合

JLPT N3

Fit, join

Readings

On’yomi: ゴウ , ガッ , カッ , (gō, ga’ , ka’ ,)

Kun’yomi: あ.う, あ・わす, あ・わせる (a(u), a(wasu), a(waseru))

• あ・う (au) – to fit, to match • あ・わす (awasu) – to match something • あ・わせる (awaseru) – to combine, to put together

Structure

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Composition: Purchase the course for full access of this content.

Detailed Explanation

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Mnemonic

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Etymology

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Visual Tip

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Vocabulary

合う

あう

fit

合格

ごうかく

pass

場合

ばあい

case

試合

しあい

match

合計

ごうけい

total

Example Sentences

服が合います。

ふくがあいます。

The clothes fit.

試験に合格しました。

しけんにごうかくしました。

I passed the exam.

その場合です。

そのばあいです。

That is the case.

試合を見ます。

しあいをみます。

I watch a match.

合計を出します。

ごうけいをだします。

I calculate the total.

Cultural Note

In Japanese culture, “合う” symbolizes harmony and cooperation (和 – わ).
• When people say “気が合う” (きがあう), it means “we get along well,” implying emotional harmony.
• The word “都合” (つごう) reflects the importance of timing and situational fit — very valued in Japanese communication.
• In martial arts or music, “合わせる” means to synchronize movements or rhythm, reflecting group coordination and discipline.