Translation guide
The English phrase 'provide for' has two main meanings: to supply what is needed for someone's care or livelihood, and to make preparations or legal arrangements for a future event. This guide covers natural Japanese expressions for both.
To supply money, food, housing, or other necessities to a person, especially a family member or dependent.
The most direct and common verb for providing for a family or dependents, implying ongoing financial and emotional support.
He works hard to provide for his family.
A formal term often used in legal or tax contexts for supporting dependents.
He provides for his elderly parents.
Means 'to take care of' or 'look after' someone, often implying providing for their daily needs.
She provides for her younger brother.
Literally 'support someone's livelihood', used when emphasizing financial provision.
His income provides for the whole family.
To include provisions in a law, contract, or plan to deal with a possible future situation.
Common verb meaning 'to prepare for' or 'make provisions for', often used with に.
I save money to provide for the future.
Used in formal contexts when a law, rule, or contract stipulates or provides for something.
Similar to 規定する, meaning 'to stipulate' or 'lay down', often in legal or official documents.
Means 'to take into account' or 'allow for', used when a plan provides for a possibility.
養う is the everyday word for providing for family. 扶養する is a formal, legal term used in tax forms or official documents when claiming dependents.
dependent (for tax purposes)
提供する means 'to provide (something)' like a service or goods, not 'to provide for (someone)'. Using it for supporting a person sounds unnatural.
The law provides for emergencies.
The contract provides for termination conditions.
法律は罰則を定めている。
The law provides for penalties.
The plan provides for delays.