object o ageru. The giver is marked by the topic particle wa or the subject particle ga. The recipient is marked by the target particle ni, and the object being given is marked by the direct object particle o. This structure remains consistent regardless of the tense or politeness level of the verb.

Basic Structure: [Giver] wa [Recipient] ni [Object] o ageru.

Watashi wa haha ni hana o あげる.

When you want to express doing a favor for someone, the structure shifts to incorporate the te-form of a verb. The formula becomes: Giver wa Recipient ni Action-te ageru.

Auxiliary Structure: [Giver] wa [Recipient] ni/o [Verb-te] ageru.

Watashi wa imouto ni hon o yonde あげる.

It is crucial to note that in natural Japanese conversation, the subject and even the recipient are frequently omitted if they are obvious from the context. If you are holding a present and looking directly at your friend, you would simply say Kore, ageru (I will give this to you), omitting both watashi wa and anata ni. Overusing pronouns like watashi and anata can make your Japanese sound unnatural and overly translated from English.

Kore, あげる yo.

Furthermore, the politeness level of ageru changes depending on the situation. The dictionary form ageru is used in casual contexts with friends and family. In polite company, you must use the masu-form, agemasu. If you are giving something to someone of significantly higher status, such as a boss or a teacher, ageru and agemasu are entirely replaced by the humble verb sashiageru or sashiagemasu.

Polite Form: Using agemasu in formal or semi-formal situations.

Sensei ni kanojo ga shashin o あげます.

Another important grammatical point is the past tense. Ageta is the casual past tense, and agemashita is the polite past tense. When recounting a story about giving a gift, these forms are essential.

Kino, tomodachi ni keki o あげた.

By mastering these sentence patterns, particle attachments, and politeness levels, learners can effectively navigate the complex web of Japanese giving and receiving, ensuring their intentions are communicated clearly and respectfully.

In everyday Japanese society, you will encounter the word ageru in a multitude of environments, ranging from casual family living rooms to bustling schoolyards and emotional television dramas. Because gift-giving is such a deeply ingrained part of Japanese culture, verbs of giving and receiving are used with a frequency that often surprises foreign learners. One of the most common places you will hear ageru is during seasonal gift-giving periods such as Ochugen in the summer and Oseibo in the winter. During these times, people discuss what they will give to colleagues, relatives, and friends.

Seasonal Events: Discussing gifts for Ochugen, Oseibo, New Year's (Otoshidama), and Valentine's Day.

Kotoshi wa nani o あげる tsumori desu ka.

You will also hear ageru constantly in anime and manga, particularly in slice-of-life or romantic comedy genres. Characters are frequently seen sharing food, lending items, or offering help. In these fictional contexts, the casual form ageru or the emphatic ageru yo is ubiquitous.

Boku no keshigomu o kashite あげる yo.

Parent-Child Interactions: Parents offering treats or help to their children.

Ato de aisu o katte あげる ne.

In family dynamics, parents use ageru when promising things to their children. A mother might say she will buy a toy or make a favorite meal, using te-ageru to show affection and care. However, it is important to note where you will NOT hear ageru. In strict corporate environments, when speaking to a client or a senior executive, using ageru to describe your own actions towards them is a major faux pas. In these settings, you will hear sashiageru instead.

Pet Ownership: Giving food to pets, though yaru is also common.

Inu ni esa o あげる jikan desu.

Interestingly, the usage of ageru has evolved. Historically, yaru was used for giving to inferiors, animals, or plants. Today, many younger Japanese people feel yaru is too harsh or rough, and they prefer to use ageru even when feeding a pet or watering a plant.

Hana ni mizu o あげる.

By paying attention to these contexts, learners can grasp not just the definition of the word, but its living, breathing application in Japanese society.

Learners of Japanese frequently stumble upon several common pitfalls when trying to master the verb ageru. Because the English word give is universally applied regardless of direction or social status, the strict rules governing Japanese giving verbs can feel unnatural and restrictive at first. The single most common mistake is using ageru when someone is giving something to the speaker. In English, you say I give to you and You give to me. In Japanese, if the recipient is the speaker or the speaker's in-group, you absolutely cannot use ageru; you must use kureru.

Directional Error: Using ageru for incoming gifts instead of kureru.

Incorrect: Kare wa watashi ni hon o あげた.

