Meaning and Usage
The verb 催す (もよおす) primarily means "to hold" or "to host" events such as meetings, parties, or ceremonies. It is often used in formal or business contexts when referring to organizing or conducting an event.
Besides this, 催す also describes the onset of physical or emotional sensations, such as feeling tired, angry, or nauseous. This usage is more literary or formal and often appears in written Japanese.
Common Collocations
- 催す 会議 (もよおす かいぎ): to hold a meeting
- 催す パーティー: to host a party
- 怒りを催す (いかりをもよおす): to feel anger rising
- 疲れを催す (つかれをもよおす): to begin to feel tired
Register and Nuance
When used to mean "hold an event," 催す is polite and formal, suitable for business or official announcements. When describing feelings or physical sensations, it has a somewhat literary tone and is less common in casual conversation.
Common Mistakes
Learners sometimes confuse 催す with 開く (ひらく) or 行う (おこなう), which also mean "to hold" or "to open" events. 催す often implies a more formal or organized event. Also, remember that 催す can describe internal sensations, which these other verbs cannot.
Use 催す when you want to emphasize the formal hosting of an event or the onset of a feeling or physical reaction.