Meaning

Primary

To Hold Something

Alternatives

To Carry Something, To Own Something, To Keep Something

Word Type

godan verb

Explanation

This word consists of kanji with hiragana attached. Because the hiragana ends with an sound, you know this word is a verb.

The kanji itself means hold and the verb version is to hold something, to carry something, to own something, or to keep something.

This is a transitive verb, meaning it takes a direct object. You hold something, like chopsticks, have something, like power, or keep something, like your friend's book over the weekend.

Reading

もつ
  • Kyoko
    (Tokyo accent, female)
  • Kenichi
    (Tokyo accent, male)

Explanation

If you try to hold something in your hand long enough it will mold (). And then that mold will cover your hand, then your arm, then your entire body. Basically, you should never hold anything for too long or you'll become a mold person.

Context

Patterns of Use

Common Word Combinations

  • 手に持つ

    to hold in one's hand

    両手に持つ

    to hold in both hands

    右手に持つ

    to hold in one's right hand

Context Sentences

三十才になるまでに自分の車を持つと決めたんです。

I decided to have my own car before I turned thirty.

あの男、左手に何を持ってるんですか?

What is that man holding in his left hand?

夏に出かけるときは、水とタオルを必ず持っていきましょう。

When you go out in the summer, be sure to carry water and a towel.

Kanji Composition