Meaning and Usage
The verb "届ける" (とどける) primarily means "to deliver" or "to send something to a destination." It is a transitive verb, so it requires a direct object, such as a package, letter, or report.
Common Contexts
- Physical delivery: Used when delivering tangible items like parcels or letters.
- Reporting: Used in formal contexts to mean "to report" or "to notify," especially to authorities.
Collocations and Patterns
- 荷物を届ける: to deliver a package
- 手紙を届ける: to deliver a letter
- 事件を届ける: to report an incident
Register and Politeness
"届ける" is neutral and can be used in both casual and formal contexts. When making requests, it is often combined with polite forms like "届けてください."
Common Mistakes
Learners sometimes confuse "届ける" with "届く" (とどく), which is intransitive and means "to arrive" or "to reach." Remember, "届ける" requires a direct object and means "to deliver something."