〜をくれる

〜をくれる expresses give (to me). The giving and receiving system (あげる/もらう/くれる) is uniquely important in Japanese, reflecting social relationships, hierarchy, and the direction of benefit. Using the correct form shows awareness of these social dynamics.

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

When to Use#

• When someone gives something to you or your in-group
• When describing receiving a gift or item from another person

When NOT to Use#

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

Example Sentences#

• 医者が薬をくれました。 — The doctor gave me medicine.

Practice#

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

Common Mistakes#

1. Direct translation from English — The concept expressed by 〜をくれる 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.

Related Patterns#

• 〜てくれる (do (for me)) — Next step