抱え
Meanings
1
armful; something carried in one's arms
Refers to the amount or bundle that can be held in one's arms, or the act of carrying something in one's arms. Often used in phrases like 抱えきれない (too much to hold).
He brought an armful of firewood.
2
employee; person under one's care
Used for someone who is employed or supported by a person or organization, often in a dependent or subordinate role. Common in compounds like 抱え主 (employer) or 抱えの運転手 (private chauffeur).
He is the company president's private chauffeur.
Usage patterns
- 〈数〉抱えN armfuls (of firewood, hay, etc.)
I carried three armfuls of firewood.
- 抱えの〈人〉one's privately kept/employed (chauffeur, lawyer, etc.)
He is the company's private chauffeur.