When you want to express the idea of getting really close to someone or something, like snuggling up, the Japanese verb 寄り添う (yorisou) is perfect. Think of it like a cat curling up next to you, or two people sitting very close together, offering comfort or support. It's about being physically and sometimes emotionally near to someone or something. You might use it to describe staying close to a friend in need, or even a boat drawing near to the shore. The nuance is often one of closeness, support, and sometimes comfort.
When you want to express the idea of getting really close to something or someone, like snuggling up for comfort or drawing near to support, the Japanese word 寄り添う (yorisou) is perfect. It's often used when there's a sense of emotional closeness or physical proximity for support. Think of a child snuggling up to their parent, or people drawing together in solidarity. It conveys a gentle and supportive closeness.
When you 寄り添う, you are physically moving closer to someone or something, often for comfort, support, or intimacy. This verb can also be used in a more metaphorical sense, like 'to stay close to someone's feelings' or 'to stand by them through difficulties'. It implies a sense of emotional closeness and support, not just physical proximity. Think of it as a deeper form of being together.
When you hear 寄り添う (よりそう - yorisou), think about being physically or emotionally close to someone or something. It implies a sense of comfort, support, and closeness.
You might use it to describe a child snuggling up to their parent, a couple walking arm-in-arm, or even a tree growing closely alongside another. It goes beyond just physical proximity; it suggests a feeling of companionship and mutual understanding.
§ Understanding 寄り添う: Basics
The Japanese verb 寄り添う (よりそう, yorisou) is a versatile word that expresses the idea of being close to someone or something, both physically and emotionally. It's often translated as 'to snuggle up to,' 'to be close to,' or 'to draw near.' Think of it as a gentle, comforting proximity.
- Word Type
- Verb
- CEFR Level
- B1
§ Grammar and Particles with 寄り添う
When using 寄り添う, you'll most commonly see it with the particle に (ni) to indicate the person or thing you are snuggling up to or drawing close to. This particle marks the indirect object or the target of the action.
彼女は彼に寄り添った。(Kanojo wa kare ni yorisotta.)
She snuggled up to him.
猫はソファで私の足に寄り添っている。(Neko wa sofa de watashi no ashi ni yorisotte iru.)
The cat is snuggled up to my feet on the sofa.
§ Beyond Physical Proximity: Emotional Support
While 寄り添う can certainly describe physical closeness, it's very often used to express emotional support and empathy. In this context, it means to stand by someone, to be emotionally close, or to understand and share in their feelings.
私たちは困難な時に互いに寄り添うべきだ。(Watashitachi wa konnan na toki ni otagai ni yorisou beki da.)
We should stand by each other in difficult times. (Literally: We should snuggle up to each other in difficult times.)
住民の気持ちに寄り添った政策が必要だ。(Jūmin no kimochi ni yorisotta seisaku ga hitsuyō da.)
Policies that are close to/considerate of the feelings of the residents are necessary.
§ Common Forms and Conjugations
As a regular Godan verb, 寄り添う follows standard conjugation patterns. Here are a few common forms you'll encounter:
- Present/Future (Dictionary form): 寄り添う (yorisou) - to snuggle up, to be close
- ます Form: 寄り添います (yorisoimasu) - polite present/future
- Past Tense: 寄り添った (yorisotta) - snuggled up, was close
- て Form: 寄り添って (yorisotte) - used for connecting clauses, continuous action, or requests
- Negative Form: 寄り添わない (yorisowanai) - not snuggle up, not be close
いつもあなたのそばに寄り添っていたい。(Itsumo anata no soba ni yorisotte itai.)
I always want to be by your side/I want to always snuggle up to you.
The て form + いる (iru) is particularly useful for expressing an ongoing state of closeness or snuggling:
子供たちは暖炉の前で寄り添って寝ている。(Kodomotachi wa danro no mae de yorisotte nete iru.)
The children are snuggled up sleeping in front of the fireplace.
§ Practical Usage Notes
Here are a few more points to help you use 寄り添う naturally:
- It often conveys a sense of warmth, comfort, and security.
- While it can be used for inanimate objects (like snuggling up to a pillow), its emotional nuance shines when used with people or sentient beings.
- Consider the context. 'Snuggle up' implies a more intimate physical closeness, while 'be close to' or 'stand by' suits emotional support better. The core meaning of proximity and support remains.
悲しみに寄り添い、共に乗り越えよう。(Kanashimi ni yorisoi, tomo ni norikoe you.)
Let's stand by each other in sadness and overcome it together.
By understanding these nuances, you can effectively use 寄り添う to express both physical and emotional closeness in Japanese.
