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共有する

A2 verb #1,500 most common 13 min read

共有する

kyouyuu suru Top 1,500

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips 共有する in 30 Seconds

Explanation 共有する in your Level:

At the A1 beginner level, you are just starting to learn how to navigate basic daily interactions in Japanese. While 共有する (kyouyuu suru) is technically an A2 level word, it is incredibly useful to recognize it early on because you will see it constantly on your digital devices. If your smartphone or computer is set to Japanese, the button you press to send a photo, a link, or a document to a friend will almost certainly say 共有 (kyouyuu). At this stage, you do not need to worry about using it in complex business sentences. Instead, focus on recognizing the kanji 共有 and understanding that it means share in a digital or abstract sense. You should also learn the basic sentence pattern: [Noun] を共有します (I will share [Noun]). For example, 写真を共有します (shashin o kyouyuu shimasu) means I will share the photo. It is also vital at this A1 level to learn what NOT to do. Do not use 共有する when you want to share your food. If you are eating a pizza and want to offer a slice to your friend, you should use the English loanword シェアする (shea suru) or the basic Japanese verb 分ける (wakeru). Using 共有する for a physical slice of pizza will sound very strange to Japanese speakers. Keep it simple: use 共有 for digital things like screens, links, and photos, and use シェア for physical things like food. Practice recognizing the word in your apps and listening for it when people talk about sending files or showing their screens. As you build your vocabulary, this word will become a foundational piece of your ability to communicate in modern, technology-driven environments. Remember that it is a Group 3 verb, so it conjugates just like 勉強する (benkyou suru) or 買い物する (kaimono suru). The polite form is 共有します, the negative is 共有しません, and the past is 共有しました. Mastering this basic recognition and conjugation will set you up for success as you move toward the A2 level.

At the A2 elementary level, you are expected to start using 共有する (kyouyuu suru) actively in your own sentences, particularly in practical, everyday situations. You should now be comfortable with the core meaning: sharing information, digital files, or abstract concepts, rather than physical objects. At this stage, you need to master the particles associated with this verb. The most important pattern to learn is [Person] と [Thing] を共有する (To share [Thing] with [Person]). The particle と (to) means with, and the particle を (o) marks the object being shared. For example, 友達と写真を共有しました (Tomodachi to shashin o kyouyuu shimashita) means I shared the photo with my friend. You should also be able to use the te-form to make polite requests. If you want someone to share a file with you, you can say ファイルを共有してください (Fairu o kyouyuu shite kudasai - Please share the file). This is an incredibly useful phrase if you are studying in a Japanese language school or working in an entry-level job in Japan. Furthermore, you will start encountering this word in simple business or academic contexts. A teacher might say 答えを共有しましょう (Kotae o kyouyuu shimashou - Let's share our answers). You should also practice using the potential form, 共有できる (kyouyuu dekiru - can share), which is very common when discussing digital files. For instance, このリンクは共有できます (Kono rinku wa kyouyuu dekimasu - This link can be shared). By the end of the A2 level, 共有する should be a natural part of your active vocabulary when discussing digital communication, collaborative tasks, and information exchange. You must firmly internalize the rule that 共有する is not for physical division; if you want to share a physical cake, you must switch to 分ける (wakeru) or シェアする (shea suru). Consistent practice with these sentence patterns will make your Japanese sound much more natural and contextually accurate.

At the B1 intermediate level, your usage of 共有する (kyouyuu suru) will expand significantly, particularly as you begin to navigate more complex social interactions and introductory business environments. You are no longer just sharing photos or links; you are now sharing ideas, schedules, goals, and values. You should be comfortable using abstract nouns with this verb. For example, you can say チームで目標を共有する (Chiimu de mokuhyou o kyouyuu suru - To share a goal within the team) or スケジュールを共有しておきます (Sukejuuru o kyouyuu shite okimasu - I will share the schedule in advance). Notice the use of the ~ておく (~te oku) grammar point, which indicates doing something in preparation for the future. This is a very natural way to use 共有する in a workplace setting. At this level, you should also be highly aware of the noun form, 情報共有 (jouhou kyouyuu - information sharing). This is a massive buzzword in Japanese corporate culture. You might hear phrases like 情報共有が不足している (Jouhou kyouyuu ga fusoku shite iru - There is a lack of information sharing). You will also start using more polite forms of the verb when interacting with superiors or clients. Instead of just saying 共有します, you should learn to say 共有させていただきます (Kyouyuu sasete itadakimasu - I will humbly take the liberty of sharing). This causative-passive structure is essential for polite business Japanese (Keigo). Additionally, you should be able to distinguish 共有する from its synonyms more clearly. While 共有する is great for information, if you want to express sharing an emotional experience, you should start using 分かち合う (wakachiau). For example, 喜びを分かち合う (Yorokobi o wakachiau - to share joy) sounds much more sophisticated and empathetic than 喜びを共有する. By mastering these nuances, compound nouns, and polite conjugations, your ability to collaborate and communicate effectively in a Japanese environment will improve dramatically.

At the B2 upper-intermediate level, your command of 共有する (kyouyuu suru) must be fluid, highly nuanced, and adaptable to various levels of formality, especially within professional and academic spheres. You are expected to participate in meetings, discussions, and collaborative projects where sharing complex information is routine. You will frequently use this verb in conjunction with advanced grammar structures. For instance, you might say 問題意識を共有した上で、議論を進めたいと思います (Mondai ishiki o kyouyuu shita ue de, giron o susumetai to omoimasu - I would like to proceed with the discussion upon sharing an awareness of the problem). Here, 共有する is used to establish a common ground or a shared understanding before taking further action. You should also be entirely comfortable with passive constructions, such as 情報が適切に共有されていない (Jouhou ga tekisetsu ni kyouyuu sarete inai - Information is not being shared appropriately). In business emails, you will use highly formal expressions like 先日の会議の議事録を共有いたしますので、ご査収ください (Senjitsu no kaigi no gijiroku o kyouyuu itashimasu node, gosashuu kudasai - I am sharing the minutes from the other day's meeting, so please review them). At this level, you must also understand the cultural weight of 共有 in Japan. It is not just a mechanical act of sending a file; it is a fundamental process of maintaining group harmony (和 - wa) and ensuring consensus (根回し - nemawashi). Failing to 共有する important information is considered a serious breach of professional etiquette. Furthermore, you should be able to discuss abstract societal concepts, such as 価値観の共有 (kachikan no kyouyuu - sharing of values) across different generations or cultures. Your vocabulary should include related terms like 共有財産 (kyouyuu zaisan - shared property/commons) and 共有フォルダ (kyouyuu foruda - shared folder). By integrating these advanced patterns and cultural understandings, you will sound like a highly competent and culturally aware speaker of Japanese.

