Translation guide
The English word 'fostering' can refer to raising a child who is not one's biological offspring, or more broadly to nurturing growth, development, or skills. This guide covers both senses, with a focus on natural Japanese expressions.
They are fostering a child.
Refers to a foster child. Often used in the context of the child being fostered.
She took in a foster child.
A formal term meaning 'to nurture' or 'to bring up', often used in legal or official contexts regarding foster care.
The organization is fostering children.
Refers to the foster care system itself, not the act of fostering.
Learn about the foster care system.
To encourage the development of something, such as a skill, quality, or relationship.
A warm, nurturing word for fostering growth, often used for relationships, talents, or communities. Implies careful, sustained effort.
Fostering friendship is important.
Means 'to promote' or 'to accelerate'. Suitable for fostering economic growth, development, or progress.
A general verb for raising or bringing up. Can be used metaphorically for fostering skills or qualities, though less warm than 育む.
Means 'to promote' or 'to encourage', but often carries a negative connotation of fostering something undesirable (e.g., bad habits). Use with caution.
Often used for negative things like fostering dependency or bad habits.
育む (はぐくむ) implies a gentle, nurturing process, often used for abstract things like love or trust. 育てる (そだてる) is more general and can be used for plants, animals, children, or skills. For 'fostering' in the sense of nurturing growth, 育む is often the better choice.
Foster trust.
Grow plants.
The English word 'foster' as a verb does not have a single exact equivalent in Japanese. Avoid directly translating 'foster a child' as 子供を里親する (incorrect). Use the phrases provided.
Foster a child's talent.
Policies that foster economic growth.
リーダーシップを育てる。
Foster leadership.
Foster dependency.