Usage and Nuance
"給う" (たまう) is a classical and highly respectful verb used primarily in formal or literary contexts. It means "to give" or "to grant" when referring to someone of higher status bestowing something upon the speaker or others. It can also mean "to receive" in a humble or respectful way, depending on context.
Common Contexts
This verb appears often in historical texts, religious writings, and formal speeches. It is rarely used in everyday conversation but is important for understanding classical Japanese and formal honorific language.
Collocations and Patterns
- 給うた (past tense): used to describe something given by a superior.
- お力を給うたまえ: a formal request for someone’s power or help.
- 神のご加護を給う: receiving divine protection.
Register and Politeness
"給う" is a very polite and archaic verb. Modern Japanese speakers typically use other verbs like "くださる" or "いただく" for similar meanings in daily conversation.
Common Mistake
Learners sometimes confuse "給う" with the more common "もらう" (to receive) or "くれる" (to give), but "給う" carries a strong nuance of respect and formality and is not interchangeable in casual contexts.