Meaning and Usage
The word 母 (はは) specifically refers to one's own mother and is used in polite or neutral contexts when talking about your mother to others. It is a common N5-level noun.
Common Contexts
You will often hear 母 used in daily conversation when talking about family, such as describing what your mother does, calling her, or mentioning her cooking.
Collocations and Patterns
- 母は + [verb]: Describes what your mother does (e.g., 母は働いています - My mother is working).
- 母に + [action verb]: Indicates an action directed toward your mother (e.g., 母に電話をかける - to call mother).
- 母の + [noun]: Shows possession or relation (e.g., 母の名前 - mother's name).
Register and Politeness
When speaking directly to your mother, you usually use お母さん (おかあさん) or 母さん (かあさん) instead. 母 is more often used when talking about your mother to others.
Common Mistake
Learners sometimes confuse 母 (はは) with お母さん (おかあさん). Remember, 母 is used when referring to your mother in third person, while お母さん is used when addressing her or in polite speech.