Meaning and Usage
"温める" (あたためる) primarily means "to warm" or "to heat" something. It is commonly used when referring to heating food or drinks, but it can also be used metaphorically to describe warming up a situation or atmosphere.
Common Contexts
You will often hear "温める" when talking about reheating meals, warming hands or body parts, or even warming up relationships or moods.
Collocations and Patterns
- 電子レンジで温める: to warm something in the microwave
- 手を温める: to warm one's hands
- 雰囲気を温める: to warm up the atmosphere or mood
Register and Politeness
"温める" is a neutral verb suitable for everyday conversation and writing. It is neither overly formal nor casual.
Common Mistakes
Learners sometimes confuse "温める" with "熱する" (ねっする), which also means "to heat" but is more formal and often used in scientific or technical contexts. Use "温める" for everyday warming or heating situations.