ichidan verb, transitive verb
work for; be employed at; serve in
Only when written 勤める
Used when someone holds a job at a company, organization, or institution. Typically written 勤める.
彼は大手商社に勤めている。
He works for a major trading company.
姉は市役所に勤めています。
My older sister is employed at the city hall.
ichidan verb, transitive verb
serve as; act as; fill the role of
Only when written 務める
Used when someone takes on a specific role, duty, or position, such as chairperson, host, or representative. Typically written 務める.
彼が会議の議長を務めた。
He served as the chairperson of the meeting.
彼女はパーティーの司会を務める。
She acts as the host of the party.
ichidan verb, transitive verb
conduct a religious service
Only when written 勤める
Specific to officiating or leading a religious ceremony. Usually written 勤める.
神父がミサを勤めた。
The priest conducted the Mass.