to yield

JLPT N5 5 strokes

Words with this Kanji

Usage of (ràng)

The character is a versatile verb commonly used to express yielding, allowing, or causing someone to do something. It often appears in contexts where one person permits or requests another to take an action.

Common meanings

  • To yield or give way, especially in traffic or social situations.
  • To let or allow someone to do something.
  • To cause or make someone do something (similar to 'have someone do').

Typical collocations and patterns

  • + person + verb: to let or allow someone to do something (e.g., - let him go).
  • + noun: to yield or give way to someone or something (e.g., - give up a seat).
  • + verb: to refuse to allow (e.g., - not allow to enter).

Pragmatic notes

When using , the speaker often implies a polite or socially expected yielding or permission. It can soften commands or requests, making them more indirect. In traffic or public settings, is frequently used to ask others to give way.

Common confusion

Don't confuse with (to give). focuses on yielding or causing an action, while is more about direct giving. Also, can imply causation (making someone do something), which does not.

Summary

Mastering helps learners express permission, causation, and polite yielding in everyday conversations, making it a very practical and high-frequency word.

Example Sentences

Please make way, I need to get off the bus.

Mom wants me to come home early.

He doesn't let others touch his computer.

In China, when driving, you must yield to pedestrians first.

The teacher lets the students discuss this problem in groups.