Translation guide
To collect things or people together, often by picking them up or bringing them into one place.
To pick up and bring together items that are spread out.
Literally 'pick up and gather'. Used for collecting scattered objects like toys, papers, or trash.
The children gathered up the toys.
General verb for 'gather' or 'collect'. Can be used for objects, but may not imply picking up from the ground.
Please gather up the papers on the floor.
To scrape together or rake up, often used for gathering things hastily or with effort.
I gathered up the fallen leaves and put them in a bag.
To assemble or collect people in one place.
To summon or muster an inner quality like courage or energy.
To collect one's things in preparation to depart.
集める is a general verb for gathering or collecting. 拾い集める specifically means to pick up and gather scattered items, often from the ground. Use 拾い集める when the action involves bending down or picking up individual pieces.
He gathered up his friends.
She gathered up her strength and kept running.
Please gather up your belongings so you don't leave anything behind.