Meaning
The kanji 与 is rich with meanings, encompassing 'to give,' 'to bestow,' 'to participate in,' and 'to be involved.' Originally a simplified form of 興, its fundamental essence lies in interaction and involvement – whether you're giving something or taking part in an activity. This kanji is crucial for understanding various actions, from providing assistance to contributing to a collective effort.
The etymology of 与 offers a unique glimpse into its origins, tracing back to the ancient character 興. This older form is thought to depict four hands symmetrically lifting or moving a precious object, perhaps ivory, suggesting cooperation and joint effort. This initial sense of 'working jointly' or 'cooperating' gradually evolved to include 'participating' in a group activity. Finally, the act of passing an object from one person to another led to the meaning 'to give' or 'to grant.' It's an interesting evolution, moving from collective action to individual acts of giving and involvement.
The visual shape of the modern 与 kanji, with its simple three strokes, might not immediately convey this rich history. However, its streamlined form is a testament to the evolution of written language, distilling complex imagery into an efficient symbol. The radical is 一 (ichi), representing 'one' or 'horizontal stroke,' which is its top stroke. Despite its simplicity, this three-stroke kanji holds a surprisingly broad range of meanings. This kanji is designated at the JLPT N2 level, highlighting its importance for intermediate to advanced Japanese vocabulary. Furthermore, it's considered a general-use kanji, crucial for everyday communication.
Readings
On'yomi (音読み) — Chinese-derived readings
The primary On'yomi reading for 与 is 「ヨ」 (yo). This reading is derived from Chinese and is predominantly used when 与 is part of a compound word (熟語, jukugo). It often implies a more formal or administrative context, carrying the nuances of 'giving,' 'providing,' or 'participating' in a structured manner.
- 給与 (kyūyo) — meaning: salary, pay, allowance. This term refers to the compensation given to an employee for their work.
- 与党 (yotō) — meaning: ruling party. This refers to the political party that holds the majority in government. In this context, 与 implies the party that 'gives' direction and 'participates' in governing.
- 授与 (juyo) — meaning: awarding, conferring. This is used when formally giving a prize, degree, or honor.
Kun'yomi (訓読み) — Native Japanese readings
The Kun'yomi readings of 与 are native Japanese pronunciations and are used when the kanji stands alone or is part of a Japanese verb. These readings often convey the action or state more directly and are integral to everyday Japanese expression.
- 与える (ataeru) — meaning: to give, to bestow, to grant, to cause. This is the most common Kun'yomi and implies actively providing something or causing an effect.
- 与る (azukaru) — meaning: to take part in, to be concerned with. This reading is less common in modern Japanese but signifies involvement or responsibility, often in formal situations.
- 与する (kumisuru) — meaning: to side with, to take part in, to join. This reading is more formal or literary and signifies aligning oneself with a particular group or cause.
- 与に (tomoni) — meaning: together with. This reading is less common in modern Japanese and often appears in classical texts or more literary contexts, emphasizing companionship or togetherness.
Common Words & Compounds
The kanji 与 forms a variety of compound words that reflect its diverse meanings related to giving, participation, and interaction. These compounds are frequently encountered in various contexts, from daily life to politics and academia.
Giving & Providing:
給与 (kyūyo) — salary, wages.
授与 (juyo) — awarding, presentation (of a prize).
供与 (kyōyo) — giving, furnishing, providing.
貸与 (taiyo) — lending, loaning.
贈与 (zōyo) — donation, gift (legal term).
Participation & Involvement:
関与 (kanyo) — participation, involvement.
参与 (sanyo) — participation, taking part; also an advisor title.
与党 (yotō) — ruling party.
寄与 (kiyo) — contribution, service.
Influence & Impact:
与える (ataeru) — to give, to bestow, to cause (e.g., an effect).
付与 (fuyo) — granting, providing, awarding.
関与率 (kanyoritsu) — rate of involvement.
Example Sentences
彼にもう一度チャンスを与えてください。
Kare ni mō ichido chansu o ataete kudasai.
Please give him another chance.
新しい技術は社会に大きな影響を与えるでしょう。
Atarashii gijutsu wa shakai ni ōkina eikyō o ataeru deshō.
New technology will have a big impact on society.
彼は政府の決定に深く関与している。
Kare wa seifu no kettei ni fukaku kanyo shite iru.
He is deeply involved in the government's decision.
会社の成長に大きく寄与しました。
Kaisha no seichō ni ōkiku kiyo shimashita.
He greatly contributed to the company's growth.
彼女は研究プロジェクトに積極的に関与しています。
Kanojo wa kenkyū purojekuto ni sekkyokuteki ni kanyo shite imasu.
She is actively involved in the research project.
国民は与党の政策に注目しています。
Kokumin wa yotō no seisaku ni chūmoku shite imasu.
The citizens are paying attention to the ruling party's policies.
卒業生に学位が授与された。
Sotsugyōsei ni gakui ga juyo sareta.
Degrees were awarded to the graduates.
貧しい人々に食料を供与する。
Mazushii hitobito ni shokuryō o kyōyo suru.
To provide food to poor people.
彼らはその計画に与することに同意した。
Karera wa sono keikaku ni kumi suru koto ni dōi shita.
They agreed to side with that plan.
Memory Tip
Imagine the kanji 与 as three simple strokes: the top horizontal stroke (一) and the two lower strokes resembling outstretched arms. These arms could be 'giving' something away, or two people joining 'together' for a common cause. This simple image helps symbolize the act of giving or joining. Focus on the core meanings of 'giving' or 'participating,' and let the kanji's straightforward form reinforce its directness.