§ Understanding 寄り添う in Context
The Japanese verb 寄り添う (よりそう) means "to snuggle up to," "to be close to," or "to draw near." It often implies a sense of physical closeness, emotional support, or a situation where two things or people are aligned or moving together. While it might sound a bit poetic at first, you'll find it used in very practical, everyday situations across various settings like work, school, and even in news reports.
Let's dive into some real-world scenarios where 寄り添う is commonly used. Understanding these examples will help you grasp its nuances and use it correctly in your own conversations.
§ 寄り添う at Work
In a professional setting, 寄り添う often describes providing close support, understanding a client's needs, or working in close collaboration. It's about being attentive and responsive.
- DEFINITION
- To provide close support or service, often emphasizing understanding and meeting the needs of others (e.g., clients, customers, team members).
顧客のニーズに寄り添うサービスを提供しています。
Hint: We provide services that cater closely to customer needs.
チームメンバーに寄り添い、彼らの成長をサポートします。
Hint: I stay close to team members and support their growth.
§ 寄り添う at School
In an educational environment, 寄り添う is often used to describe teachers or counselors providing close guidance and emotional support to students. It emphasizes understanding individual student needs and challenges.
- DEFINITION
- To provide close guidance and emotional support to students, understanding their individual situations and helping them through difficulties.
先生は生徒一人ひとりに寄り添い、学習をサポートしました。
Hint: The teacher closely supported each student's learning.
カウンセラーは悩みを抱える学生に寄り添い、話を聞いています。
Hint: The counselor is there for students with worries, listening to them.
§ 寄り添う in the News and Public Discourse
In news reports and public discussions, 寄り添う can describe governments or organizations supporting affected communities, or individuals coming together in solidarity. It conveys a sense of collective effort and shared understanding.
- DEFINITION
- To show solidarity, support, or a commitment to understanding and addressing the needs of a particular group or community, especially in times of crisis or change.
政府は被災者に寄り添い、復興を支援すると発表しました。
Hint: The government announced it would stand by disaster victims and support recovery.
地域住民の声に寄り添い、より良い政策を考えます。
Hint: We will listen closely to the voices of local residents and consider better policies.
As you can see, 寄り添う is a versatile word that goes beyond simple physical proximity. It embodies the idea of being attentive, supportive, and empathetic across various situations. Paying attention to how it's used in these different contexts will significantly improve your understanding and ability to use Japanese naturally.
Fun Fact
While often translated as 'snuggle up,' 寄り添う (yorisou) doesn't always imply romantic or familial closeness. It can also describe abstract concepts like 'to be supportive' or 'to stand by' someone in a difficult situation.
Pronunciation Guide
- pronouncing 'so' as 'sou' (long 'o' sound)
Difficulty Rating
Common kanji, relatively straightforward.
Common kanji, not too many strokes.
Pronunciation is clear.
Clear pronunciation, easily distinguishable.
What to Learn Next
Prerequisites
Learn Next
Advanced
Examples by Level
猫が私の足に寄り添った。
The cat ~ed up to my leg.
Simple past tense of 寄り添う.
彼は彼女に寄り添って座った。
He sat ~ing up to her.
〜て form used to connect actions.
子供は母親に寄り添って寝た。
The child slept ~ing up to their mother.
〜て form used to connect actions.
電車の中で、みんなが寄り添っていた。
Everyone was ~ing up to each other on the train.
〜ていた (te-ita) form for ongoing action in the past.
寒い夜、二人は寄り添った。
On a cold night, the two ~ed up to each other.
Simple past tense of 寄り添う.
赤ちゃんはぬいぐるみと寄り添って眠る。
The baby sleeps ~ing up to the stuffed animal.
Simple present tense of 寄り添う.
友達はいつも私に寄り添ってくれる。
My friend always ~s up to me.
〜てくれる (te-kureru) indicates an action done for one's benefit.
疲れた時、家族に寄り添いたい。
When I'm tired, I want to ~ up to my family.
〜たい (tai) form for expressing desire.
猫が私の足に寄り添って寝ています。
The cat is sleeping, snuggled up to my feet.
彼女はいつも彼に寄り添って座ります。
She always sits close to him.
寒い夜、子供たちは母親に寄り添いました。
On a cold night, the children snuggled up to their mother.
悲しい時、友達がそっと私に寄り添ってくれました。
When I was sad, my friend gently came close to me.
新しいソファは壁にぴったり寄り添っています。
The new sofa fits perfectly against the wall.
この公園は川に寄り添ってあります。
This park is located close to the river.
夫婦は互いに寄り添って生きています。
The couple lives, always close to each other.
不安な時、家族に寄り添うことが大切です。
When you are anxious, it's important to be close to your family.
彼女は悲しんでいる友人に寄り添い、慰めた。
She snuggled up to her sad friend and comforted her.