At the C1 advanced level, your use of 共有する (kyouyuu suru) is expected to be near-native, characterized by effortless switching between registers and a deep understanding of its sociolinguistic implications. You are not just using the word; you are manipulating it to persuade, negotiate, and build consensus in high-stakes environments. You will use it to articulate complex philosophical, organizational, or societal concepts. For example, you might discuss the necessity of sharing a strategic vision in corporate restructuring: 全社的なビジョンを共有し、組織のベクトルを合わせることが不可欠である (Zenshateki na bijon o kyouyuu shi, soshiki no bekutoru o awaseru koto ga fukaketsu de aru - It is essential to share a company-wide vision and align the organization's vector). You will also encounter and use it in academic and journalistic contexts, such as 危機感の共有 (kikikan no kyouyuu - sharing a sense of crisis) regarding climate change or economic instability. At this level, you must flawlessly execute Keigo (honorific language) when using this verb. You will effortlessly produce phrases like こちらの資料を皆様と共有させていただきたく存じます (Kochira no shiryou o minasama to kyouyuu sasete itadakitaku zonjimasu - I would like to humbly share this document with everyone). You also understand when NOT to use 共有する. You know that overusing it in casual settings can sound pretentious or overly bureaucratic. You seamlessly substitute it with simpler verbs like 教える (oshieru) or 見せる (miseru) when chatting with friends. Furthermore, you can critically analyze the concept of 情報共有 (jouhou kyouyuu) itself, discussing its potential drawbacks, such as information overload or the illusion of communication. You are comfortable with legal and technical jargon involving the kanji 共有, such as 共有持分 (kyouyuu mochibun - shared ownership interest) in real estate. Your mastery of 共有する at the C1 level reflects a comprehensive grasp of Japanese professional culture, advanced syntax, and precise vocabulary selection.

At the C2 mastery level, your understanding and application of 共有する (kyouyuu suru) transcend basic communication; you utilize the term with the precision of a native scholar, diplomat, or senior executive. You are capable of deconstructing the cultural and psychological phenomena surrounding the concept of 共有 in Japanese society. You can engage in profound discourse on how the Japanese emphasis on 暗黙知の共有 (anmokuchi no kyouyuu - the sharing of tacit knowledge) drives innovation and organizational cohesion, contrasting it with Western models of explicit knowledge transfer. You wield the vocabulary effortlessly in the most demanding rhetorical situations, such as drafting corporate manifestos, delivering keynote speeches, or writing academic papers. For instance, you might articulate: 多様化する現代社会において、普遍的な価値観を共有することは極めて困難であるが、対話を通じて共通の基盤を模索する努力を怠ってはならない (Tayouka suru gendai shakai ni oite, fuhenteki na kachikan o kyouyuu suru koto wa kiwamete konnan de aru ga, taiwa o tsuujite kyoutsuu no kiban o mosaku suru doryoku o okotatte wa naranai - In our increasingly diverse modern society, sharing universal values is extremely difficult, yet we must not neglect the effort to seek a common foundation through dialogue). You have absolute mastery over all derivations and compound forms, such as 共有知 (kyouyuuchi - shared knowledge/commons) and 空間の共有 (kuukan no kyouyuu - the sharing of space), understanding their subtle nuances in architecture, sociology, and philosophy. Your use of honorifics (Keigo) is impeccable and instinctive, allowing you to navigate the most delicate power dynamics when requesting or offering shared resources. You recognize the historical evolution of the word and its kanji, understanding how the digital age has fundamentally shifted its primary usage from physical joint ownership to intangible data access. At this pinnacle of language proficiency, 共有する is not merely a vocabulary word; it is a conceptual tool that you use to analyze, influence, and connect with the deepest layers of Japanese thought and societal structure.

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips

共有する in 30 Seconds

Used for sharing digital files.
Used for sharing information.
Used for sharing abstract ideas.
Not used for physical division.

To truly understand the Japanese verb 共有する (kyouyuu suru), we must first break down its fundamental components and explore the deep cultural and linguistic contexts in which it is utilized by native speakers on a daily basis. The word is composed of two primary kanji characters, followed by the auxiliary verb する (suru), which transforms the noun into an action. The first kanji is 共 (kyou), which carries the meaning of together, both, or sharing. It implies a strong sense of mutuality, collective experience, and doing things in unison with others. The second kanji is 有 (yuu), which means to exist, to possess, or to have. When these two characters are combined into the compound noun 共有 (kyouyuu), the literal translation becomes joint ownership or co-possession. However, in modern Japanese, especially in everyday conversation, digital communication, and business environments, the meaning has expanded significantly beyond strict legal or physical ownership. Today, 共有する is the standard and most widely used term for to share in a variety of abstract, informational, and digital contexts.

会議の前に資料を共有する。

When you share a file, a document, a screen during a video conference, or a piece of important information with your colleagues, you are performing the act of 共有する. It is absolutely crucial to distinguish this type of sharing from the physical division of an object. For example, if you have a single pizza or a cake and you want to share it with your friends by cutting it into slices and giving everyone a piece, you would not typically use 共有する.

Physical vs Abstract: Use 分ける (wakeru) for dividing physical items, and 共有する for abstract concepts or digital files.

Instead, you would use words like 分ける (wakeru - to divide) or the loanword シェアする (shea suru - to share). 共有する implies that the thing being shared remains intact and is accessed or experienced by multiple people simultaneously or collectively without being diminished.

私たちのチームは同じ目標を共有する。

You can share a living space, you can share core values (価値観を共有する - kachikan o kyouyuu suru), and you can share a common goal or vision for the future. This distinction is a frequent stumbling block for English speakers learning Japanese, because the English word share covers both the physical division of a resource and the collective access to an intangible asset. In Japanese, the vocabulary is much more specialized and context-dependent.

画面を共有する方法を教えてください。

Furthermore, the concept of 共有 is deeply embedded in Japanese corporate culture, where 情報共有 (jouhou kyouyuu - information sharing) is considered a fundamental pillar of teamwork, harmony, and organizational efficiency.

Business Context: Information sharing is vital in Japanese companies. Ho-Ren-So (Report, Contact, Consult) relies heavily on 共有.

Employees are constantly encouraged to share updates, progress reports, and potential issues with their team members to ensure everyone is on the exact same page. This practice minimizes misunderstandings and fosters a highly collaborative environment.

