Meaning and Usage
The verb 迎える (むかえる) primarily means "to welcome" or "to greet" someone or something. It is often used when meeting people arriving at a place, such as welcoming guests or friends at the airport or station.
Broader Uses
Beyond greeting people, 迎える can also mean "to迎接" an event or time, such as迎接 a new year or a milestone like retirement age. This usage implies entering or starting a new phase.
Common Collocations
- 友達を迎える: to welcome a friend
- 新しい年を迎える: to迎接 the new year
- 定年を迎える: to reach retirement age
Register and Politeness
迎える is a neutral verb suitable for both formal and informal contexts. It is commonly used in everyday conversation and writing.
Learner Tips
A common confusion is mixing 迎える with verbs like 会う (to meet). 迎える emphasizes the act of迎接 or welcoming someone, often with preparation or intention, while 会う is simply to meet or see someone. Use 迎える when you want to express the idea of迎接 or greeting someone arriving.