寄り添う is often used with に to indicate the person or thing one is snuggling up to.
寒い夜、猫はストーブに寄り添って眠っていた。
On a cold night, the cat was sleeping snuggled up to the stove.
Here, 寄り添う describes the cat being close to the stove for warmth.
人生の困難な時期も、私たちは互いに寄り添って乗り越えてきた。
Even through difficult times in life, we have overcome them by being close to each other.
互いに寄り添う emphasizes mutual support and closeness.
新しい法律は、市民の生活に寄り添ったものであるべきだ。
The new law should be one that is close to the lives of citizens.
In this context, 寄り添う means to be considerate of or tailored to.
子供たちは母親に寄り添って、絵本を読んでいた。
The children were reading a picture book, snuggled up to their mother.
This example shows physical closeness and comfort.
彼の音楽は、常に人々の心に寄り添い、感動を与えてきた。
His music has always been close to people's hearts and moved them.
Here, 寄り添う is used metaphorically to mean resonating with people's feelings.
困っている人に寄り添い、手を差し伸べることが大切だ。
It's important to be close to people in need and offer a helping hand.
This phrase suggests empathy and support for those in difficult situations.
政治家は、国民の意見に寄り添った政策を立案すべきだ。
Politicians should formulate policies that are close to the opinions of the public.
Similar to the law example, this implies policies that consider and reflect public sentiment.
彼女は悲しんでいる友人に寄り添って、慰めの言葉をかけた。
She snuggled up to her sad friend and offered words of comfort.
私たちは困難な時もお互いに寄り添い、支え合ってきた。
We have snuggled up to each other and supported each other even in difficult times.
赤ちゃんは母親に寄り添って、ぐっすり眠っている。
The baby is snuggled up to its mother and sleeping soundly.
このデザインは、ユーザーの気持ちに寄り添うことを目指している。
This design aims to be close to the user's feelings.
彼はいつも困っている人に寄り添い、手を差し伸べる。
He always draws near to people in trouble and lends a hand.
その団体は、社会的に弱い立場にある人々に寄り添う活動をしている。
That organization is active in being close to socially vulnerable people.
猫が私の足に寄り添って、暖かくて心地よい。
The cat is snuggled up to my feet; it's warm and comfortable.
顧客のニーズに寄り添ったサービスを提供することが重要だ。
It is important to provide services that are close to customer needs.
彼女は悲しみに暮れる友人に寄り添い、静かに慰めの言葉をかけた。
She snuggled up to her grieving friend and quietly offered words of comfort.
猫は飼い主の膝に寄り添って、満足そうに喉を鳴らしている。
The cat is snuggled up on its owner's lap, purring contentedly.
彼は困難な状況にある人々すべてに寄り添い、支援の手を差し伸べた。
He drew near to all those in difficult situations and extended a helping hand.
その団体は、社会的に弱い立場にある人々に寄り添う活動を続けている。
That organization continues its activities to be close to people in socially vulnerable positions.
私たちは、お客様のニーズに寄り添った最適なソリューションを提供します。
We provide optimal solutions that draw near to (meet) our customers' needs.
子どもたちは焚き火に寄り添い、暖を取りながら物語を聞いていた。
The children were snuggled up to the bonfire, warming themselves while listening to stories.
地域社会に寄り添った医療サービスを提供することが私たちの目標です。
Our goal is to provide medical services that are close to (attentive to) the local community.
互いに寄り添いながら生きていくことが、人間関係を豊かにする秘訣だ。
Living while snuggling up to each other is the secret to enriching human relationships.
Often Confused With
Focuses on simple physical proximity, moving closer.
Indicates being next to something or someone, without further implication.
Implies sticking or clinging, often literally or with less gentle connotations.
Easily Confused
This verb often gets confused with other words that imply closeness or proximity, but '寄り添う' specifically emphasizes a gentle, supportive, and often comforting physical or emotional closeness.
While words like '近づく' (to approach) or '隣にいる' (to be next to) describe physical proximity, '寄り添う' carries a nuance of leaning into something or someone, often for support or comfort. It can be physical, like snuggling, or emotional, like offering support.
彼女は彼に寄り添って歩いた。 (She walked snuggled up to him.)
Often mistakenly used when '寄り添う' is more appropriate, as both relate to getting closer.
'近づく' means simply to get closer in proximity, without the emotional or supportive nuance of '寄り添う'. It's a more neutral term for movement towards something.
バスが駅に近づいた。 (The bus approached the station.)
Similar to '近づく', it describes being close, but lacks the specific 'snuggling' or 'leaning on' aspect.
'隣にいる' just means to be next to something or someone. There's no inherent implication of support or comfort.