スケジュールをチーム全体で共有する。

Beyond the workplace, 共有する is also incredibly prevalent in the modern digital age. When you share a web link, a digital photograph, or a post on various social media platforms, the user interface often uses the word 共有 or the katakana equivalent. Understanding the nuanced application of 共有する allows learners to communicate more precisely, naturally, and professionally in Japanese.

Digital Context: In software and apps, sharing a file to the cloud or sending a link is universally referred to as 共有.

It demonstrates an awareness of the language's preference for distinguishing between dividing a physical object and jointly accessing or experiencing something intangible. As you continue to study Japanese, you will encounter this word in countless scenarios, from casual conversations about shared interests to formal business meetings discussing shared strategies.

素晴らしい経験を友人と共有する。

Mastering its usage is an essential step toward achieving true fluency and cultural competence in Japanese society.

Learning how to properly construct sentences using 共有する (kyouyuu suru) is an essential skill for any Japanese learner, as it requires an understanding of specific particles and grammatical structures that dictate how the action of sharing is directed and received. The most fundamental particle used with 共有する is the object marker を (o). This particle indicates the direct object of the sentence, which is the specific thing that is being shared.

私はそのリンクを共有する。

For instance, if you want to say I will share the information, you would say 情報を共有します (jouhou o kyouyuu shimasu). The information (情報) is the direct object, marked by を. However, sharing is rarely a solitary action; it usually involves another party. To specify the person or group with whom you are sharing something, you must use the particle と (to), which translates to with, or the particle に (ni), which indicates the direction or target of the action.

Particle Usage: Use を for the item being shared, and と or に for the person you are sharing it with.

Therefore, a complete and highly natural sentence structure would be [Person] と [Thing] を共有する.

チームメンバーとアイデアを共有する。

For example, I share ideas with my team members translates to チームメンバーとアイデアを共有します (chiimu menbaa to aidea o kyouyuu shimasu). It is also important to understand how to conjugate 共有する to fit different levels of formality and different tenses. Because it is a suru-verb (Group 3), the conjugation is straightforward and follows the standard rules for this verb class. In formal situations, such as speaking to a boss, a client, or someone you do not know well, you should use the polite masu-form: 共有します (kyouyuu shimasu).

後で詳細を共有します。

If you have already shared something, you would use the past polite form: 共有しました (kyouyuu shimashita). In casual conversations with close friends or family members, you can use the dictionary form 共有する (kyouyuu suru) for the present or future tense, and the ta-form 共有した (kyouyuu shita) for the past tense.

Conjugation: As a Group 3 verb, it conjugates as します (polite present), しました (polite past), しない (casual negative).

Furthermore, when you want to request someone to share something with you, you can use the te-form combined with kudasai.

その写真を私にも共有してください。

Please share the document would be 資料を共有してください (shiryou o kyouyuu shite kudasai). In highly formal business emails, you might see even more polite forms, such as 共有させていただきます (kyouyuu sasete itadakimasu), which humbly means I will take the liberty of sharing. Another common pattern is using the potential form to express the ability to share. If a file is too large and cannot be shared, you might say ファイルが大きすぎて共有できません (fairu ga ookisugite kyouyuu dekimasen).

Potential Form: 共有できる (can share) and 共有できない (cannot share) are extremely common in IT and office contexts.

By mastering these sentence patterns, particles, and conjugations, you will be able to fluidly and accurately express the concept of sharing in a wide variety of contexts, ensuring that your Japanese sounds natural and sophisticated.

このフォルダは全員がアクセスし、共有できる状態です。

Practice combining different nouns with 共有する to build your confidence.

The verb 共有する (kyouyuu suru) is ubiquitous in modern Japanese society, and you will encounter it across a vast spectrum of daily situations, ranging from highly formal corporate boardrooms to casual interactions on digital platforms. One of the most prominent environments where this word is used continuously is the Japanese workplace.

本日の会議の議事録を共有します。

In business settings, the concept of sharing information is paramount to maintaining harmony and ensuring that projects run smoothly. You will frequently hear managers instructing their teams to share updates, saying things like 進捗を共有してください (shinchoku o kyouyuu shite kudasai - please share your progress).

Corporate Meetings: It is standard protocol to share meeting minutes (議事録) and presentation slides with all attendees after a meeting concludes.

During presentations or video conferences, phrases like 画面を共有します (gamen o kyouyuu shimasu - I will share my screen) have become an everyday staple, especially with the rise of remote work.

皆様、私の画面は共有されていますでしょうか。

Beyond the corporate world, the digital landscape is another major domain for 共有する. Whether you are using a smartphone, a tablet, or a computer, the operating systems and applications localized for the Japanese market rely heavily on this term. When you want to send a funny video to a friend, upload a document to a cloud storage service, or post a photo album online, the action button you click will often say 共有.

Social Media: While シェア (share) is popular on platforms like Facebook, 共有 is the standard technical term used in iOS and Android menus.

Furthermore, 共有する is frequently used in interpersonal relationships and psychological contexts.

夫婦で家事の負担を共有する。

When discussing relationships, people often talk about sharing values, sharing a vision for the future, or sharing a living space. For example, a couple might discuss the importance of 価値観を共有する (kachikan o kyouyuu suru - sharing values) to ensure a long-lasting marriage. You might also hear it in news broadcasts or documentaries when experts discuss society sharing a common problem or a collective memory.

国民全体でこの危機感を共有する必要がある。

In educational settings, teachers encourage students to share their findings or opinions with the class, fostering an environment of collaborative learning.

Education: Teachers often say 意見を共有しましょう (Let's share our opinions) during group discussions.

The versatility of 共有する makes it an indispensable part of the Japanese vocabulary. By paying attention to the contexts in which native speakers use this word, you will gain a deeper appreciation for how Japanese culture values collective knowledge, mutual understanding, and seamless communication across all aspects of life.

感動を世界中のファンと共有する。

Whether you are navigating a complex business project, managing your digital life, or building deep personal connections, 共有する is a word you will rely on constantly.

When English speakers learn the Japanese word 共有する (kyouyuu suru), they often fall into several predictable traps due to the broad nature of the English word share. The most frequent and glaring mistake is using 共有する when referring to the physical division of a tangible object.

❌ ケーキを共有する。 (Incorrect for physical division)

In English, it is perfectly natural to say I shared my sandwich with him or Let's share this pizza. However, if you translate this directly into Japanese as サンドイッチを共有する (sandoitchi o kyouyuu suru), it sounds incredibly unnatural and almost comical to a native speaker. It implies a bizarre scenario where two people are jointly owning the sandwich or perhaps taking turns holding it without consuming it.

