とWith a companion or partner
と marks the person, animal, or group with whom someone does something or takes part in a mutual relationship.
Choosing the companion
Place と after the companion or partner. The verb then describes a shared activity or a relationship involving both sides, such as meeting, talking, playing, or marrying.
Asking who the companion is
A narrow contrast with the target marker
With 会う, both と and に can occur. The first often presents the other person as a meeting partner, while the second presents that person as the one encountered or met. This is a tendency with this verb, not a universal rule for choosing between the two particles.
More examples
友達と公園を散歩します。
I take walks in the park with a friend.
Analyze母とスーパーへ行きました。
I went to the supermarket with my mother.
Analyze来月、大学の友達と旅行します。
Next month, I’m going on a trip with a university friend.
Analyze弟は犬と遊んでいます。
My younger brother is playing with the dog.
Analyze山田さんは来年、恋人と結婚します。
Yamada will marry their partner next year.
Analyze会議のあと、部長と話しました。
After the meeting, I spoke with the department manager.
Analyze