当て
Meanings
Refers to an intended target, objective, or purpose. Often used in phrases like 当てが外れる (to miss one's aim) or 当てにする (to count on).
His aim is to become a doctor.
The weather forecast was wrong, so my plans went awry.
expectations; hopes; prospects
Refers to something one expects or hopes for, often in the sense of relying on a future event or person. Common in 当てが外れる (expectations are dashed) or 当てにする (to count on).
You shouldn't count on him.
I'm pinning my hopes on winning the lottery.
something reliable; a sure thing
Refers to a person or thing that can be relied upon; a dependable resource. Often used in negative contexts to say something is not reliable.
He is an unreliable man.
This information is not reliable.
snack with alcohol; drinking snack
Kansai dialect term for a small dish or snack served with alcoholic drinks, similar to おつまみ or さかな in standard Japanese.
In Osaka, it's common to order a snack with your drink at an izakaya.
Suffix used in compound nouns to indicate a protective pad or guard, e.g., 肩当て (shoulder pad), 膝当て (knee pad).
I wear knee pads when playing volleyball.
noun, used as a suffix, noun, used as a prefix
Suffix or prefix used in words related to hitting or striking, e.g., 当て身 (striking vital points), 当て投げ (a throw in judo).
In judo, striking techniques are prohibited in competition.
addressed to; care of
Only when written 宛 / 宛て
Suffix attached to a name or address to indicate the recipient, like 'c/o' or 'addressed to'. Written as 宛 or 宛て.
This letter is addressed to Mr. Tanaka.
Suffix meaning 'per' or 'for each', usually written in kana. Also written as 充て. Example: 一人あて (per person).
It costs 1,000 yen per person.
Usage patterns
- 当てを付けるto make a guess or estimate
I made a guess about who the culprit was.
- 〈人〉宛てに〈物〉を送るto send something addressed to someone
I sent a package addressed to Mr. Tanaka.
- 酒の当てに〈物〉を食べるto eat something as a snack with alcohol
I had edamame as a snack with my drink.