Quadruple VS
Synonym Boundary: "もつ", "持つ", "押さえる", "抱く"
All represent the core concept "hold", but require precise selection.
Japanese Option A
もつ
もつ (motsu)
N5 / CEFR
Japanese Option B
持つ
もつ (motsu)
N4 / CEFR
Japanese Option C
押さえる
おさえる (osaeru)
N3 / CEFR
Japanese Option D
抱く
だく (daku)
N3 / CEFR
Quadruple VS Nuance Contrast & Social Differences
When expressing "hold" in Japanese, you must carefully distinguish between "もつ", "持つ", "押さえる", "抱く" based on context.
- もつ (もつ (motsu) - Level: N5): Maps to "to hold, to carry" and is used when Transitive verb. Refers to physically holding something in one's hand, or possessing an item. Can also mean 'to last'.
- 持つ (もつ (motsu) - Level: N4): Maps to "to hold, to have" and is used when Can mean 'to hold' an object in hand or 'to possess/have' something.
- 押さえる (おさえる (osaeru) - Level: N3): Maps to "to hold down, to restrain, to keep under control, to check" and is used when 動きを止めたり、位置を固定したり、感情を抑えたりする場合に使う。Used when stopping movement, fixing a position, or suppressing emotions..
- 抱く (だく (daku) - Level: N3): Maps to "to hold, to embrace, to hug" and is used when Often used for physically holding someone or something close, like a child or a pet. Can also mean to have feelings/thoughts.
Context for "もつ"
カバンを持ちます。
I carry a bag.
Context for "持つ"
傘を持っていますか？
Do you have an umbrella?
Context for "押さえる"
風で飛ばされないように帽子を両手で押さえた。
I held down my hat with both hands so it wouldn't be blown away by the wind.
Context for "抱く"
子供を優しく抱いた。
He gently held the child.
Synonym Mastery Challenge
Which Japanese word perfectly fits this blank space?
Fill in the blank: "カバンを持ちます。" (Meaning: "I carry a bag.")
🎉 Correct Answer!
Remember: "もつ" is correct here because it represents "to hold, to carry" in the context: "I carry a bag.".