乞う

こう
Alternative writings: 請う
JLPT:N2
Frequency:
1

To beg or request earnestly; often used in written or formal contexts (e.g., 'to solicit support', 'to beg forgiveness').

U-VerbTransitive Verb

Examples

皆様のご支援を乞う次第です。

We hereby solicit everyone's support.

被災地支援のため、寄付を乞う声明が出された。

A statement was issued asking for donations to support the disaster-stricken area.

彼は許しを乞うために頭を下げた。

He bowed his head to beg for forgiveness.

新しい製品について『乞うご期待』という表現が使われる。

The expression 'Please look forward to it' (乞うご期待) is used about a new product.

2

To pray or wish for something; to implore the gods or fate for a desired outcome.

U-VerbTransitive Verb

Examples

戦地の無事を乞う祈りが捧げられた。

Prayers for the safety of those at the front were offered.

成功を乞う気持ちで最後のテストに臨んだ。

I approached the final test with a wish for success.

Word Relationships

Synonyms
Derivations
Masu-Form乞います
Nai-Form乞わない
Ta-Form乞った
Te-Form乞って
Ba-Form乞えば
Volitional Form乞おう
Imperative Form乞え
Potential Form乞える
Passive Form乞われる
Causative Form乞わせる
Causative Passive Form乞わせられる