Another frequent and socially dangerous mistake involves the auxiliary usage te-ageru. While it translates to doing a favor for someone, using it towards a superior, a boss, or a teacher sounds incredibly arrogant. It implies that you are doing them a grand favor and that they should be grateful.

Politeness Error: Using te-ageru towards a person of higher status.

Incorrect: Sensei, tetsudatte あげます.

Instead of te-ageru, you should offer help using forms like tetsudaimashou ka (Shall I help?) or simply state your action humbly. A third mistake is confusing the kanji. While ageru for giving is historically linked to the kanji for raising, it is standard practice to write the giving verb in hiragana. Writing it in kanji can confuse readers, as they might initially interpret it as raising a physical object or raising a price.

Preferred: Purezento o あげる.

Kanji Confusion: Using the kanji for raising when meaning to give.

Confusing: Purezento o 上げる.

Finally, learners sometimes struggle with third-party giving. If person A gives to person B, and neither is the speaker, ageru is correct. However, if person B is a close family member of the speaker (in-group), kureru must be used because the action is moving toward the speaker's territory.

Correct: Kare wa imouto ni kureta. (Not あげた)

Avoiding these mistakes requires constant mindfulness of social hierarchy and spatial relationships in Japanese communication.

The Japanese language is rich with synonyms and nuanced alternatives for the concept of giving, forming a complex system of directional and polite verbs. Understanding how ageru fits into this ecosystem is vital for achieving fluency. The most direct alternative to ageru is yaru. Historically, yaru was the standard verb for giving to inferiors, animals, or plants. It carries a rougher, more masculine, or more casual tone. While still used today, especially by older men or in specific regions, many younger speakers prefer to use ageru even for pets to sound softer and more polite.

Yaru (やる): To give to an inferior, animal, or plant. Rougher nuance.

Neko ni miruku o yaru instead of あげる.

On the opposite end of the politeness spectrum is sashiageru. This is the humble equivalent of ageru. When you are giving something to a superior, a client, or a teacher, you must lower your own status to show respect. Sashiageru literally means to thrust and raise, painting a picture of offering something upward to someone of higher standing.

Sashiageru (差し上げる): Humble form of giving, used for superiors.

Okyakusama ni shiryō o sashiagemasu instead of あげます.

Another crucial set of alternatives are the inward-facing giving verbs: kureru and kudasaru. While ageru means I give to you, kureru means you give to me. Kudasaru is the respectful version of kureru, used when a superior gives something to you. These are not synonyms of ageru, but rather its directional opposites, and confusing them is a critical error.

Kureru (くれる): To give to the speaker or the speaker's in-group.

Tomodachi ga watashi ni kureta. (Never あげた)

Additionally, there are verbs that describe the physical act of handing something over without the emotional or directional baggage of ageru. Watasu means to hand over or pass. Okuru means to send or to gift, often used for formal presents sent via mail or presented at ceremonies. Ataeru means to bestow or provide, often used in academic or highly formal contexts, such as a university bestowing a degree or a situation providing an opportunity.

Nimotsu o watasu instead of あげる.

Purezento o okuru instead of あげる.

By mastering this spectrum of giving verbs, learners can express themselves with precision, cultural sensitivity, and appropriate politeness in any situation.

How Formal Is It?

Formal

"お客様に記念品を差し上げます。"

Neutral

"友達に本をあげます。"

Informal

"これ、あげるよ。"

Child friendly

"ワンちゃんにごはんをあげるね。"

Jerga

"マジでこれあげるわ。"

Dato curioso

Because 'ageru' means both 'to give' and 'to deep fry' (揚げる), a common pun in Japanese involves giving someone fried food. If you say 'Kore, ageru', you could be saying 'I'll give this to you' or 'I'll fry this'.

Guía de pronunciación

UK /a.ɡe.ɾɯ/

US /a.ɡe.ɾɯ/

In standard Tokyo dialect, the pitch accent is Heiban (flat). It starts low on 'a', rises on 'ge', and stays high on 'ru' and any following particles.

Rima con

にげる (nigeru) さげる (sageru) まげる (mageru) なげる (nageru) はげる (hageru) こげる (kogeru) とげる (togeru) さまたげる (samatageru)

Errores comunes

Pronouncing the 'r' in 'ru' as a hard English 'r' instead of a soft tap.
Stressing the first syllable heavily like an English word (AH-ge-ru). It should be flat.
Confusing the vowel sounds. 'a' is always 'ah', 'e' is always 'eh', 'u' is always 'oo'.
Adding a 'y' sound before the 'e' (a-gye-ru).
Making the vowels too long. Each syllable should be exactly one beat.