Physical Sharing: For physical items that are divided and consumed, you must use 分ける (wakeru) or 分け合う (wakeau).

The correct way to express sharing a physical item is to use the verb 分ける (wakeru - to divide) or the loanword シェアする (shea suru).

⭕️ ケーキを分ける。 (Correct)

Another common mistake involves confusing 共有する with 伝える (tsutaeru - to convey or to tell). While sharing information (情報を共有する) is a valid and common phrase, sometimes learners use 共有する when they simply mean to tell someone a specific message or pass on a simple fact. For example, if you want to say Please share this message with John, saying このメッセージをジョンに共有してください is understandable, but ジョンに伝えてください (Jon ni tsutaete kudasai - Please tell John) is much more natural for a simple, one-way communication.

Conveying vs Sharing: 共有する implies mutual access to information. 伝える is a direct transfer of a message from point A to point B.

Furthermore, learners sometimes struggle with the correct particles. As mentioned earlier, the object being shared takes を, and the person it is shared with takes と or に.

❌ 友達を写真を共有する。 (Incorrect particle)

Using を twice (e.g., 友達を写真を共有する) is grammatically incorrect and confusing. You must say 友達と写真を共有する (tomodachi to shashin o kyouyuu suru). Lastly, be careful not to overuse 共有する in highly casual, spoken contexts where a simpler word might suffice. While it is perfectly fine to use it casually for digital sharing (like sending a link), using it for very trivial matters can sound overly stiff or business-like.

⭕️ 友達と写真を共有する。 (Correct particle)

In casual speech, people often just say 見せる (miseru - to show) or 送る (okuru - to send) instead of the heavier 共有する.

Over-formality: Don't use 共有する when simply showing a friend a funny picture on your phone. Just say これ見て (Look at this).

By avoiding these common pitfalls—especially the physical vs. abstract distinction—you will ensure that your Japanese sounds natural, contextually appropriate, and grammatically precise.

その話、後で共有してね。 (Casual but appropriate for information)

Practice identifying whether you are dividing a physical object or granting access to information before choosing your verb.

The Japanese language offers a rich vocabulary for expressing different nuances of sharing, and understanding the alternatives to 共有する (kyouyuu suru) will greatly enhance your ability to communicate precisely. While 共有する is the go-to word for abstract and digital sharing, there are several other verbs and phrases that you must know to navigate different contexts effectively.

喜びを分かち合う。

One of the most beautiful and poetic alternatives is 分かち合う (wakachiau). This verb translates to to share, but it carries a deep emotional weight. It is used almost exclusively for sharing feelings, experiences, burdens, joy, or sorrow.

Emotional Sharing: Use 分かち合う when sharing emotions or burdens. It sounds much warmer and more empathetic than 共有する.

For example, 喜びを分かち合う (yorokobi o wakachiau) means to share joy, and 苦しみを分かち合う (kurushimi o wakachiau) means to share suffering. While you could technically use 共有する in these contexts, 分かち合う sounds much more natural, empathetic, and human.

ピザをみんなでシェアする。

Another extremely common alternative is the loanword シェアする (shea suru), derived directly from the English word share. In modern Japanese, particularly among younger generations and in casual contexts, シェアする has become incredibly versatile. Unlike 共有する, which is restricted to abstract or digital items, シェアする can be used for physical things! You can say ピザをシェアする (piza o shea suru - to share a pizza) or デザートをシェアする (dezato o shea suru - to share a dessert). It is also widely used for social media, such as 記事をシェアする (kiji o shea suru - to share an article).

Physical Division: When dividing a physical object like food or money, the traditional Japanese verb is 分ける (wakeru).

For strictly physical division, the traditional Japanese verb is 分ける (wakeru - to divide). If you have one apple and you want to give half to a friend, you use 分ける.

利益を平等に分ける。

If you want to emphasize that multiple people are using a physical facility or equipment together, you might use 共同 (kyoudou - joint use or cooperation). For example, a shared kitchen in a dormitory is a 共同キッチン (kyoudou kitchin), not a 共有キッチン. Lastly, if your goal is simply to pass information to someone, verbs like 伝える (tsutaeru - to convey), 教える (oshieru - to teach/tell), or 知らせる (shiraseru - to inform) are often more appropriate than 共有する.

Informing: If you just want to let someone know something, use 知らせる (shiraseru) instead of the heavier 共有する.

Choosing the right word depends entirely on what is being shared (physical vs. abstract), the emotional tone of the conversation, and the level of formality required.

みんなで使う共同のスペースです。

By mastering these alternatives, you will speak Japanese with much greater nuance, clarity, and cultural appropriateness.

そのニュースを彼に伝えてください。

Always pause to consider the nature of the object and the context before automatically translating the English word share into 共有する.

How Formal Is It?

Fun Fact

While '共有' originally meant joint ownership of physical property, the digital revolution completely hijacked the word. When tech companies needed a Japanese translation for the 'Share' button in software, they chose '共有'. Now, 90% of its daily usage is digital!

Pronunciation Guide

UK /kjoʊjuː sɯrɯ/

US /kjoʊjuː sɯrɯ/

kyou-YUU-su-ru (Pitch accent in standard Tokyo dialect: The pitch starts low on 'kyo', rises on 'u', stays high on 'yu', and drops on 'u' and 'suru'. It is a Nakadaka/Heiban hybrid depending on conjugation, but generally read flat as kyo-o-yu-u-su-ru).

Rhymes With

所有する (shoyuu suru - to own) 要求する (youkyuu suru - to demand) 追求する (tsuikyuu suru - to pursue) 合流する (gouryuu suru - to merge/join) 交流する (kouryuu suru - to interact) 漂流する (hyouryuu suru - to drift) 上流 (jouryuu - upstream) 保留する (horyuu suru - to put on hold)

Common Errors

Pronouncing 'kyou' as two separate syllables 'ki-yo'. It should be one smooth glide: 'kyo' with a long 'o'.
Shortening the long vowels. Saying 'kyoyu' instead of 'kyouyuu' changes the rhythm and can make it hard for native speakers to understand.
Pronouncing the 'r' in 'suru' like a hard English 'r'. Use a light tap of the tongue behind the upper teeth.
Adding an English-style stress accent. Japanese uses pitch, not stress. Keep the volume even.
Saying 'shiru' instead of 'suru'. Make sure the final verb is 'suru' (to do).

Difficulty Rating

Reading 4/5

The kanji 共 (Grade 4) and 有 (Grade 3) are common, but the compound requires understanding abstract concepts.

