甘える
甘える · ichidan verb
| Form | Positive | Negative |
|---|---|---|
| Dictionary | 甘える | 甘えない |
| Polite | 甘えます | 甘えません |
| Past polite | 甘えました | 甘えませんでした |
| Past | 甘えた | 甘えなかった |
| Te-form | 甘えて | 甘えないで |
| Desire | 甘えたい | 甘えたくない |
| Potential | 甘えられるalso 甘えれる | 甘えられないalso 甘えれない |
| Passive | 甘えられる | 甘えられない |
| Causative | 甘えさせる | 甘えさせない |
| Causative passive | 甘えさせられる | 甘えさせられない |
| Volitional | 甘えよう | |
| Polite volitional | 甘えましょう | |
| Imperative | 甘えろ | 甘えるな |
| Conditional | 甘えれば | 甘えなければ |
| Tara conditional | 甘えたら | 甘えなかったら |
Meanings
ichidan verb, intransitive verb
act spoiled; fawn on; seek affection
Describes acting in a childlike, dependent, or affection-seeking way toward someone close, often to get attention, care, or indulgence. Can be used for children, pets, or adults in close relationships.
The child is clinging affectionately to their mother.
She acted spoiled with him and made selfish demands.
ichidan verb, intransitive verb
take advantage of; presume upon; depend on
Used when someone relies on another's kindness, generosity, or goodwill, often implying they are overstepping or being overly dependent. Common with 好意 (goodwill) or 親切 (kindness).
I took advantage of his kindness and ended up asking too much.
It's not good to presume upon people's goodwill.
Usage patterns
- 〈人〉に甘えるto act affectionately dependent toward someone
The child is being clingy and affectionate with his mother.
- 〈人〉の好意に甘えるto take advantage of someone's kindness
I took advantage of his kindness and had him carry my bags.
- 甘えた声で〈動詞〉to say/ask something in a wheedling, childish tone of voice
My little sister said 'buy it for me' in a wheedling voice.
- 遠慮なく〈人〉に甘えるto accept someone's offer or kindness without hesitation
Since it was such a kind offer, I decided to just accept it without holding back.
Expressions
- 言葉に甘えるaccept a kind offer; take someone up on their offer