Nivel de dificultad

Lectura 2/5

Usually written in hiragana (あげる), making it very easy to read. If written in kanji (上げる), context is needed to distinguish 'give' from 'raise'.

Escritura 2/5

Very easy to write in hiragana.

Expresión oral 6/5

Pronunciation is easy, but choosing the correct directionality and politeness level in real-time conversation is challenging.

Escucha 5/5

Requires listening carefully to particles and context to understand who is giving to whom, especially when subjects are omitted.

Qué aprender después

Requisitos previos

私 (watashi - I) あなた (anata - you) に (ni - target particle) を (o - object particle) て形 (te-form of verbs)

Aprende después

くれる (kureru - to give to me) もらう (morau - to receive) 差し上げる (sashiageru - humble give) いただく (itadaku - humble receive) くださる (kudasaru - respectful give)

Avanzado

恩着せがましい (onkisegamashii - patronizing) 授与する (juyo suru - to award) 贈呈する (zoutei suru - to present) 施す (hodokosu - to give to charity) 献上する (kenjou suru - to present to royalty/gods)

Gramática que debes saber

Giving and Receiving Verbs (授受動詞)

あげる (outward), くれる (inward), もらう (receiving).

Te-form + Auxiliary Verbs (〜てあげる)

読んであげる (to read for someone).

Particle に for Recipients

友達【に】あげる (give TO a friend).

Omission of Subject/Object

(私はあなたにこれを) あげる。-> これ、あげる。

Keigo (Honorifics) Substitution

あげる -> 差し上げる (Humble).

Ejemplos por nivel

わたしはともだちにほんをあげます。

I give a book to my friend.

Basic structure: Giver WA Recipient NI Object O agemasu.

これはあなたにあげます。

I will give this to you.

Omitting the subject 'watashi wa' is natural here.

ははにはなをあげました。

I gave flowers to my mother.

Past tense polite form: agemashita.

だれにプレゼントをあげますか。

Who will you give the present to?

Question word 'dare' with particle 'ni'.

いもうとにケーキをあげる。

I will give cake to my younger sister.

Casual dictionary form 'ageru' used with family.

かれはかのじょにゆびわをあげました。

He gave her a ring.

Third party giving to another third party.

えんぴつをあげましょうか。

Shall I give you a pencil?

Volitional form 'agemashou ka' to offer something.

ちちにネクタイをあげたいです。

I want to give a tie to my father.

Desire form 'agetai' meaning want to give.

ともだちのしゅくだいをてつだってあげました。

I helped my friend with their homework.

Te-form + ageru to show doing a favor.

こどもにえほんをよんであげる。

I will read a picture book to my child.

Yonde (read) + ageru.

にもつをもってあげましょうか。

Shall I carry your luggage for you?

Motte (carry) + agemashou ka. Polite offer.

かのじょにしゃしんをみせてあげた。

I showed her the photos.

Misete (show) + ageta (past casual).

おいしいケーキをつくってあげます。

I will make a delicious cake for you.

Tsukutte (make) + agemasu.

みちをおしえてあげました。

I taught/showed them the way.

Oshiete (teach/tell) + agemashita.

かさをかしてあげるよ。

I'll lend you my umbrella.

Kashite (lend) + ageru + sentence ending particle 'yo'.

ドアをあけてあげます。

I will open the door for you.

Akete (open) + agemasu.

いぬにえさをあげるじかんです。

It's time to give food to the dog.

Using ageru instead of yaru for pets is common in modern Japanese.

せんせいにてつだってあげるというのはしつれいです。

It is rude to say 'I will help you' (using te-ageru) to a teacher.

Explaining the sociolinguistic rule of avoiding te-ageru with superiors.

かれがくるまをかしてあげるといっていました。

He was saying that he would lend you his car.

Quoted speech with ageru.

もっとはやくおしえてあげればよかった。

I should have told you earlier.

Conditional 'ageba' + yokatta (should have).

ともだちがこまっているなら、たすけてあげるべきだ。

If a friend is in trouble, you should help them.

Tasukete ageru + beki da (should).

おとうとにパソコンをつかわせてあげた。

I let my little brother use the computer.

Causative te-form (tsukawasete) + ageta (allowed him to use).

