Meaning and Usage
The verb 通う (かよう) primarily means "to go back and forth" between two places regularly, such as commuting to school or work. It often implies a habitual or repeated action rather than a one-time trip.
Common Contexts
You will frequently see 通う used when talking about commuting to school, work, or a place you visit regularly, like a gym or a shop. It can also describe the relationship between people, such as feelings or communication "passing back and forth."
Collocations and Patterns
- 学校に通う: to attend school regularly
- 会社に通う: to commute to the company/work
- 電車で通う: to commute by train
- 長年通う: to go regularly for many years
- 通いながら: while commuting or attending
Register and Nuance
通う is a neutral verb suitable for both casual and polite contexts. It emphasizes the regularity and continuity of movement between two points.
Common Learner Mistake
Learners sometimes confuse 通う with 行く (to go) or 来る (to come), but 通う specifically stresses the repeated or habitual nature of the movement, not just a single trip. Use 通う when you want to express regular attendance or commuting.