〜をください / 〜を手伝う

〜をください / 〜を手伝う is a set expression meaning request and help expressions. This is a fixed pattern or phrase commonly used in Japanese conversation and writing. Understanding set expressions helps you sound more natural and idiomatic.

This is a foundational pattern that you will use from day one of your Japanese studies.

When to Use#

• When asking for help or making a polite request
• When using set phrases for requests in daily life

When NOT to Use#

• In very formal writing where a more sophisticated expression would be expected

Example Sentences#

• 水をください。 — Please give me water.
• 頭が痛いです。 — My head hurts.
• 喉が痛いです。 — My throat hurts.

Practice#

Try reading these sentences aloud, then check the translation and vocabulary:

Common Mistakes#

1. Direct translation from English — The concept expressed by 〜をください / 〜を手伝う may not map one-to-one with its English translation. Focus on understanding the Japanese usage through example sentences rather than relying on the English gloss.