Translation guide
The English verb 'give' covers many situations. Japanese uses different verbs depending on what is given, to whom, and the social relationship. The core distinction is between あげる (give to others/out-group) and くれる (give to me/in-group). For physical objects, 渡す (hand over) is common. For abstract things like advice or permission, other verbs are used.
Expressing the physical act of handing something over or transferring possession.
Use when the giver is the speaker (or in-group) and the receiver is someone else. Implies a downward or equal relationship; can sound presumptuous if the receiver is of higher status.
I gave a present to my friend.
Use when someone gives something to the speaker or the speaker's in-group. The giver is the subject marked with が or は. Conveys a sense of gratitude or favor.
Focuses on the physical act of handing something over. Neutral regarding social direction. Often used when the transfer is direct and immediate.
Humble form of あげる. Use when the giver is the speaker and the receiver is of higher status. Very polite.
Honorific form of くれる. Use when someone of higher status gives something to the speaker. Shows respect to the giver.
Giving abstract things like advice, permission, information, or an opportunity.
Specifically giving something as a gift, often on special occasions.
Loanword from English 'present'. Very common for casual gift-giving.
Granting someone the right or freedom to do something.
Pattern meaning 'it's okay to do ~'. Used to give permission casually.
Delivering a speech, lecture, concert, etc.
Means 'to hold' or 'conduct' an event. Commonly used for speeches, ceremonies, concerts.
Surrendering, quitting, or handing over control.
Producing light, smell, sound, etc.
Literary verb for emitting light, smell, or aura.
Making a phone call or sending a message.
あげる means 'give' from the speaker's perspective outward. くれる means 'give' from someone else to the speaker/in-group. もらう means 'receive'. The choice depends on who is the giver and who is the receiver relative to the speaker's in-group. Using the wrong one can sound unnatural or rude.
I gave a book to my friend.
Can you give me a ride to the station?
My mother gave me money.
Please hand the documents to the receptionist.
I gave a souvenir to the company president.
先生が推薦状をくださいました。
The teacher gave me a letter of recommendation.
General verb for giving abstract things (influence, impression, permission, etc.). Can be used in both directions. Often formal or written.
This book gave many people influence. (influenced many people)
Attach to a verb's て-form to mean 'do something for someone'. Implies a favor. Use with care as it can sound condescending.
I'll carry your luggage for you.
Attach to a verb's て-form to mean 'someone does something for me/us'. Expresses gratitude.
My friend helped me (gave me help).
Formal term for providing services, information, or opportunities. Common in business contexts.
Our company provides information free of charge.
I gave her flowers as a present.
Formal verb for giving a gift, often used for ceremonial or official gifts.
We gave the graduates a commemorative gift.
You can take pictures here. (I give you permission.)
Formal verb for granting permission. Used in official contexts.
My boss gave me permission to take a vacation.
He gave a lecture.
Simple verb 'to do'. Used with nouns like スピーチ (speech) to mean 'give a speech'.
She gave a speech.
Means 'to give up' on a goal or attempt. Not for giving objects.
He gave up on his dream.
Means 'to yield' or 'hand over' a right, seat, or position to someone else.
I gave up my seat to an elderly person.
The flower gave off a strong scent.
General verb for putting out or emitting something. Used for sound, light, smoke.
The stove is giving off heat.
I'll give you a call later.
Means 'to contact' or 'get in touch'. Broader than phone calls.
I'll give you a call/message tomorrow.
友達が私に本をくれた。
My friend gave me a book.
I received a book from my friend.
Saying '私にあげて' is incorrect. Use 'ください' for polite requests, or 'ちょうだい' in casual speech. For favors, use '〜てください' or '〜てくれませんか'.
Please give me that.
Could you give me a hand?
The auxiliary verbs 〜てあげる and 〜てくれる add the nuance of doing a favor. 〜てあげる can sound patronizing if used directly to a superior; it's safer to use 〜ましょうか (shall I?) or simply describe the action without the favor nuance.
Shall I help you? (safer than 手伝ってあげる)
I gave my seat to an elderly woman.
The teacher gave us a lot of homework.