Meaning and Usage
The verb 贈る (おくる) primarily means "to give" or "to present" something to someone, often as a gift or award. It is used in contexts where the giving is thoughtful or formal, such as giving presents, awards, or tokens of appreciation.
Common Contexts
贈る is frequently used when talking about giving gifts on special occasions like birthdays, anniversaries, or ceremonies. It can also be used for awarding prizes or honors.
Collocations and Patterns
- 贈り物をする (おくりものをする): to give a gift
- 賞を贈る (しょうをおくる): to award a prize
- 花を贈る (はなをおくる): to give flowers
These collocations emphasize the act of giving with a sense of respect or gratitude.
Register and Politeness
贈る is a polite and somewhat formal verb, suitable for written and spoken Japanese when discussing gifts or awards. It is more formal than simply あげる or くれる.
Common Mistakes
Learners sometimes confuse 贈る with あげる or くれる. While all mean "to give," 贈る implies a more formal or ceremonial giving, often involving gifts or awards, rather than casual giving.