Translation guide
The English verb 'cultivate' covers growing crops, developing skills or relationships, and fostering attitudes. Japanese uses different words depending on what is being cultivated.
To prepare and use land for growing plants, especially crops.
The most common and general term for cultivating plants, especially crops. Used for farming and gardening.
They cultivate rice in this region.
Focuses on tilling or plowing the soil. Often used for preparing land for planting.
Farmers cultivate the fields in spring.
Means 'to grow' or 'to raise' plants. More general and can be used for non-crop plants as well.
My grandmother cultivates flowers in her garden.
To try to acquire or develop a skill, quality, or relationship over time.
Used for cultivating abstract things like patience, taste, or relationships. Implies nurturing over time.
Reading cultivates imagination.
Similar to 養う, but often used for cultivating trust, relationships, or organizational culture. Slightly more formal.
Literally 'to polish'. Used for refining skills or talents, like 'cultivating an eye for beauty'.
A poetic word for nurturing something with care, like love or a sense of community. Often used in formal or literary contexts.
To try to get someone's friendship or support, often for personal gain.
All three can translate 'cultivate' for abstract qualities. 養う is the most general and common. 培う is often used for relationships and trust, slightly more formal. 育む is poetic and implies careful nurturing over a long period, often used in formal speeches or writing.
栽培する is only for plants/crops. Using it for skills or relationships sounds unnatural and humorous, like 'farming patience'.
He cultivated his skills through years of effort.
信頼関係を培うには時間がかかる。
It takes time to cultivate a trusting relationship.
She goes to museums to cultivate her aesthetic sense.
地域の絆を育むことが大切です。
It is important to cultivate community bonds.
彼女は権力者に取り入ろうとしている。
She is trying to cultivate the powerful people.