そんなにほしいなら、これをあげようか。

If you want it that much, shall I give this to you?

Volitional casual 'ageyou ka'.

ははのひになにを買ってあげたらいいとおもう？

What do you think I should buy for her for Mother's Day?

Katte agetara ii (what would be good to buy and give).

おきゃくさまにこちらのパンフレットをさしあげます。

I will give this pamphlet to the customer.

Using the humble form 'sashiageru' instead of 'ageru' for clients.

ぶちょうにおみやげをさしあげたほうがいいですか。

Should I give a souvenir to the department manager?

Sashiageta hou ga ii (is it better to give - humble).

せんせいにごれんらくしてあげるのはさけたほうがいい。

It's better to avoid doing the favor of contacting the teacher (using te-ageru).

Discussing the inappropriateness of te-ageru in formal contexts.

かれはじぶんのじかんをぎせいにしてまで、ひとをたすけてあげるようなひとだ。

He is the kind of person who will help others even at the sacrifice of his own time.

Complex sentence structure describing character using te-ageru.

むすこにくるまをかってあげるやくそくをした。

I made a promise to buy a car for my son.

Noun modification: katte ageru yakusoku (promise to buy and give).

おちゅうげんには、いつもおせわになっているかたにメロンをおくり、さしあげています。

For Ochugen, I send and give melons to those who always take care of me.

Combining okuru (send) and sashiageru (give humbly).

きみをゆるしてあげるわけにはいかない。

I cannot possibly forgive you.

Yurushite ageru + wake ni wa ikanai (cannot afford to / impossible to).

はなにおみずをあげるのをわすれないでね。

Don't forget to water the flowers.

Mizu o ageru (give water) used as a set phrase.

かれのぎょうせきをたたえ、しょうをあげることになった。

It was decided to give him an award in praise of his achievements.

Ageru used in a formal, institutional context (though ataeru or juyo suru is also common).

じょうしにたいして「やってあげる」というたいどをとるのはきわめてふゆかいだ。

Taking an 'I'll do it for you' attitude towards a boss is extremely unpleasant.

Metalinguistic discussion of the phrase 'yatte ageru'.

いくらおかねをあげたところで、かれのこころはみたされないだろう。

No matter how much money you give him, his heart will probably not be satisfied.

Ageta tokoro de (even if you give).

かのじょはいつもじぶんがしてあげたことばかりをおんきせがましくいう。

She always talks patronizingly only about the things she has done for others.

Shite ageta koto (things done for others) + onkisegamashiku (patronizingly).

こどもにじゆうをあたえるのと、なんでもゆるしてあげるのはちがう。

Giving a child freedom and forgiving them for everything are different things.

Contrasting ataeru (bestow) with yurushite ageru (do the favor of forgiving).

そのけんについては、わたしからしゃちょうにほうこくしてさしあげます。

Regarding that matter, I will do the favor of reporting it to the president for you.

Shite sashiagemasu (humble favor, implying the speaker is lowering themselves relative to the president, but doing a favor for the listener).

みかえりをもとめずにほどこしてあげるのがほんとうのじひである。

Giving charity without expecting anything in return is true compassion.

Hodokoshite ageru (do the favor of giving alms).

かれのプライドをたもってあげるために、あえてしらないふりをした。

I purposely pretended not to know in order to protect his pride.

Tamotte ageru (do the favor of maintaining).

にほんごのじゅじゅどうしは、はなしてのエンパシーのありかをめいかくにする。

Japanese giving and receiving verbs clarify the location of the speaker's empathy.

Academic discussion of 'juju doushi' (giving/receiving verbs).

「してあげる」というひょうげんにひそむびみょうなじょうげかんけいをさっするのが、コミュニケーションのかぎだ。

Sensing the subtle hierarchical relationship hidden in the expression 'shite ageru' is the key to communication.

Advanced sociolinguistic analysis.

かつては「やる」がいっぱんてきであったが、げんだいでは「あげる」へのいこうがすすんでいる。

Historically 'yaru' was common, but in modern times the shift towards 'ageru' is progressing.

Historical linguistic observation.

あえて「してあげる」ということで、かれはじぶんのゆういせいをあんじしていたのだろう。

By daring to say 'I'll do it for you', he was probably hinting at his own superiority.

Analyzing psychological intent behind verb choice.