彼は私の隣にいた。 (He was next to me.)
This verb can also mean to stick or cling, which might seem similar to snuggling.
'くっつく' often implies a more literal sticking or adhering, like two objects sticking together, or someone clinging to another person in a less gentle way than '寄り添う'. It can also be used for things that are literally stuck, like glue.
ガムが靴にくっついた。 (Gum stuck to my shoe.)
This word implies close contact and adherence, which can be similar to the physical aspect of '寄り添う'.
'密着する' suggests a very close, tight, often uniform contact between surfaces, like shrink wrap or a tight-fitting garment. It lacks the emotional or supportive nuance of '寄り添う'.
肌に密着する服。 (Clothes that cling to the skin.)
How to Use It
寄り添う (yorisou) means to get close to someone or something, often for comfort or support. It suggests a sense of intimacy and closeness. You can use it when talking about physically moving closer to someone, like snuggling up on the couch, or metaphorically, like being emotionally supportive. For instance, a mother might 寄り添う her child when they're sad, or a politician might say they want to 寄り添う the needs of the people. It's a versatile verb that goes beyond just physical proximity, implying a deeper connection.
A common mistake is confusing 寄り添う with just 'to get close'. While it does involve proximity, it carries a stronger nuance of emotional or physical comfort and support. Simply getting close without this nuance might be better expressed with verbs like 近づく (chikazuku - to approach) or 寄る (yoru - to come near/move closer). Remember, 寄り添う is about drawing near WITH a purpose, usually for comfort or understanding. Another mistake might be using it when there's no sense of intimacy or support. For example, if you just mean 'to stand next to someone', you'd likely use 隣に立つ (tonari ni tatsu) instead of 寄り添う.
Tips
Focus on the nuance of '寄り添う'
While 寄り添う can mean 'to snuggle up to' literally, it often carries a more figurative meaning of being emotionally close or providing support. Think of it as being 'there for someone' in a gentle way.
Common particles with '寄り添う'
You'll often see 寄り添う used with the particle に (ni) to indicate the person or thing being snuggled up to or supported. For example, 彼女に寄り添う (kanojo ni yorisou) means 'to snuggle up to her' or 'to be close to her'.
Use '寄り添う' for comfort
This word is particularly useful when talking about offering comfort or empathy. If someone is sad, you might say, 「私はあなたに寄り添います」 (Watashi wa anata ni yorisoi-masu), meaning 'I will be there for you' or 'I will comfort you'.
Beyond physical closeness
Don't limit 寄り添う to just physical contact. It can describe policies that are close to the needs of the people, or a design that harmonizes with its surroundings. Think broadly about 'closeness' and 'fitting in'.
Not for aggressive approaches
寄り添う implies a gentle, supportive drawing near. Do not use it for aggressive or forceful approaches. It’s about comfort and understanding, not confrontation.
Connect to similar concepts
Think about related English concepts like 'to lean on,' 'to cling to' (in a supportive way), or 'to stand by.' This helps solidify the meaning of 寄り添う as being present and supportive.
Practice with contexts
Try creating sentences where 寄り添う is used for a child to a parent, a lover to another, or even a solution to a problem. The more contexts you use it in, the better you'll understand its flexibility.
Understated Japanese empathy
In Japanese culture, empathy and support are often expressed in a more understated way. 寄り添う captures this nuance of being present and understanding without necessarily being overly dramatic. It's about quiet solidarity.
Using '寄り添う' with abstract nouns
Advanced learners can try using 寄り添う with abstract nouns like 期待 (kitai - expectations) or 理念 (rinen - ideals). This implies that something is 'in line with' or 'adheres to' these concepts, showing a deeper understanding of the word's versatility.
Listen for it in media
Pay attention to how 寄り添う is used in Japanese dramas, anime, or news reports. You'll hear it in contexts related to emotional support, close relationships, or policies that are designed to meet specific needs. Active listening helps immensely.
Word Origin
Compound of '寄る' (yoru - to approach/draw near) and '添う' (sou - to accompany/to be close to).
Original meaning: The combination of the two verbs directly conveys the meaning of physically drawing close and staying alongside something or someone.
JaponicCultural Context
寄り添う (yorisou) reflects a cultural value placed on closeness, support, and empathy. It's often used to describe emotional solidarity, like a community coming together to support disaster victims, or simply a deep understanding between people. This word goes beyond mere physical proximity, emphasizing a sense of emotional connection and mutual support.
Practice in Real Life
Real-World Contexts
Family/Pets
- 子供が母親に寄り添って寝ている。 (The child is snuggling up to their mother and sleeping.)
- 猫が私の足元に寄り添ってきた。(The cat snuggled up to my feet.)
