Meaning and Usage
The verb 持つ (もつ) primarily means "to hold" or "to carry" something physically. It is also commonly used to express possession or having abstract qualities like feelings, opinions, or characteristics.
Common Contexts
- Physical holding or carrying: You can use 持つ when talking about holding objects like bags, books, or tools.
- Possession or ownership: 持つ can describe owning something tangible or intangible, such as a reputation, a passport, or a skill.
- Abstract qualities: It is often used to express having feelings, intentions, or qualities, e.g., 持つ意志 (strong will).
Collocations and Patterns
- 持つ + object: to physically hold or carry something.
- 信用を持つ: to have trust or credibility.
- 意志を持つ: to have willpower or determination.
- パスポートを持つ: to have a passport.
Register and Politeness
持つ is a neutral verb and can be used in both casual and formal contexts. When used in polite speech, it becomes 持ちます.
Common Mistakes
Learners sometimes confuse 持つ with 持っている. 持っている is the continuous form and often used to emphasize the current state of having or holding something. For example, 持つ is the dictionary form, while 持っている is used more naturally in conversation to say "I have" or "I am holding."