ぶんみゃくからはんだんすると、ここではらいおとされているしゅごは、あきらかに「あげる」がわのにんげんである。

Judging from the context, the subject omitted here is clearly the person on the 'giving' side.

Literary analysis of omitted subjects based on verb directionality.

ぞうとうぶんかにおける「あげる」と「もらう」のサイクルが、しゃかいのけっそくをうみだしてきた。

The cycle of 'giving' and 'receiving' in gift culture has created social cohesion.

Sociological observation.

むやみにてをさしのべてあげることが、かえってあいてのじりつをさまたげることもある。

Reaching out to help someone recklessly can sometimes conversely hinder their independence.

Philosophical statement using sashinobete ageru.

かれのぎせいてきなこうどうは、たんに「してあげる」というレベルをはるかにこえていた。

His sacrificial actions went far beyond the mere level of 'doing a favor'.

Abstract conceptualization of the verb's limits.

Colocaciones comunes

プレゼントをあげる

お小遣いをあげる

餌をあげる

水をあげる

手伝ってあげる

教えてあげる

買ってあげる

見せてあげる

貸してあげる

連れて行ってあげる

Frases Comunes

これ、あげる。

やってあげる。

買ってあげるよ。

教えてあげる。

貸してあげる。

連れて行ってあげる。

読んであげる。

待っててあげる。

作ってあげる。

見せてあげる。

Se confunde a menudo con

あげる vs くれる (kureru)

Kureru means 'to give to me'. Ageru means 'I give to you'. They are directional opposites.

あげる vs もらう (morau)

Morau means 'to receive'. If I ageru a book, you morau the book.

あげる vs 上げる (ageru - to raise)

Pronounced exactly the same, but means to physically lift something up or increase a value (like prices).

Modismos y expresiones

"声をあげる (koe o ageru)"

To raise one's voice. Though it uses the same reading, it technically uses the kanji 上げる.

驚いて声をあげた。

Neutral

"例をあげる (rei o ageru)"

To give an example. Uses the kanji 挙げる.

いくつか例をあげて説明します。

Formal

"全力をあげる (zenryoku o ageru)"

To devote all one's energy. Uses the kanji 挙げる.

全力をあげて取り組みます。

Formal

"名をあげる (na o ageru)"

To make a name for oneself; to become famous. Uses the kanji 上げる or 揚げる.

彼は世界で名をあげた。

Neutral

"利益をあげる (rieki o ageru)"

To make a profit. Uses the kanji 上げる.

会社は大きな利益をあげた。

Business

"成果をあげる (seika o ageru)"

To achieve results. Uses the kanji 上げる.

プロジェクトで成果をあげる。

Business

"手をあげる (te o ageru)"

To raise one's hand (to surrender, or to strike someone). Uses the kanji 上げる.

子供に手をあげるのはよくない。

Neutral

"結婚式をあげる (kekkonshiki o ageru)"

To hold a wedding ceremony. Uses the kanji 挙げる.

ハワイで結婚式をあげる。

Neutral

"男をあげる (otoko o ageru)"

To raise one's reputation as a man. Uses the kanji 上げる.

あの決断で彼は男をあげた。

Idiomatic

"悲鳴をあげる (himei o ageru)"

To scream or cry out in pain/distress. Uses the kanji 上げる.

機械が悲鳴をあげている。

Idiomatic

Fácil de confundir

あげる vs くれる

Both translate to 'give' in English.

Ageru is used when the speaker gives to someone else, or a third party gives to a third party. Kureru is used ONLY when someone gives to the speaker or the speaker's in-group.

私はあげる (I give). 彼がくれる (He gives me).

あげる vs もらう

Related to the same transaction of giving/receiving.

Ageru focuses on the giver's action. Morau focuses on the recipient's action. [A] wa [B] ni ageru = A gives to B. [B] wa [A] ni morau = B receives from A.

私は本をあげる (I give a book). 私は本をもらう (I receive a book).

あげる vs やる

Synonym for ageru.

Yaru is rougher and historically used for inferiors, animals, or plants. Ageru is standard and polite for equals.

犬に餌をやる (Feed the dog). 友達にプレゼントをあげる (Give a present to a friend).

あげる vs 差し上げる

Formal version of ageru.

Sashiageru is humble Keigo. You use it to lower yourself when giving to a superior. Ageru is used for equals or inferiors.

先生に差し上げる (Give to teacher). 友達にあげる (Give to friend).

