Meaning and Usage
The verb "いたわる" means to care for someone with kindness and sympathy, often used when referring to taking care of someone who is sick, tired, or in need of emotional support. It conveys a gentle and considerate attitude.
Common Contexts
This word is frequently used in contexts involving caregiving, such as looking after family members, comforting colleagues, or showing respect and kindness to the elderly.
Collocations and Patterns
- "疲れをいたわる" (to sympathize with someone's fatigue): used when acknowledging someone's tiredness and offering comfort.
- "病気の人をいたわる" (to care for a sick person): used in caregiving contexts.
- "高齢者をいたわる" (to care for the elderly): expresses respect and kindness toward older people.
Register and Nuance
"いたわる" is a polite and somewhat formal verb, often found in written language or respectful speech. It implies a deeper emotional involvement than simply "care" or "help".
Common Mistakes
Learners sometimes confuse "いたわる" with more general verbs like "助ける" (to help) or "看護する" (to nurse). Remember that "いたわる" emphasizes emotional sympathy and gentle care rather than just physical assistance.