Writing 5/5

Writing the kanji from memory can be slightly tricky for beginners, especially balancing the strokes of 共.

Speaking 3/5

Pronunciation is straightforward, and the suru-verb conjugation is the easiest in Japanese.

Listening 3/5

Very easy to catch in business or digital contexts because it is used so frequently.

What to Learn Next

Prerequisites

する (to do) 情報 (information) 画面 (screen) ファイル (file) と (particle: with)

Learn Next

分ける (to divide/share physically) 伝える (to convey) 共同 (joint/cooperation) 共通 (common) シェアする (to share - loanword)

Advanced

暗黙知 (tacit knowledge) 還元する (to return/give back) 占有する (to exclusively possess) 帰属する (to belong to) 合意形成 (consensus building)

Grammar to Know

Particle を (Direct Object)

資料【を】共有する (Share the document)

Particle と (Mutual Action / With)

チーム【と】情報を共有する (Share info with the team)

〜ておく (Preparation)

事前にファイルを共有し【ておきます】 (I will share the file in advance)

〜させていただく (Humble Causative-Passive)

画面を共有【させていただきます】 (I will humbly share my screen)

Noun + の (Modification)

情報【の】共有が大切です (The sharing of information is important)

Examples by Level

写真を共有します。

I will share the photo.

Uses the polite present/future form します with the object particle を.

リンクを共有してください。

Please share the link.

Uses the te-form + ください to make a polite request.

画面を共有します。

I will share my screen.

A very common phrase in online meetings. 画面 means screen.

友達と情報を共有する。

I share information with my friend.

Uses the particle と to indicate 'with' whom the information is shared.

このファイルを共有しました。

I shared this file.

Uses the polite past tense しました.

動画を共有しませんか。

Won't you share the video? / Let's share the video.

Uses the negative question form しませんか to make a suggestion or invitation.

パスワードは共有しないでください。

Please do not share the password.

Uses the negative te-form + ください for a prohibition.

家族とカレンダーを共有します。

I share a calendar with my family.

Combines the 'with' particle と and the object particle を.

会議の前に資料を共有しておきます。

I will share the documents in advance before the meeting.

Uses ~ておく to indicate an action done in preparation for the future.

このアプリで位置情報を共有できます。

You can share your location information with this app.

Uses the potential form できます to express ability.

みんなでアイデアを共有しましょう。

Let's share our ideas together.

Uses the volitional form ~ましょう to say 'let's do something'.

彼と趣味を共有するのは楽しいです。

It is fun to share hobbies with him.

Uses ~のは to nominalize the verb phrase, making it the subject of the sentence.

まだスケジュールが共有されていません。

The schedule has not been shared yet.

Uses the passive form される combined with the negative state ~ていません.

先生が画面を共有するのを待っています。

I am waiting for the teacher to share the screen.

Uses のを to nominalize the action of the teacher sharing the screen.

新しいニュースをグループチャットで共有した。

I shared the new news in the group chat.

Uses the casual past tense した and the particle で to indicate the medium/location.

情報を共有することが大切です。

It is important to share information.

Uses ことが to turn the verb into a noun phrase acting as the subject.

プロジェクトの進捗をチーム全体で共有する必要があります。

We need to share the project's progress with the entire team.

Uses ~必要があります to express necessity.

価値観を共有できるパートナーを探しています。

I am looking for a partner with whom I can share my values.

Uses the potential form as a modifier for the noun パートナー.

先ほどの会議の議事録をメールで共有させていただきます。

I will take the liberty of sharing the minutes of the previous meeting via email.

Uses the highly polite causative-passive form ~させていただきます.

クラウドを使って大容量のファイルを共有する。

To share large files using the cloud.

Uses the te-form 使って to indicate the method or means of doing the action.

情報共有が遅れたため、問題が発生しました。

A problem occurred because the information sharing was delayed.

Uses the noun form 情報共有 and ため to indicate cause/reason.

このフォルダは社外の人とは共有しないでください。

Please do not share this folder with people outside the company.

Uses the combination of particles とは to emphasize 'with (outsiders)' in a negative context.

目標を共有することで、チームのモチベーションが上がります。

By sharing goals, the team's motivation increases.

Uses ことで to indicate the means or cause (by doing...).

彼は自分の経験をブログで共有し続けている。

He continues to share his experiences on his blog.

Uses the compound verb ~続ける to indicate continuous action.

顧客のフィードバックを開発部門と迅速に共有する体制を整える。

To establish a system to rapidly share customer feedback with the development department.

Uses the verb to modify the noun 体制 (system/structure).

暗黙知を形式知化し、組織全体で共有することが今後の課題だ。

Converting tacit knowledge into explicit knowledge and sharing it across the organization is a future challenge.

Combines complex academic/business vocabulary (暗黙知, 形式知化) with the verb.

この記事は非常に有益なので、SNSで広く共有されるべきだ。

This article is highly beneficial, so it should be widely shared on social media.

Uses the passive form される combined with べきだ (should).

問題意識を共有した上で、具体的な解決策を議論しましょう。

Let's discuss specific solutions upon sharing an awareness of the problem.

Uses ~た上で to indicate that one action is a prerequisite for the next.

セキュリティの観点から、機密情報の共有には細心の注意を払う必要がある。

From a security perspective, it is necessary to pay close attention to the sharing of confidential information.

Uses the noun form 共有 as the target of the action 注意を払う (to pay attention).

異なる文化背景を持つ人々と空間を共有する際のマナーを学ぶ。

To learn the manners for when sharing a space with people from different cultural backgrounds.

Uses 際 (sai) as a formal alternative to 時 (toki) for 'when'.

ビジョンが共有されていない組織は、変化に対応できない。

An organization where the vision is not shared cannot adapt to change.

Uses the negative passive state されていない to modify the noun 組織.

本日のプレゼン資料は、後ほどPDF形式で皆様に共有いたします。

I will share today's presentation materials with everyone in PDF format later.

Uses the humble form いたします to show respect to the audience.

全社的な危機感を共有し、抜本的な改革を推し進める覚悟が求められている。

There is a demand for the resolve to share a company-wide sense of crisis and push forward with radical reforms.

Uses advanced vocabulary (抜本的, 推し進める) and the passive 求められている.

プラットフォーム上で生成されたデータは、ユーザー間でシームレスに共有される仕組みとなっている。

The data generated on the platform is structured to be seamlessly shared among users.

Uses ~仕組みとなっている to describe a built-in system or structure.

歴史的背景を共有しない相手に対し、自国の論理を押し付けるのは避けるべきだ。

One should avoid forcing one's own country's logic onto a counterpart with whom one does not share a historical background.

