Meaning and Usage
抱っこ (だっこ) specifically refers to holding or carrying a child or baby in one's arms. It is a very common word used by parents and caregivers when talking about physically holding a child close.
Common Contexts
You will often hear 抱っこ when a child wants to be held, or when describing the act of holding a baby to comfort or soothe them. It is usually informal and affectionate.
Collocations and Patterns
- 抱っこする: to hold or carry a child
- 抱っこをせがむ: a child begging to be held
- 抱っこ紐 (だっこひも): baby carrier, a strap or sling used to carry a baby hands-free
Usage Notes
This word is almost exclusively used for children or babies. Using 抱っこ for adults or objects would sound strange. Also, it conveys a sense of closeness and affection, not just physically carrying.
Common Mistakes
Learners sometimes confuse 抱っこ with 抱く (だく), which is a more general verb meaning "to hold" or "to embrace" and can be used for adults or abstract concepts. 抱っこ is more specific and colloquial, mainly for children.