Meaning and Usage
The verb 譲る (ゆずる) primarily means "to give up" or "to hand over" something to someone else. It can be used in both physical and abstract contexts, such as giving up a seat, transferring rights, or conceding a point in a competition.
Common Contexts
- Physical giving up: Often used when someone gives up a seat or place to another person, especially out of politeness or respect.
- Legal or formal transfer: Used when transferring ownership, rights, or responsibilities.
- Concession in competition: Can express not yielding or yielding in contests or arguments.
Collocations and Patterns
- 席を譲る (せきをゆずる): to give up a seat, commonly used in public transport or social settings.
- 権利を譲る (けんりをゆずる): to transfer rights, often in legal or business contexts.
- 勝利を譲らない (しょうりをゆずらない): to not concede victory, showing determination.
Register and Politeness
This verb is neutral and can be used in both formal and informal situations. It often appears in polite contexts when showing respect or consideration.
Common Mistakes
Learners sometimes confuse 譲る with 渡す (わたす), which means "to hand over" but lacks the nuance of yielding or giving up voluntarily. 譲る implies a voluntary concession or transfer, often with a sense of respect or sacrifice.