Translation and Meaning of: 預ける - azukeru

If you've ever had to leave something important with someone you trust, whether it's a document, a valuable object, or even a child, the Japanese verb 預ける [あずける] is the right word to describe this action. In this article, we will delve deep into the etymology, everyday use, and even curiosities about this essential term in Japanese vocabulary. Furthermore, you will discover how to memorize it easily and understand why it frequently appears in contexts such as banks, child care, and even in informal situations.

In Suki Nihongo, the largest online Japanese dictionary, you can find not only the translation of 預ける but also practical examples for use in everyday sentences. If you study with Anki or another spaced repetition system, you can take advantage of the structures we will show you to firmly cement this verb in your memory. Shall we get started?

Etymology and Composition of the Kanji

The kanji 預ける is composed of two main elements: 預 and ける. The radical 預 carries the idea of "custody" or "deposit," while ける is a verbal suffix that indicates action. Together, they form a verb that literally means "to place under someone's care." Interestingly, the character 預 also appears in words like 預金 [よきん] (bank deposit), showing its connection to the idea of securely storing something.

If you have ever had to leave a suitcase in a coin locker (ロッカー) at a station in Japan, you have probably seen this verb in action. The Japanese use 預ける for situations ranging from leaving a pet at the pet shop to entrusting important documents to a lawyer. The word has a tone of implicit trust, almost as if you are saying: "I know that this will be safe with you."

Lies in Japanese Everyday Life

One of the most common situations in which the Japanese use 預ける is when dropping children off at school or at the hoikuen (daycare). Phrases like 子供を保育園に預ける [こどもをほいくえんにあずける] are heard daily among working parents. The verb also appears in more serious contexts, such as when someone needs to leave an elderly relative in the care of a nursing home (老人ホームに預ける).

In banks, the term takes on a more formal meaning. When you make a deposit, you are technically お金を預ける (leaving money under the custody of the institution). This versatility makes 預ける one of those verbs that every Japanese language student needs to master early on. Have you ever thought about how useful it would be to say "Can I leave my luggage here?" in Japanese while traveling?

Tips for Memorization and Curiosities

A foolproof way to 預ける is to associate it with real-life situations. Imagine yourself in a hotel in Japan, saying 荷物をフロントに預けてもいいですか？ (May I leave my luggage at the front desk?). This type of practical association helps to reinforce not only the meaning but also the pronunciation and kanji. Another tip is to note that the radical 預 resembles the idea of "hand" (手) over something - as if we are handing an object to someone.

An interesting fact is that 預ける is not used only for physical objects. In the Japanese corporate world, it is common to hear phrases like このプロジェクトを山田さんに預ける (I will leave this project under Yamada's responsibility). This shows how the verb can express both the custody of items and the transfer of responsibilities. So, are you ready to start using 預ける in your Japanese conversations?

Vocabulary

Expand your vocabulary with related words:

Verb conjugation of 預ける

• 預ける あずける - Positive form affirmative indicative
• 預けます あずけます - Polite affirmative positive form
• 預けない あずけない - Negative affirmative indicative form
• 預けません あずけません - Polite affirmative negative form

Synonyms and similar words

• 預かる (Azukaru) - To store, to take care of something temporarily
• 預け入れる (Azukeireru) - Deposit, leave something in custody
• 預ける (Azukeru) - Delegate, leave (something) in the care of another person
• 保管する (Hokan suru) - Store, keep something safely stored