How to say "beg" in Japanese
Choosing the right word
- 頼むたのむgodan verb, transitive verbCovers the everyday sense of asking or begging someone for a favor or request. It is the natural choice when you ask someone to do something, as in politely requesting help.
- godan verb, transitive verbCovers begging in the sense of pestering someone, especially a child wheedling or coaxing a parent for a treat or toy. The nuance is persistent, slightly pushy demanding rather than a polite request.
- 乞うこうgodan verb (irregular), transitive verbMeans to beg or ask for something, but it is a formal, literary word. It is seldom the word you want for everyday begging; it really suits written or elevated expressions of asking for mercy, help, or opportunity.
- godan verb, transitive verbCovers begging in the sense of badgering someone repeatedly for something they want. Close to ねだる, it suggests nagging or pestering rather than a one-time polite request.
- 願うねがうgodan verb, transitive verbCovers begging in the sense of imploring, requesting earnestly, or praying for something. It carries an earnest, hopeful nuance, fitting wishes, prayers, and heartfelt pleas rather than casual asking.彼は私の許しを願った。↗He asked my pardon.
For asking a favor use 「頼む」; for a child pestering for things use 「ねだる」 or 「せがむ」; 「願う」 leans toward pleading or praying; 「乞う」 is a formal literary choice rarely the everyday word.
Usage comparisons are AI-assisted and cross-checked by multiple models; for study reference only
Japanese equivalents
See also
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