Uses the negative form to modify 相手 (counterpart) in a complex sociopolitical context.

この知見は一部の専門家のみに留めず、広く社会全体に共有還元されるべき性質のものである。

This knowledge is of a nature that should not be restricted to a few experts but should be widely shared and returned to society as a whole.

Combines 共有 with 還元 (return/give back) to express a noble obligation.

リモートワークの普及により、非同期での情報共有の重要性がかつてなく高まっている。

With the spread of remote work, the importance of asynchronous information sharing is higher than ever before.

Uses the noun form in a highly formal, analytical sentence structure.

著作権法に抵触しない範囲で、教育目的のコンテンツを共有するガイドラインを策定した。

We have formulated guidelines for sharing educational content within a scope that does not conflict with copyright law.

Uses ~範囲で to specify a limit or condition for the action of sharing.

深い悲しみを共有することで、遺族たちは互いに慰め合い、立ち直る糸口を見出した。

By sharing their deep sorrow, the bereaved families comforted each other and found a clue to recovery.

Uses 共有 in a profound emotional context, paired with complex verbs like 慰め合う and 見出す.

オープンソースの精神は、ソースコードを共有し、集合知によってソフトウェアを発展させることにある。

The spirit of open source lies in sharing source code and developing software through collective intelligence.

Uses ~ことにある to define the essence or core principle of a concept.

現代の資本主義社会において、富の偏在を是正し、繁栄をいかに共有するかが最大の政治的課題である。

In modern capitalist society, how to correct the maldistribution of wealth and share prosperity is the greatest political challenge.

Uses いかに〜するか to embed a complex question into a formal statement.

言語という媒体を通じて、我々は個人の内面世界を他者と共有するという奇跡を日常的に成し遂げている。

Through the medium of language, we routinely accomplish the miracle of sharing our inner personal worlds with others.

Uses 共有する conceptually to discuss the philosophical nature of communication.

当該特許技術は複数企業による共有特許権として登録されており、その実施には各共有者の同意を要する。

The patent technology in question is registered as a shared patent right by multiple companies, and its implementation requires the consent of each co-owner.

Uses legal terminology (共有特許権, 共有者) demonstrating mastery of domain-specific vocabulary.

世代間で記憶を共有する回路が断絶しつつある現状に、強い危惧を抱かざるを得ない。

I cannot help but harbor strong fears about the current situation where the circuits for sharing memories between generations are breaking down.

Uses the highly formal and literary expression ~ざるを得ない (cannot help but).

生態系サービスの恩恵は、特定の国家に帰属するものではなく、全人類が共有すべきグローバル・コモンズである。

The benefits of ecosystem services do not belong to any specific nation but are global commons that all of humanity should share.

Discusses global environmental ethics using advanced phrasing like 帰属する and グローバル・コモンズ.

リーダーの真の役割は、単に指示を下すことではなく、組織の存在意義をメンバーの魂のレベルで共有させることにある。

The true role of a leader is not simply to give orders, but to make members share the organization's raison d'être at a soul level.

Uses the causative form 共有させる to indicate making or guiding someone to share something profound.

デジタルアーカイブの構築により、散逸の危機にあった貴重な歴史的文献が、時空を超えて共有される基盤が整った。

Through the construction of digital archives, a foundation has been laid for precious historical documents, which were in danger of being scattered and lost, to be shared across time and space.

Uses poetic and highly formal vocabulary (散逸, 時空を超えて) combined with passive sharing.

自己の脆弱性を隠蔽するのではなく、あえて他者と共有することによって構築される、強靭な信頼関係が存在する。

There exists a resilient relationship of trust that is built not by concealing one's own vulnerabilities, but by daring to share them with others.

Uses advanced psychological concepts (脆弱性, 隠蔽) and the adverb あえて (daringly/purposefully).

Common Collocations

情報を共有する

画面を共有する

ファイルを共有する

価値観を共有する

目標を共有する

スケジュールを共有する

意識を共有する

リンクを共有する

位置情報を共有する

感動を共有する

Common Phrases

情報共有のお願い

— A formal request for information sharing. Often used as the subject line in business emails.

【重要】プロジェクトに関する情報共有のお願い

共有させていただきます

— I will humbly share. A very polite Keigo expression used in business when you are about to share a document or screen.

それでは、画面を共有させていただきます。

共有ありがとうございます

— Thank you for sharing. A standard polite reply when someone sends you a file or information.

資料の共有ありがとうございます。確認いたします。

共有フォルダ

— Shared folder. A digital folder accessible by multiple people on a network or cloud.

データは共有フォルダに保存してください。

画面共有

— Screen sharing. The noun form used to describe the feature in video conferencing apps.

画面共有の権限を付与してください。

共有事項

— Matters to be shared / Announcements. Used in meetings to list things everyone needs to know.

本日の共有事項は３点あります。

共有リンク

— Shareable link. A URL generated to give others access to a specific file or webpage.

共有リンクを発行して送ります。

共有スペース

— Shared space. A physical area meant for communal use, though 共同スペース is also common.

マンションの共有スペースを掃除する。

共有ボタン

— Share button. The UI element on websites and apps used to share content.

右上の共有ボタンを押してください。

認識を共有する

— To share an understanding / To be on the same page. Used to ensure everyone agrees on the facts of a situation.

現状の課題について認識を共有しましょう。

Often Confused With

共有する vs 分ける (wakeru)

Learners confuse this when talking about physical objects. '分ける' is for dividing a physical pizza; '共有する' is for sharing a digital file.

共有する vs 伝える (tsutaeru)

Learners use '共有する' when they just mean 'to tell'. '伝える' is a one-way message; '共有する' implies mutual access to information.

共有する vs 教える (oshieru)

Means 'to teach' or 'to tell'. Often used casually to ask for information (e.g., 'Tell me your number'), where English speakers might say 'Share your number'.

Idioms & Expressions

"喜びは倍に、悲しみは半分に"

— Joy shared is doubled, sorrow shared is halved. While it doesn't use the word 共有 explicitly, it embodies the Japanese cultural ideal of sharing emotions (分かち合う).

夫婦とは、喜びは倍に、悲しみは半分にするものだ。

Proverb/Literary

"寝食を共にする"

— To share bed and board; to live together. Uses the kanji 共 (kyou) from 共有 to express a deep bond formed by living and eating together.

彼とは合宿で寝食を共にした仲だ。

Idiom/Formal

"苦楽を共にする"

— To share joys and sorrows. Another idiom using the kanji 共, expressing going through good and bad times together.

