JLPT N4
てあげる
Do ~ for someone (giving)
Structure
Verb て-form あげる
How it works
This expression is used when the speaker (or someone in the speaker's circle) does something for another person as a favor. It carries a sense of 'bestowing a benefit,' so it should be used carefully with superiors or strangers to avoid sounding condescending. The person receiving the action is usually marked by the particle 'ni'.
Examples
私は妹に数学を教えてあげました。
I taught my younger sister math (as a favor).
友達の荷物を持ってあげました。
I carried my friend's luggage for them.
誕生日に美味しい料理を作ってあげるよ。
I'll cook a delicious meal for you on your birthday.
Common mistakes
Avoid using 'te ageru' directly to a teacher or boss (superiors), as it implies you are doing them a favor 'from above'; instead, use 'te sashiageru' or humble forms.
Tip
Think of 'te ageru' as an arrow pointing away from you. You are giving the action to someone else.
More JLPT N4 grammar
See てあげる in real Japanese
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