- 寒い夜はペットと寄り添って暖まろう。(Let's snuggle with our pet to get warm on a cold night.)
Emotional Support
- 彼女は悲しんでいる友達にそっと寄り添った。(She gently drew near her sad friend.)
- 大変な時に、いつも家族が寄り添ってくれた。(My family always stayed close to me during difficult times.)
- 彼の話に寄り添い、耳を傾けた。(I listened attentively, being close to his story.)
Physical Proximity (Figurative)
- 二人は肩を寄せ合って寄り添うように歩いた。(The two walked shoulder to shoulder, as if snuggling close.)
- このカフェは静かで、本と寄り添うのに最適だ。(This cafe is quiet and perfect for getting close with a book.)
- 私たちは寄り添って星空を眺めた。(We snuggled close and gazed at the starry sky.)
Working Together/Cooperation
- お客様のニーズに寄り添ったサービスを提供します。(We provide services that are close to our customers' needs.)
- 地域の声に寄り添い、より良い町づくりを進める。(We will listen closely to the voices of the community and promote better town development.)
- チームとして、お互いに寄り添って目標を達成しよう。(As a team, let's work closely together to achieve our goals.)
Buildings/Objects
- その古い家は、森に寄り添うように建っていた。(That old house stood as if snuggling up to the forest.)
- 小さなカフェが路地に寄り添うようにひっそりと営業している。(A small cafe quietly operates, nestled in the alley.)
- 海岸線に寄り添うように、美しい道が続いている。(A beautiful road continues, following the coastline.)
Conversation Starters
"最近、誰かに寄り添ってもらった経験はありますか？どんな状況でしたか？ (Have you recently had an experience where someone snuggled up to you or was close to you? What was the situation like?)"
"あなたが誰かに寄り添いたいと思ったのはどんな時ですか？ (When have you wanted to be close to someone or snuggle up to them?)"
"「寄り添う」という言葉を聞いて、どんなイメージが浮かびますか？ (What kind of image comes to mind when you hear the word "yorisou"?)"
"あなたのペットはあなたに寄り添うのが好きですか？どんな風に寄り添ってきますか？ (Does your pet like to snuggle up to you? How do they do it?)"
"家族や友人に寄り添うことの重要性についてどう思いますか？ (What do you think about the importance of being close to family and friends?)"
Journal Prompts
あなたが疲れている時に、誰かに寄り添ってもらって癒された経験について書きましょう。(Write about an experience where you were tired and felt comforted by someone being close to you.)
あなたの周りで、「寄り添う」という言葉がぴったりくるような光景を描写してください。(Describe a scene around you where the word "yorisou" fits perfectly.)
困っている人がいたら、あなたはどのように「寄り添い」ますか？具体的に考えてみましょう。(If someone is in trouble, how would you "be close" to them? Think concretely.)
将来、どんな人々に「寄り添える」自分になりたいですか？ (In the future, what kind of person do you want to be, someone who can "be close" to others?)
「寄り添う」という行動が、人間関係や社会に与える影響について考察しましょう。(Consider the impact that the act of "yorisou" has on human relationships and society.)
Test Yourself 96 questions
Choose the best English meaning for 「友達と___歩く」 (Tomodachi to ___ aruku).
「寄り添う」 (yorisou) means to get close or snuggle up to. In this context, 'alongside' implies closeness.
Which of these situations best describes 「寄り添う」 (yorisou)?
「寄り添う」 (yorisou) conveys closeness and being next to someone. Holding hands tightly is a good example.
「犬が私に___きた」 (Inu ga watashi ni ___ kita). What fits best in the blank?
The sentence means 'The dog came to me...' 「寄り添って」 (yorisotte) makes sense as 'snuggling up to'.
「寄り添う」 (yorisou) can be used when two people are standing very far apart.
No, 「寄り添う」 (yorisou) specifically means to be close or snuggle up to someone or something, not far apart.
If someone is 「寄り添って」 (yorisotte) to you, they are probably physically close to you.
Yes, 「寄り添う」 (yorisou) implies physical closeness, like snuggling or being right next to someone.
「猫がストーブに寄り添う」 (Neko ga sutoobu ni yorisou) means 'The cat is moving away from the stove.'
No, it means 'The cat is snuggling up to the stove' or 'The cat is close to the stove,' likely for warmth.
The cat is doing something to my leg.
The child is walking near their mother.
She is always close to him.
Read this aloud:
犬がソファに寄り添っています。
Focus: yori-so-tte
You said:
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
Read this aloud:
私は友達に寄り添って座りました。
Focus: yori-so-tte su-wa-ri-ma-shi-ta
You said:
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
Read this aloud:
赤ちゃんがお父さんに寄り添って寝ています。
Focus: a-ka-chan ga o-to-u-san ni yori-so-tte ne-te-i-masu
You said:
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
This sentence means 'I snuggle up to the cat.'