あげる vs 渡す

Means to hand over.

Watasu is just the physical action of passing an object. Ageru carries the emotional nuance of a gift or favor.

塩を渡す (Pass the salt). プレゼントをあげる (Give a present).

Patrones de oraciones

[Giver] は [Recipient] に [Object] をあげます。

私は母に花をあげます。

[Giver] は [Recipient] に [Verb-te] あげます。

私は妹に本を読んであげます。

[Object] をあげましょうか。

手伝ってあげましょうか。

[Object] をあげたいです。

プレゼントをあげたいです。

[Recipient] に [Object] をさしあげます。

お客様に資料をさしあげます。

[Verb-te] あげればよかった。

もっと早く教えてあげればよかった。

[Verb-te] あげるわけにはいかない。

簡単に許してあげるわけにはいかない。

あえて [Verb-te] あげる。

あえて知らないふりをしてあげる。

Familia de palabras

Sustantivos

Verbos

Adjetivos

Relacionado

Cómo usarlo

frequency

Extremely High. It is one of the top 100 most used verbs in the Japanese language.

Errores comunes

私は友達にプレゼントをくれた。 → 私は友達にプレゼントをあげた。
'Kureru' means someone gives to ME. If YOU are giving to someone else, you must use 'ageru'.
先生、私が手伝ってあげます。 → 先生、私が手伝いましょうか。
Using '~te ageru' with a teacher sounds arrogant, as if you are doing them a massive favor. Use a humble offer instead.
彼が私に本をあげた。 → 彼が私に本をくれた。
You cannot use 'ageru' when the recipient is yourself. The arrow is pointing inward, so you must use 'kureru'.
お客様にパンフレットをあげます。 → お客様にパンフレットを差し上げます。
In formal business situations, 'ageru' is not polite enough. You must use the humble form 'sashiageru'.
犬に餌を差し上げます。 → 犬に餌をあげます。（または、やります）
You do not use humble Keigo (sashiageru) for animals. Use 'ageru' or 'yaru'.

Consejos

Direction is Everything

Always visualize an arrow. If the arrow points away from you, use ageru. If it points toward you, use kureru.

Avoid Te-Ageru with Superiors

Never use '~te ageru' with a boss or teacher. It sounds like you are bragging about doing them a favor.

Stick to Hiragana

Write the giving verb as あげる, not 上げる, to avoid confusion with the verb 'to raise'.

Drop the Pronouns

Native speakers rarely say 'watashi' or 'anata'. Just say 'Kore, ageru' (I'll give this to you).

Pets and Plants

It is perfectly fine to use ageru for feeding pets or watering plants nowadays, though 'yaru' is the traditional word.

Third Party Giving

If Person A gives to Person B, and neither is you, use ageru (unless Person B is your family member, then use kureru).

Business Keigo

In business settings, replace ageru with sashiageru when dealing with clients or upper management.

Ichidan Conjugation

Ageru is a simple Ichidan verb. Just drop 'ru' to conjugate. Agete, ageta, agemasu, agetai.

Ageru vs Watasu

Use ageru for gifts and favors. Use watasu when you are just physically handing something over (like a document).

Listen for 'Ni'

The person marked by the particle 'ni' is the receiver. If 'ni' is attached to 'watashi', the verb will never be ageru.

Memorízalo

Mnemotecnia

Imagine you are a GIVER (a-ge-ru). You A-GE-RU (agree) to give your friend a present. The arrow points AWAY from you.

Asociación visual

Picture yourself holding a wrapped present and physically raising it up (the original meaning of ageru) as you hand it to a friend standing in front of you.

Word Web

Ageru (Give) -> Present (Purezento) -> Friend (Tomodachi) -> Away from me (Direction) -> Sashiageru (Humble) -> Kureru (Opposite direction) -> Te-ageru (Do a favor) -> Yaru (For pets)

Desafío

Next time you hand an object to someone, silently say 'ageru' in your head. If someone hands something to you, shake your head and think 'NOT ageru'.

Origen de la palabra

The verb 'ageru' originates from Old Japanese. It is fundamentally connected to the physical concept of upward movement. In ancient Japan, social hierarchy dictated physical posture. When offering something to a superior or a deity, one would literally raise the object above eye level to show respect and humility.

Significado original: To raise, to elevate, or to lift up.

