送る

おくる

to send, to dispatch

JLPT N4

Character Breakdown

Meaning and Usage

The verb 送る (おくる) primarily means "to send" or "to dispatch" something such as letters, packages, or messages. It is a common verb used in everyday situations involving sending physical items or digital information.

Different Contexts

Besides sending objects, 送る can also mean "to see someone off" or "to escort" someone to a place, often used when accompanying someone to a station or airport.

Common Collocations

  • 手紙を送る (てがみをおくる): to send a letter
  • 荷物を送る (にもつをおくる): to send a package
  • 駅まで送る (えきまでおくる): to see someone off to the station

Register and Politeness

送る is a neutral verb and can be used in both casual and polite contexts. For polite speech, use the ます-form: 送ります.

Common Mistakes

Learners sometimes confuse 送る with 持っていく (to take something) or 出す (to send out/mail). Remember 送る emphasizes the act of sending or dispatching, often implying the item leaves your possession.

Example Sentences

ともだちにてがみをおくる。

I send a letter to my friend.

にもつをたくはいびんでおくる。

I send a package by courier.

かれをえきまでおくる。

I see him off to the station.