とも

accompanying, attendant, companion, retinue

JLPT N3

Character Breakdown

Usage of

The character (gōng) primarily means "to supply" or "to provide for." It is commonly used in contexts involving the provision of resources, such as electricity, water, or financial support. For example, (gōngdiàn) means "to supply electricity," and (gōngshuǐ) means "to supply water."

Another important use is in the sense of "supporting" or "providing for" family members, especially elders, as in 供养 (gōngyǎng), which means "to support financially or materially."

Additionally, is used in religious or ritual contexts to mean "to offer" or "to present," such as 供奉 (gòngfèng), meaning "to offer sacrifices or offerings," often to ancestors or deities.

Common Collocations

  • (gōngdiàn): supply electricity, used in utilities and infrastructure contexts.
  • (gōngshuǐ): supply water, similar usage as .
  • 供养 (gōngyǎng): support financially, often used for family support.
  • 供奉 (gòngfèng): offer or present offerings, used in religious or ceremonial contexts.

Notes

When using , it often appears in compound words rather than alone. It conveys a formal or official tone when referring to supplying or supporting. Avoid confusing with 供给 (gōngjǐ), which is a more general term for "to supply" or "to provide" but can be more neutral or technical.

In ritual contexts, has a respectful and solemn nuance, emphasizing the act of offering with reverence.

Example Sentences

The company is responsible for supplying electricity and water services.

He supports his elderly parents every month.

During the ritual, people offer ancestral tablets.