Translation guide
The act of carrying something on one's shoulder, or the metaphorical sense of taking on a burden or responsibility.
Physically carrying something on one's shoulder, such as a bag, a load, or a person.
The most common way to say 'to carry on one's shoulder'. 担ぐ (かつぐ) specifically means to shoulder something.
He carried the heavy load on his shoulder.
The verb 'katsugu' alone can imply shouldering, often used for carrying things like bags, rifles, or even people in a playful context.
To carry a child on one's shoulders.
Literally 'to place on the shoulder', used when putting something like a bird or a small object on the shoulder, not necessarily carrying a heavy load.
He has a parrot on his shoulder.
Specifically refers to carrying a person (usually a child) on one's shoulders, with legs dangling in front. A noun, often used with する.
The father gave his son a shoulder ride.
Metaphorically shouldering a duty, blame, or difficult task.
The standard phrase for 'to shoulder responsibility'. 負う (おう) means to bear or take on.
He is shouldering all the responsibility for the project.
Literally 'to carry a heavy load on one's back', metaphorically means to shoulder a heavy burden or responsibility. 背負う (せおう) is often used for burdens.
Means to take over someone else's burden or responsibility, to shoulder something on behalf of another.
I shouldered his debt.
To take on or undertake a task or responsibility, often willingly. Can be used for shouldering a role or duty.
Using one's shoulder to push or force one's way, as in a crowd or through a door.
担ぐ (かつぐ) is specifically for carrying on the shoulder, while 背負う (せおう) is for carrying on the back. For metaphorical burdens, 背負う is more common, but 担ぐ can also be used for shouldering a role or task.
The English gerund 'shouldering' often has no direct Japanese equivalent. Use the appropriate verb phrase depending on context. Avoid directly translating 'shouldering' as a noun.
She is shouldering the heavy burden of her family's expectations.
I shouldered a difficult task.
He shouldered his way through the crowd.