This sentence means 'He snuggled up to her.'
This sentence means 'We snuggled up to the fireplace.'
Imagine you're comforting a sad friend. Write a short sentence in Japanese telling them you will stay close to them. Use 寄り添う.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
私はいつもあなたのそばに寄り添います。(I will always stay close by your side.)
You see a kitten sleeping next to its mother. Describe this scene in a simple Japanese sentence using 寄り添う.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
子猫がお母さんに寄り添って寝ています。(The kitten is sleeping snuggled up to its mother.)
Write a short sentence in Japanese about how a couple might walk together, very close to each other, using 寄り添う.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
カップルが寄り添って歩いています。(The couple is walking close together.)
子供たちは何をして暖をとっていましたか？
Read this passage:
寒い日、子供たちはストーブのそばに寄り添って暖をとっていました。彼らは温かい飲み物を飲みながら、楽しそうに話していました。
子供たちは何をして暖をとっていましたか？
文章に「ストーブのそばに寄り添って暖をとっていました」とあります。
文章に「ストーブのそばに寄り添って暖をとっていました」とあります。
ペットが足元に寄り添うと、どうなりますか？
Read this passage:
疲れた時、ペットがそっと足元に寄り添ってくれると心が落ち着きます。彼らの存在は私たちにとって大きな支えです。
ペットが足元に寄り添うと、どうなりますか？
文章に「心が落ち着きます」とあります。
文章に「心が落ち着きます」とあります。
彼女は悲しい時、誰に寄り添って欲しいと思っていましたか？
Read this passage:
彼女は悲しい時、いつも家族に寄り添って欲しいと思っていました。家族の温かさが彼女の心を癒やしてくれます。
彼女は悲しい時、誰に寄り添って欲しいと思っていましたか？
文章に「いつも家族に寄り添って欲しいと思っていました」とあります。
文章に「いつも家族に寄り添って欲しいと思っていました」とあります。
This sentence means 'I always snuggle up to my dog.' The correct order is subject, adverb, indirect object, and then the verb.
This means 'She sat close to him.' The structure is subject, indirect object, verb in -te form, and then the main verb.
This means 'On cold nights, I sleep snuggled up with my cat.' The sentence starts with the time phrase, then the companion, the -te form of 寄り添う, and finally the verb 寝る.
寂しい時、友達がいつも私に___くれる。(When I'm lonely, my friend always ___ me.)
「寄り添う」は物理的または精神的に近くにいることを意味します。この文脈では、友達が寂しい時に精神的に近くにいてくれることを表現しています。
寒い夜、猫が私の足に___寝ていた。(On a cold night, the cat was sleeping ___ my feet.)
「寄り添う」は、暖かさを求めて物理的に近づく行動にも使われます。猫が足元にぴったりとくっついて寝ている様子を表しています。
困っている人に___、助けの手を差し伸べることは大切だ。(It's important to ___ people in need and offer a helping hand.)
ここでは、困っている人の気持ちに寄り添い、理解しようとすることを意味します。
おばあちゃんは、いつも孫に___話をしていた。(Grandma always talked to her grandchild, ___.)
愛情を込めて、物理的に近くにいる様子や、心の距離が近いことを表しています。
私たちは互いに___、困難を乗り越えた。(We ___ each other and overcame the difficulties.)
精神的に支え合い、協力し合うことで困難を乗り越えたことを意味します。
彼の意見に___、私たちは計画を変更した。(___ his opinion, we changed the plan.)
相手の意見や考えを尊重し、それに合わせて行動することを意味します。
She always snuggles up to him.
When you're anxious, it's important to be close to your family.
The baby is sleeping snuggled up to its mother.