私たちは長年、苦楽を共にしてきた仲間です。

Idiom/Formal

"運命を共にする"

— To share the same fate. Used when people are in a situation where they will succeed or fail together.

このプロジェクトのメンバーは運命を共にしている。

Idiom/Formal

"一枚岩になる"

— To become a monolith; to be united. Implies that a group has perfectly shared goals and information, acting as one.

チームが一枚岩となって困難に立ち向かう。

Idiom/Business

"足並みを揃える"

— To keep in step with; to align. Often the result of good 情報共有 (information sharing) in a business setting.

他部署と足並みを揃えてプロジェクトを進める。

Idiom/Business

"ツーカーの仲"

— An unspoken understanding between two people. When you don't even need to 共有する because you already know what the other is thinking.

彼とはツーカーの仲だから、説明しなくてもわかる。

Idiom/Casual

"腹を割って話す"

— To speak frankly; to open one's heart. Often a necessary step before true 価値観の共有 (sharing of values) can occur.

今日は腹を割って話しましょう。

Idiom/Neutral

"同じ釜の飯を食う"

— To eat from the same pot. To have shared a living experience, fostering a deep sense of shared identity.

同じ釜の飯を食った仲間は一生の宝だ。

Idiom/Casual

"意気投合する"

— To hit it off; to find a shared wavelength. When two people immediately share the same vibe or ideas.

初対面だったが、すぐに意気投合した。

Idiom/Neutral

Easily Confused

共有する vs シェアする (shea suru)

It is the English loanword for 'share'.

'シェアする' can be used for BOTH physical things (food) and digital things (social media). '共有する' is STRICTLY for abstract/digital things and sounds more professional.

ピザをシェアする (Correct) / ピザを共有する (Incorrect)

共有する vs 分かち合う (wakachiau)

Both mean 'to share'.

'分かち合う' is highly emotional and literary, used for sharing joy, sorrow, or burdens. '共有する' is clinical, objective, and used for data or information.

悲しみを分かち合う (Share sorrow) / データを共有する (Share data)

共有する vs 共同 (kyoudou)

Both use the kanji 共 and relate to doing things together.

'共同' is a noun/prefix meaning 'joint' or 'cooperative', often used for physical spaces or actions (e.g., joint research). '共有' focuses on joint ownership or access to an asset.

共同研究 (Joint research) / 情報共有 (Information sharing)

共有する vs 共通 (kyoutsuu)

Both use the kanji 共.

'共通' means 'common' as in a shared trait or characteristic (e.g., a common language, a common friend). '共有' is the action of sharing an asset.

共通の友人 (A common friend) / 画面を共有する (To share a screen)

共有する vs 分配する (bunpai suru)

Both involve distributing something.

'分配する' means to distribute or allocate physical portions (like profits or rations) to different people. '共有する' means everyone has access to the whole intact thing.

利益を分配する (Distribute profits) / 情報を共有する (Share information)

Sentence Patterns

[Noun] を共有します。

写真を共有します。 (I will share the photo.)

[Person] と [Noun] を共有する。

友達とリンクを共有する。 (I share the link with my friend.)

[Noun] を共有してください。

ファイルを共有してください。 (Please share the file.)

[Noun] を共有しておく。

スケジュールを共有しておきます。 (I will share the schedule in advance.)

[Noun] が共有される。

情報が共有される。 (The information is shared.)

[Noun] を共有させていただきます。

画面を共有させていただきます。 (I will humbly share my screen.)

[Noun] を共有した上で、〜

課題を共有した上で、議論する。 (To discuss upon sharing the issues.)

[Noun] を共有する仕組み。

データを共有する仕組みを作る。 (To create a system to share data.)

Word Family

Nouns

共有 (kyouyuu - sharing/joint ownership)

共有者 (kyouyuusha - co-owner)

共有地 (kyouyuuchi - common land)

共有財産 (kyouyuu zaisan - shared property)

情報共有 (jouhou kyouyuu - information sharing)

Verbs

共有する (kyouyuu suru - to share)

共有される (kyouyuu sareru - to be shared)

共有させる (kyouyuu saseru - to make someone share)

Adjectives

共有の (kyouyuu no - shared/common)

共同 (kyoudou - joint/cooperation)

共通 (kyoutsuu - common/shared trait)

共感 (kyoukan - empathy/sympathy)

共存 (kyouzon - coexistence)

シェア (shea - share)

How to Use It

frequency

Extremely High (Top 1000 most common words in modern spoken and written Japanese, especially in business and IT).

Common Mistakes

ケーキを共有する。 → ケーキを分ける。 / ケーキをシェアする。
English speakers use 'share' for everything. In Japanese, 共有する is only for abstract or digital things. For physical food, you must use 分ける (to divide) or the loanword シェアする.
友達を写真を共有する。 → 友達と写真を共有する。
Using the object particle を twice is grammatically incorrect. The person you are sharing WITH must be marked by the particle と (or に).
このメッセージを彼に共有してください。 → このメッセージを彼に伝えてください。
While not strictly wrong, using 共有する for a simple, one-way message is unnatural. 伝える (to convey) is much better when you just want someone to pass on a message.
悲しみを共有する。 → 悲しみを分かち合う。
You can technically say 悲しみを共有する, but it sounds very clinical, like sharing data. For deep emotions, the verb 分かち合う is much more natural and empathetic.
共有します (to a client) → 共有させていただきます。
In a strict business setting, simply saying 共有します to a client or superior can sound a bit too direct. Using the humble causative-passive form is expected in formal Keigo.

Tips

Master the Particles

Always remember the formula: [Person] と [Thing] を共有する. Never use を twice in the sentence. The target gets と (with) or に (to).

No Pizza Sharing!

Never use 共有する for physical objects that you divide, like pizza, cake, or money. Use 分ける or シェアする for those situations.

The Power of Jouhou Kyouyuu

In a Japanese office, '情報共有' (Information Sharing) is sacred. Always over-communicate with your team. If in doubt, share the information.

Zoom Meetings

Memorize the phrase '画面を共有します' (I will share my screen). You will use this in literally every online meeting you have in Japanese.

Humble Sharing

When sending a file to a boss or client, use '共有させていただきます' (I will humbly share). It sounds incredibly professional and respectful.

Emotional Sharing

If you are talking about sharing a deep, emotional burden or immense joy, swap out 共有する for 分かち合う (wakachiau) to sound more human and caring.

Spot the Kanji

Look for the kanji 共有 on your devices. Changing your phone's language to Japanese is the fastest way to memorize this word through daily exposure.

