Translation and Meaning of: 誂える - atsuraeru

If you've ever requested something custom-made or ordered a special dish at a Japanese restaurant, you may have used or heard the word 誂える (あつらえる). This verb carries a sense of personalization, of something made exactly as you wish. In this article, we will explore its etymology, the kanji that composes it, its use in everyday life, and even tips to memorize it. Here at Suki Nihongo, you can also find ready-made sentences to study in Anki and understand how this word appears in real contexts.

Many people search on Google not only for the meaning of 誂える, but also for its origin and how to apply it in daily situations. Is it common in informal conversations? Is there a trick to its kanji? These are some of the questions we will answer next.

Etymology and Kanji: What Does 誂える Hide?

The word 誂える is formed by the kanji 誂, which combines the radical 言 (word, speech) with 兆 (omen, sign). Together, they suggest the idea of "indicating with words," that is, specifying what one wants. Interestingly, this kanji is not one of the most common in modern Japanese, but it appears in contexts where there is a custom request, such as ordering a suit or a special dish.

Some linguists point out that the verb emerged during the Edo period, when artisans and merchants began to cater to more specific customer demands. Imagine a master carpenter receiving detailed instructions to create a unique piece — this is the essence of あつらえる. It is no wonder that it is still used in situations that involve refinement and exclusivity.

Everyday Lies: When and How to Say 誂える?

Unlike words like 注文する (to place a generic order), 誂える implies a greater degree of customization. You would use it, for example, when ordering a tailored dress: "このドレスを誂えたいです" (I want to order this dress). Fine restaurants also use the term for dishes prepared according to the customer's taste, like sushi with specific ingredients.

A common mistake among learners is to think that 誂える can be used for any type of request. In fact, it sounds strange in everyday contexts like buying a coffee — unless you are ordering a drink with unusual combinations. Do you see the difference? It's like comparing "buying a book" with "ordering a custom edition."

Tips for Memorizing and Curiosities

To not forget the kanji 誂, that it combines "speech" (言) and "sign" (兆). Think of "giving a verbal sign of what you want." A friend of mine memorized this by associating the image of someone pointing at a menu and saying, "I want it exactly like this!" It worked so well that she never confused it with 注文する again.

A cultural curiosity: in Kyoto, traditional wagashi (Japanese sweets) shops often use 誂える for sweets made to order on special occasions, such as tea ceremonies. If you ever visit the city, try asking: "誂えられますか？" (Can you make it to order?). The response might come with a surprised smile — and an exclusive sweet.

Vocabulary

Expand your vocabulary with related words:

Synonyms and similar words

• 整える (totonoe-ru) - Organize, tidy up, prepare
• 調える (to時え-ru) - Prepare, adjust (often related to seasoning or balancing)
• 調整する (chousei suru) - Adjust, regulate (focus on adjusting systems or situations)