Meaning

Primary

To Grant

Alternative

To Fulfill

Word Type

transitive verb, ichidan verb

Explanation

The kanji means "come true" or grant, and this is the transitive verb version of that, making this to grant or to fulfill.

叶える refers to making something desired come true, either for oneself or someone else. It's usually used in the context of fulfilling wishes, dreams, or goals, but it can also be used for granting someone's request in more formal contexts.

Reading

かなえる
  • Miyuki
    (Tokyo accent, female)
  • Kenichi
    (Tokyo accent, male)

Explanation

This is a verb, so it uses the kun'yomi reading. Luckily, you already learned this with the kanji, so you should be good to go here!

Context

Pattern of Use

Common Word Combinations

  • 夢を叶える

    to fulfill a dream

    願いを叶える

    to fulfill a wish, to grant someone's request

    希望を叶える

    to fulfill a hope, to grant someone's request

    目標を叶える

    to achieve a goal

Context Sentences

ゼッタイにこの夢を叶えるんだ!

I will make this dream come true no matter what!

あなたは、いつまでにその目標を叶えたいですか?

When do you want to achieve that goal by?

全ての希望を叶えることはできないかもしれません。

It may not be possible to fulfill all your wishes.

Kanji Composition