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他を当たる (ほかをあたる) Japanese meaning | Kotomora
Meanings 1
expression, godan verb (-ru)
ask elsewhere ; try another place
Used when the current store, service, or person cannot help, and you suggest or decide to go somewhere else. Often a polite refusal or practical advice.
て
ください
。
Regarding your inquiry, please ask elsewhere.
Written forms 他ほか を 当あ たる
Standard kanji spelling for this expression.
他ほか をあたる
Kana spelling of 当たる; common in everyday writing.
Kanji 他 other, another, the others Similar words 当あ たる 他を当たる is a fixed expression meaning 'to try another place/person'. The base verb 当たる has many meanings including 'to hit', 'to be right', 'to consult', etc., but here it specifically means 'to inquire' or 'to try'.
Etymology A set phrase combining 他 (ほか, 'other') + を + 当たる (あたる, here 'to inquire' or 'to try'). The exact historical derivation is uncertain, but it is a conventional expression for seeking help or service elsewhere.
