To be affectionate toward someone; to dote on or cherish (often used for children or pets).
彼女はいつも近所の子どもを可愛がっている。
She is always affectionate toward the neighborhood children.
祖父は孫を本当に可愛がっている。
Grandfather truly dotes on his grandchild.
飼い犬を可愛がるために、毎日散歩に連れて行く。
To show affection for the pet dog, I take it for a walk every day.
To show favoritism; to treat someone preferentially.
上司が特定の部下を可愛がっていると、職場に不満が生まれる。
If a boss favors a particular subordinate, dissatisfaction arises at work.
親が一人の子を可愛がると、兄弟間に差が出ることがある。
When parents favor one child, differences can appear between siblings.
To fondle or caress; to pet (with touching or stroking).
彼女は赤ちゃんの頭を可愛がるように撫でた。
She stroked the baby's head as if to show affection.
猫を可愛がりながら座っていたら、すぐに寝てしまった。
I was petting the cat while sitting, and it soon fell asleep.
Used ironically or colloquially to mean being tough on or rough with someone—tormenting or training harshly.
先輩は『これから可愛がってやるよ』と言って、厳しい練習を始めた。
The senior said, 'I'll take care of you,' and then started harsh training.
コーチは新人を可愛がる方針で、厳しい指導を続けた。
The coach took an approach of 'tough love' with the rookie and continued strict guidance.