待
JLPT N4
Wait
Readings
On’yomi: タイ (tai)
Kun’yomi: ま(つ) (ma(tsu))
• ま.つ (matsu) – to wait, to await, to depend on
Structure
Composition:
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Detailed Explanation
Vocabulary
待つ
まつ
to wait
待合室
まちあいしつ
waiting room
期待
きたい
expectation
招待
しょうたい
invitation
待機
たいき
standby
Example Sentences
駅で待ちます。
えき で まちます。
I wait at the station.
返事を期待します。
へんじ を きたい します。
I expect a reply.
Cultural Note
⏳ 待 reflects the Japanese cultural value of patience and consideration of time.
• Historically, people often had to wait at temples (寺) or stations for events, messages, or duties, highlighting structured timing in social life.
• Words like 期待 (expectation) and 待望 (long-awaited) show positive anticipation, a cultural nuance in Japanese communication.
• In daily life, 待つ is common, but politeness is emphasized; for example, people often wait patiently in queues, reflecting societal norms of respect and order.
• Historically, people often had to wait at temples (寺) or stations for events, messages, or duties, highlighting structured timing in social life.
• Words like 期待 (expectation) and 待望 (long-awaited) show positive anticipation, a cultural nuance in Japanese communication.
• In daily life, 待つ is common, but politeness is emphasized; for example, people often wait patiently in queues, reflecting societal norms of respect and order.