expression, ichidan verb
ask for instructions; seek someone's opinion; inquire
Polite expression used when formally asking a superior, expert, or authority for guidance, approval, or an opinion. Often used in business or official contexts.
新しい企画について、部長に伺いを立てた。
I asked the department head for instructions about the new project.
契
We need to consult a lawyer before changing the contract terms.
expression, ichidan verb
consult an oracle; invoke an oracle
Refers to seeking divine guidance or a supernatural sign, such as through fortune-telling or religious ritual. Less common in modern everyday speech.
昔の人は、戦の前に神様に伺いを立てた。
In the old days, people consulted the gods before going to war.