Japonic -> Japanese

Contexto cultural

notes: Be highly sensitive to the usage of '~te ageru' (doing a favor). Using it with a boss or teacher is considered rude and patronizing. Always use humble alternatives or ask 'Shall I...?' instead.

English speakers often struggle because 'give' is universal. We say 'I give you' and 'You give me'. In Japanese, the verb itself changes based on the direction.

In the anime 'Anpanman', the hero literally breaks off pieces of his own head (made of bread) and gives them to hungry people, often accompanied by the concept of 'ageru' (giving). The song 'Ageru' by various Japanese pop artists often plays on the romantic themes of giving one's heart or time.

Practica en la vida real

Contextos reales

Birthdays and Celebrations

プレゼントをあげる
お祝いをあげる
ケーキを買ってあげる
サプライズをしてあげる

Helping Friends

手伝ってあげる
教えてあげる
貸してあげる
待っててあげる

Pet Care

餌をあげる
水をあげる
散歩に連れて行ってあげる
おやつをあげる

Romantic Relationships

指輪をあげる
花をあげる
チョコをあげる
愛をあげる

Parenting

お小遣いをあげる
絵本を読んであげる
おもちゃを買ってあげる
抱っこしてあげる

Inicios de conversación

"友達の誕生日に何をあげる予定ですか？ (What do you plan to give your friend for their birthday?)"

"最近、誰かに何かをしてあげたことはありますか？ (Have you done anything for anyone recently?)"

"バレンタインデーにチョコをあげる習慣についてどう思いますか？ (What do you think about the custom of giving chocolates on Valentine's Day?)"

"ペットにどんな餌をあげていますか？ (What kind of food do you give your pet?)"

"子供の頃、親に何を買ってあげたいと思っていましたか？ (When you were a child, what did you want to buy for your parents?)"

Temas para diario

今日、誰かに何かをあげた、またはしてあげたエピソードを書いてください。(Write an episode about something you gave or did for someone today.)

あなたが今まで誰かにあげたプレゼントの中で、一番喜ばれたものは何ですか？ (What is the present you gave someone that made them the happiest?)

「してあげる」という言葉を使うとき、どんなことに気をつけるべきだと思いますか？ (When using the phrase 'shite ageru', what do you think you should be careful about?)

日本の贈答文化（お中元やお歳暮）について、あなたの国の文化と比較して書いてください。(Write about Japan's gift-giving culture compared to your country's culture.)

もし100万円あったら、誰に何をあげたいですか？理由も書いてください。(If you had 1 million yen, who would you give what to? Write the reason too.)

Preguntas frecuentes

10 preguntas

No, absolutely not. This is the most common mistake. If the arrow of giving points toward you (the speaker), you must use 'kureru'. 'Ageru' is only for when the arrow points away from you.

Using '~te ageru' implies you are doing them a favor, which can sound arrogant or patronizing, especially to someone older or of higher status. It sounds like 'I'll do you the grand favor of helping'. It's better to say 'tetsudaimashou ka' (Shall I help?).

When meaning 'to give', it is standard practice to write it in hiragana. The kanji 上げる is usually reserved for the physical act of raising something (like raising your hand) or increasing something (like prices).

Yes. While traditionally 'yaru' was used for animals and plants, modern Japanese speakers, especially younger ones, frequently use 'ageru' for pets because it sounds softer and more affectionate.

'Ageru' is the standard verb for giving to equals or inferiors. 'Sashiageru' is the humble form used when giving to superiors (like a boss, teacher, or client). It literally means 'to thrust and raise', showing deep respect.

You use 'ageru'. Because both your mom and dad are in your 'uchi' (in-group), and the action doesn't involve you directly receiving it, 'ageru' is used to describe the transfer between them.

You use 'kureru'. Your sister is part of your 'uchi' (in-group). When an out-group member (friend) gives to your in-group (sister), the arrow is pointing toward your territory, so 'kureru' is required.

Yes, and you should! In natural Japanese, if you are holding a gift and looking at your friend, just saying 'Kore, ageru' is perfect. Saying 'Watashi wa anata ni kore o ageru' sounds robotic and unnatural.

It is an Ichidan (Group 2) verb. This means it conjugates easily by dropping the 'ru'. Stem: age. Polite: agemasu. Te-form: agete. Past: ageta.

You drop the 'ru' and add 'tai'. So, 'ageru' becomes 'agetai'. For example, 'Kore o agetai desu' means 'I want to give this'.