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分がある (ぶがある) Japanese meaning | Kotomora

分ぶがある

Meanings

1

expression, godan verb (-ru, irregular)

have an advantage; have the upper hand; be favored to win

Used when someone or something is in a favorable position, especially in competition or comparison. Often appears in the form 分がある.

See also: 分

経けい験けんでは彼かれに分ぶがある。
He has the advantage in experience.
この試し合あいは我われ々われに分ぶがある。
We are favored to win this match.

Kanji

分part, minute of time, segment

Similar words

有ゆう利り
有利 is a na-adjective meaning 'advantageous' or 'favorable', used in a wider range of contexts. 分がある is a set phrase specifically for having an edge in a contest or comparison.

Etymology

The expression combines 分 (ぶ, 'portion' or 'share') with がある ('to have'), literally 'to have a share'. The sense of advantage likely derives from having a larger or better portion in a comparison.