Read this aloud:
友達が悲しんでいる時、私は彼女に寄り添いたい。
Focus: 寄り添う (yorisou)
You said:
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
Read this aloud:
寒い夜は、ストーブに寄り添って温まります。
Focus: 寄り添って (yorisotte)
You said:
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
Read this aloud:
困難な時期には、お互いに寄り添いましょう。
Focus: 寄り添いましょう (yorisoimashou)
You said:
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
Imagine your pet is scared during a thunderstorm. Describe how you would comfort them using 寄り添う.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
私の犬が雷を怖がっているので、私は隣に寄り添って、安心させます。
You are at a crowded train station. Describe how you would 'draw near' to someone you are meeting to make sure you don't get separated.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
駅で友達と会うとき、人混みで迷子にならないように、彼女に寄り添って歩きます。
Describe a situation where someone would 寄り添う to a friend who is feeling sad.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
友達が悲しんでいるとき、私は隣に寄り添って、話をじっと聞きます。
この文脈で「寄り添って」はどのような状況を表していますか？
Read this passage:
子供たちは母親に寄り添って、絵本を読んでいます。母親の温かい腕の中で、彼らは安心して物語の世界に浸っています。
この文脈で「寄り添って」はどのような状況を表していますか？
「寄り添う」は「snuggle up to, be close to」という意味なので、母親の近くで安心している状況を表します。
「寄り添う」は「snuggle up to, be close to」という意味なので、母親の近くで安心している状況を表します。
猫がストーブに寄り添っていた理由は何ですか？
Read this passage:
寒い夜、猫はストーブに寄り添って暖をとっていました。毛布にくるまって、ぐっすり眠っています。
猫がストーブに寄り添っていた理由は何ですか？
「寄り添って暖をとっていました」という記述から、寒いので暖まりたかったことがわかります。
「寄り添って暖をとっていました」という記述から、寒いので暖まりたかったことがわかります。
新入社員が先輩に「寄り添って」いるのはなぜですか？
Read this passage:
新入社員は先輩に寄り添って仕事のやり方を学んでいます。分からないことがあればすぐに質問し、熱心にメモを取っています。
新入社員が先輩に「寄り添って」いるのはなぜですか？
「仕事のやり方を学んでいます」という記述から、先輩から仕事を学ぶために近くにいることがわかります。
「仕事のやり方を学んでいます」という記述から、先輩から仕事を学ぶために近くにいることがわかります。
This sentence means 'I want to always be close to her.' The particles and verb conjugation fit together to form a natural-sounding sentence.
This sentence translates to 'The cat is snuggled up next to me, sleeping.' The structure shows the cat snuggling and then sleeping.
This means 'My friend always understands my feelings and is there for me.' It shows emotional closeness and support.
Choose the sentence where 「寄り添う」is used correctly.
「寄り添う」means to stay close to someone, often for comfort or support. The first option correctly uses it to describe someone walking close to another person.
Which of the following is the most appropriate translation for 「子供は母親に寄り添って寝た」?
「寄り添う」implies a closer, more intimate proximity than just 'near'. 'Snuggled up to' captures this nuance well.
What nuance does 「寄り添う」 convey that 「近くにいる」 (to be near) might not?
While both indicate proximity, 「寄り添う」 often carries the connotation of emotional closeness, support, or comfort, which 「近くにいる」 does not inherently include.
「寄り添う」 can be used to describe two inanimate objects being close to each other.
「寄り添う」 typically refers to living beings, especially humans, drawing close for comfort or support. It's not commonly used for inanimate objects.
If you are feeling lonely, someone might 「寄り添って」 you.
「寄り添う」 is often used in the context of offering comfort and support to someone, which is appropriate if they are feeling lonely.
You can use 「寄り添う」 to describe a car parked next to a building.
「寄り添う」 implies a more personal, often comforting, closeness between individuals, not just a simple physical proximity of objects.
She always snuggles up to me.
The child snuggled up to their mother and slept.
The cat was sitting close to the fireplace.
Read this aloud:
困っている人に寄り添う心が必要だ。
Focus: ヨリソウ (yorisou)
You said:
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
Read this aloud:
辛い時こそ、家族に寄り添いたい。
Focus: ヨリソイタイ (yorisoitai)
You said:
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
Read this aloud:
お互いに寄り添いながら生きていこう。
Focus: オタガイニ ヨリソイナガラ (otagai ni yorisoinagara)
You said:
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
困難な時こそ、互いに___ことが大切だ。
「寄り添う」は「困難な時こそ、互いに支え合うこと」の意味に最も合致します。
彼女はいつも私の気持ちに___くれる。
「寄り添う」は「相手の気持ちを理解し、共感する」という意味でも使われます。
冷たい雨の中、二人は肩を___歩いていた。
「肩を寄せ合う」は「寄り添う」と似た意味合いで、物理的に近くにいることを表します。
この絵は、夫婦が___生活を表現している。
「寄り添って暮らす」は「仲良く、支え合いながら生活する」という意味です。
私は悲しんでいる友人に、ただ___だけだった。
「寄り添う」は「相手に共感し、支える」という行動を表します。
この物語は、互いに支え合い___二人の人生を描いている。
「寄り添い生きる」は「お互いを支え、共に生きる」という意味で使われます。
彼女はいつも彼の悩みに___。
「寄り添う」は「そばにいて支える」という意味合いがあります。ここでは、彼女が彼の悩みに寄り添って支えている状況を表しています。
この困難な時期を乗り越えるため、私たちは互いに___必要があった。
困難な時期には、互いに支え合うことが重要です。「寄り添う」は、そのような支え合いの状況に最も適しています。
寒い夜、子供たちは暖炉に___寝た。
暖炉のそばで暖かさを求めて近づく様子を表すのに「寄り添う」が適切です。
「寄り添う」は、物理的に近づくことだけでなく、精神的に支え合うことも表現できます。
「寄り添う」は、文字通りの近接だけでなく、感情的な共感やサポートを意味することが多々あります。
誰かの意見に「寄り添う」とは、その意見に反対することである。
誰かの意見に「寄り添う」とは、その意見を理解し、共感しようとすることであり、反対することではありません。
「寄り添う」は、しばしばネガティブな文脈で使われ、不快な状況を指すことが多い。
「寄り添う」は、通常、ポジティブな文脈、例えば、支え合いや親密さを表すのに使われます。
Listen for '寄り添って' in a sentence about walking.
