GrammarN32 min read2026-02-17

〜 あう

Express reciprocal or mutual actions between two or more parties

Meaning

The ~あう pattern indicates that two or more people perform an action toward each other or together. It is formed by adding あう to the masu stem of a verb. This grammar expresses reciprocal relationships such as mutual help, communication, or agreement between parties.

Formation

Part of speechFormation
动词ます形あう

Examples

  1. 夫婦はお互いに理解し合い、助け合うべきだ。
    Married couples should understand and help each other.

  2. 私は高校の友達と卒業してからもずっと連絡し合っています。
    Since graduating from high school, I have been in constant contact with my friends.

  3. わが社はアメリカの会社と話し合い、3年間のパートナー契約を結びました。
    After negotiations with an American company, our company concluded a three-year partnership agreement.

Summary

  • Form: verb masu stem + あう
  • Expresses mutual or reciprocal actions between people
  • Common in contexts of cooperation, communication, and shared understanding

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