抱

JLPT N3

hold, hug

Readings

On’yomi: ホウ (hō)

Kun’yomi: だ(く),
いだ(く) ,
かか(える) (da(ku), ida(ku), kaka(eru))

• だ(く) – to embrace, to hold • いだ(く) – to embrace, to harbor (feelings, hopes, etc.) • かか(える) – to hold in one’s arms, to carry

Structure

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Detailed Explanation

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Mnemonic

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Etymology

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Visual Tip

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Vocabulary

抱く

だく

hold

抱える

かかえる

carry

抱負

ほうふ

ambition

抱擁

ほうよう

embrace

抱っこ

だっこ

carry child

Example Sentences

子供を抱きます。

こどもをだきます。

I hold a child.

仕事を抱えます。

しごとをかかえます。

I carry work.

抱負を語ります。

ほうふをかたります。

I talk about my ambition.

抱擁します。

ほうようします。

I embrace.

赤ちゃんを抱っこします。

あかちゃんをだっこします。

I carry a baby.

Cultural Note

💮 In Japanese culture, 抱く extends beyond physical hugging — it’s also emotional. Expressions like 夢を抱く (to hold a dream) or 不安を抱く (to harbor anxiety) show how this kanji captures deep emotional connection and inner feelings. Physical hugs (抱く) are less common in Japanese culture compared to the West, but emotional warmth through care and understanding is equally valued.