Listen for '寄り添う' in a sentence about difficult times.
Listen for '寄り添って' in a sentence about a baby sleeping.
Read this aloud:
疲れた時、誰かに寄り添ってもらいたい。
Focus: yorisou
You said:
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
Read this aloud:
この犬はいつも私の足に寄り添ってくる。
Focus: yorisotte kuru
You said:
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
Read this aloud:
私たちが直面している問題に寄り添った解決策を見つけましょう。
Focus: yorisotta kaiketsusaku
You said:
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
困難な時こそ、互いに___ことが大切だ。
「寄り添う」は、困難な状況で精神的、感情的に近くにいることを意味します。ここでは、互いに支え合うことの重要性を表現しています。
彼女はいつも私の気持ちに___くれるので、とても感謝している。
「気持ちに寄り添う」は、相手の感情や心情に共感し、理解しようと努めることを表します。感謝の気持ちを伝える文脈に合致します。
弱者に___政治が求められている。
「弱者に寄り添う」は、弱い立場の人々の声に耳を傾け、彼らの側に立って行動する姿勢を意味します。政治のあり方を問う文脈で適切です。
長年連れ添った夫婦は、互いに___ように静かに庭を眺めていた。
「寄り添う」は、物理的に隣にいるだけでなく、精神的なつながりや一体感を表現します。長年共に過ごした夫婦の情景にふさわしいです。
病気の友人に、そっと___支えたい。
病気の友人を精神的、感情的に支えるには、「寄り添う」という表現が最も適しています。優しく、近くにいることを示します。
その提案は、住民のニーズに___ものだった。
「ニーズに寄り添う」は、提案や計画が人々の要求や状況によく合致していることを意味します。ここでは、住民のニーズを考慮した良い提案であったことを示唆しています。
This sentence means 'Even in difficult times, the couple snuggled up to each other and overcame them.' The order follows a typical Japanese sentence structure: adverbial phrase, subject, verb phrase.
This translates to 'She snuggled up to her stuffed animal and slept on an anxious night.' The order correctly places the subject, then the adverbial phrase, followed by the object and verb phrase.
This sentence means 'When we got lost, we proceeded as if drawing near to the map.' The adverbial clause comes first, then the subject, followed by the object and the verb phrase including '寄り添うように' which describes the manner of proceeding.
/ 96 correct
Perfect score!
Focus on the nuance of '寄り添う'
While 寄り添う can mean 'to snuggle up to' literally, it often carries a more figurative meaning of being emotionally close or providing support. Think of it as being 'there for someone' in a gentle way.
Common particles with '寄り添う'
You'll often see 寄り添う used with the particle に (ni) to indicate the person or thing being snuggled up to or supported. For example, 彼女に寄り添う (kanojo ni yorisou) means 'to snuggle up to her' or 'to be close to her'.
Use '寄り添う' for comfort
This word is particularly useful when talking about offering comfort or empathy. If someone is sad, you might say, 「私はあなたに寄り添います」 (Watashi wa anata ni yorisoi-masu), meaning 'I will be there for you' or 'I will comfort you'.
Beyond physical closeness
Don't limit 寄り添う to just physical contact. It can describe policies that are close to the needs of the people, or a design that harmonizes with its surroundings. Think broadly about 'closeness' and 'fitting in'.
Related Content
More family words
還暦
B160th birthday (celebration of completing a 60-year cycle).
〜くらい
B1About; approximately; to the extent that.
認め合う
B1To recognize each other's worth; to acknowledge.
知人
B1Acquaintance.
顔見知り
A2Acquaintance; someone you know by sight.
甘える
B1To be spoiled, to fawn; to behave like a pampered child.
活発な
B1Active; lively; vigorous.
思春期
B1Adolescence; the period of transition from childhood to adulthood.
養子
B1Adopted child; a child taken into one's family by legal means.
養親
B2Adoptive parent.
