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持つ
motsu
What does "持つ" mean in English?
hold彼は鞄を持っています。
He is holding a bag.
How to use "持つ" correctly: definitions and examples in English?
general
To have or possess something physically or abstractly.
彼女は本を持っています。
She has a book.
彼は責任を持っています。
He bears responsibility.
Can imply physical possession (e.g., 持つ物) or abstract qualities (e.g., 信頼を持つ).
general
To carry or support something.
重い荷物を持ってください。
Please carry this heavy luggage.
Often used with physical objects.
general
To have a particular feeling or opinion.
彼は彼女に対して疑いを持っています。
He has doubts about her.
Common with emotions or attitudes (e.g., 期待を持つ, 疑いを持つ).
Related Phrases
Pro Tip
Common mistakes with 持つ
Avoid using 持つ for abstract concepts like 'time' or 'money' in formal contexts. For example, 'I have time' is 時間があります (jikan ga arimasu), not 時間を持ちます. 持つ is more about physical possession or abstract qualities like emotions.
Gold Rule
When to use 持つ vs. ある
持つ implies active possession or carrying, while ある (aru) is for existence. Compare: 本を持っています (I am holding a book) vs. 本があります (I have a book).
Word Origin
From Old Japanese *mot- (to hold, possess), related to Proto-Japonic *mətə- (to hold). Cognate with Korean 가지다 (gajida, to have) and possibly with Mongolian барих (barix, to hold).
Usage Notes
持つ is a transitive verb and often used with を (object marker). It can describe both physical possession and abstract concepts like emotions or responsibilities. In formal contexts, 所有する (shoyū suru) may be preferred for ownership.
Word Breakdown
持
to hold, possess
rootつ
verb suffix (transitive action)
suffix和英辞典