How to say 'Request' or 'Wish' in Japanese | 願う

Wondering how to say 'Request' or 'Wish' in Japanese? You're in the right place!

The Japanese word for Request or Wish is 'Negau', written as 願う in Japanese.'Request' or 'Wish' in hiragana is ねがう.

word

願う

Meaning

Request, Wish

Reading

ねがう

negau

Kanji

願Request, Wish

Explanation

The Japanese verb '願う (ねがう)' has two primary meanings: 'to wish' and 'to request'. When used to mean 'to wish', it expresses a desire or hope for something, often in a formal or earnest manner. For example: I wish for your happiness「あなたの幸せを願います」(あなたのしあわせをねがいます). When used to mean 'to request', it implies asking for something politely or formally, often in a written or official context. For example: I request your understanding「ご理解を願います」(ごりかいをねがいます). The verb is commonly used in formal settings, such as letters, speeches, or prayers, and carries a tone of sincerity and respect.

Part Of Speech

verb

Kanji JLPT

Kanji Grade

Frequency

374

Composition

kanji-hiragana

Handwriting

This word is a godan verb. To learn how it transforms in different tenses and forms, explore all its conjugations.

Kanji in the Word 願う

This word contains 1 kanji character:

kanji

願

Meaning

Request, Wish

Hiragana in the Word 願う

This word contains 1 Hiragana character :

hiragana

う

Reading

Words Related to 願う Through the Kanji 願

These 5 Words contain the Kanji 願 as well.

word

お願い

Meaning

Request

word

願い

Meaning

Wish

word

願書

Meaning

Application

word

本願

Meaning

Vow

word

願望

Meaning

Desire

Learn the Word 願う

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What does 'Negau' (願う) mean?

'Negau' means 'Request' or 'Wish' .

To help you master this word, here's an interactive lesson where you'll practice its readings and meanings.