What is the difference between "おくる" and "贈る"?

"おくる" means "to send, to see off" (N5), whereas "贈る" represents "to give (as a gift), to send (a gift), to present" (N4).

Kanji Homophone Battle

Pronunciation Trap: "おくる (okuru)"

Same sound, completely different Kanji! Choose the right conceptual writing.

Kanji Option A

おくる (okuru)

N5 / CEFR

Kanji Option B

おくる (okuru)

N4 / CEFR

In Japanese, many words share the exact same pronunciation "おくる (okuru)" but are written with different Kanji, changing the meaning entirely.

おくる (Level: N5): Translates to "to send, to see off" and is used when Can mean 'to send.
贈る (Level: N4): Maps to "to give (as a gift), to send (a gift), to present" and carries the nuance of Specifically refers to giving gifts, presents, or awards, often with a sense of formality or commemoration. Distinct from just handing something over.

Mixing these up can easily result in unnatural writing. Look at the bilingual context cards below to master the conceptual boundaries!

Bilingual Context for "おくる"

友達に手紙を送りました。

I sent a letter to my friend.

Bilingual Context for "贈る"

友人の誕生日に本を贈った。

I gave a book to my friend for their birthday.

Which Kanji perfectly fits this blank space?

Which Kanji perfectly fits the blank: "友達に手紙を送りました。" (Meaning: "I sent a letter to my friend.")

🎉 Correct Answer!

Correct! "おくる" is used for "to send, to see off" in the context: "I sent a letter to my friend.".