Values and Goals

It's not just for data! You can share abstract concepts. '価値観を共有する' (Share values) and '目標を共有する' (Share goals) are fantastic, high-level phrases.

Listen for the Noun

In meetings, people often drop the 'する' and just use the noun. Listen for '共有事項' (Items to be shared/Announcements) at the start of meetings.

Casual Requests

With friends, you don't need to be stiff. Just say 'その写真、共有して！' (Share that photo!) with an upbeat tone to ask for a picture.

Memorize It

Mnemonic

Imagine you are CO-OWNING (共有 - kyouyuu) a giant, glowing digital file with your friend. You both say 'K, YOU (kyou) and YOU (yuu) can both see it!'

Visual Association

Picture a computer folder with two people holding hands above it. The folder is glowing, representing data, and the people holding hands represent 'together' (共) and 'possessing' (有) the data.

Word Web

共有する (Center) -> 情報 (Information) -> 画面 (Screen) -> ファイル (File) -> 価値観 (Values) -> と (Particle: with) -> を (Particle: object) -> シェアする (Synonym)

Challenge

Next time you use your smartphone, change the language to Japanese for 10 minutes. Go to your photo gallery and try to send a photo to a friend. Look for the button that says 共有. Say 'kyouyuu shimasu' out loud as you press it.

Word Origin

The word is a Sino-Japanese compound (Kango) originating from ancient Chinese characters. It combines '共' (kyou), meaning 'together' or 'mutual', and '有' (yuu), meaning 'to exist' or 'to possess'.

Original meaning: Historically, it was primarily a legal and economic term referring to 'joint ownership' of physical property, such as land or assets held by multiple people.

Sino-Japanese (Kango)

Cultural Context

Be aware that asking to '共有する' personal or sensitive information in a workplace can sometimes cross boundaries if not handled with polite Keigo. Always use expressions like '差し支えなければ、共有していただけますか' (If you don't mind, could you share it?).

English speakers use 'share' for everything: sharing a pizza, sharing a room, sharing a secret, sharing a post. In Japanese, you must divide these concepts. Use 共有する for data/ideas, and 分ける or シェアする for physical items.

Business seminars in Japan constantly use the phrase '情報共有の徹底' (Thorough information sharing). Tech keynotes by Japanese executives frequently highlight 'シームレスな共有' (Seamless sharing). Pop psychology books in Japan often feature titles about '価値観の共有' (Sharing values in relationships).

Practice in Real Life

Real-World Contexts

Online Meetings (Zoom/Teams)

画面を共有します
共有を停止します
共有が見えますか
資料を共有します

Office/Business Communication

情報共有をお願いします
進捗を共有する
議事録を共有する
スケジュールを共有する

Digital Devices/Smartphones

リンクを共有する
写真を共有する
位置情報を共有する
共有ボタンを押す

Relationships/Counseling

価値観を共有する
感情を共有する
目標を共有する
時間を共有する

Cloud Computing/IT

共有フォルダ
ファイル共有
アクセス権を共有する
クラウドで共有する

Conversation Starters

"最近、チーム内での情報共有はうまくいっていますか？ (Is information sharing going well within the team lately?)"

"おすすめのポッドキャストがあったら、リンクを共有してくれませんか？ (If you have a recommended podcast, could you share the link?)"

"夫婦で家事のスケジュールをどうやって共有していますか？ (How do you share the chore schedule with your spouse?)"

"画面を共有したいのですが、権限をいただけますか？ (I would like to share my screen, could you give me permission?)"

"将来のビジョンについて、少し共有させてもらえませんか？ (Could you let me share a bit about my vision for the future?)"

Journal Prompts

今日、誰かと共有して嬉しかった情報や出来事は何ですか？ (What information or event were you happy to share with someone today?)

あなたが絶対に他人と共有したくないものは何ですか？その理由は？ (What is something you absolutely do not want to share with others? Why?)

職場や学校での「情報共有」を改善するためのアイデアを書いてください。 (Write down ideas to improve 'information sharing' at your workplace or school.)

「価値観を共有できる人」とは、あなたにとってどんな人ですか？ (What kind of person is someone you can 'share values with' to you?)

最近SNSで共有した記事や写真について、なぜそれを共有しようと思ったのか書いてください。 (Write about an article or photo you recently shared on social media and why you decided to share it.)

Frequently Asked Questions

10 questions

No, you cannot. This is the most common mistake English speakers make. 共有する is used for abstract things like information, files, and screens. If you are sharing a physical item that gets divided, like food, you must use 分ける (wakeru) or the English loanword シェアする (shea suru).

シェアする is a versatile loanword that can be used for physical items (sharing a dessert) and social media (sharing a post). 共有する is a formal, native Japanese word restricted to abstract concepts, digital files, and information. 共有する sounds much more professional in a business setting.

You should use the particle と (to) or に (ni). For example, 友達と写真を共有する (Share a photo with a friend). The item being shared takes the particle を (o).

It is a standard, neutral word. It is highly appropriate for formal business settings (especially when conjugated politely, like 共有いたします), but it is also used in everyday life when talking about digital devices, like sharing a link or a calendar.

The phrase is 画面共有 (gamen kyouyuu). If you want to say 'I will share my screen' as a verb phrase, you say 画面を共有します (gamen o kyouyuu shimasu). This is essential for Zoom or Teams meetings.

Yes, you can say 感情を共有する (kanjou o kyouyuu suru) or 価値観を共有する (kachikan o kyouyuu suru - share values). However, if you want to sound very empathetic and poetic, the verb 分かち合う (wakachiau) is often better for deep emotions.

情報共有 (jouhou kyouyuu) means 'information sharing'. It is a massive buzzword in Japanese corporate culture. It refers to the practice of keeping everyone on the team updated on progress, issues, and data to maintain harmony and efficiency.

You can say ファイルを共有してください (Fairu o kyouyuu shite kudasai). If you want to be even more polite in a business email, you can say ファイルをご共有いただけますでしょうか (Fairu o gokyouyuu itadakemasu deshou ka).

Yes, simply remove the 'する' to get the noun 共有 (kyouyuu). It means 'sharing' or 'joint ownership'. You will see it in compound words like 共有フォルダ (shared folder) or 共有リンク (shared link).

Because in the digital age, sending a file or a link is considered granting access to data, which fits the definition of 共有. Tech companies localized the English 'Share' button as 共有 across almost all operating systems in Japan.

Test Yourself 200 questions

writing

Translate to Japanese: 'I will share the photo.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Use the object particle を and the polite present tense します。