Meaning and Usage
The verb 及ぼす (およぼす) means "to exert," "to cause," or "to have an influence on" something. It is often used in formal or written contexts to describe the effect or impact one thing has on another, especially in abstract or broad terms like influence, damage, or consequences.
Common Contexts
You will frequently see 及ぼす used with words like 影響 (えいきょう, influence/effect), 被害 (ひがい, damage), or 作用 (さよう, effect). It often appears in discussions about environmental issues, social effects, or health impacts.
Collocations and Patterns
- 影響を及ぼす: to have an influence or effect
- 被害を及ぼす: to cause damage
- 悪影響を及ぼす: to cause a negative effect
These collocations emphasize the causative and impactful nature of the verb.
Register and Politeness
及ぼす is generally neutral to formal and is more common in written language, news reports, academic writing, and formal speeches rather than casual conversation.
Common Learner Pitfall
Learners sometimes confuse 及ぼす with simpler verbs like 与える (あたえる, to give) or する (to do). Remember that 及ぼす specifically implies exerting an influence or causing an effect, often with a nuance of impact or consequence, rather than just giving or doing something.