借りる vs 拝借する
Japanese word comparison
Listen to 借りる
Listen to 拝借する
| 借りる | 拝借する |
|---|---|
ka-RI-ru verb (ru-verb, transitive) | はいしゃくする verb (ru-verb, transitive) |
| to borrow; to take and use something temporarily from someone else | to borrow (humble/polite, often when requesting or referring to one's own borrowing) |
How they differ
拝借する is a humble (謙譲語) form used when the speaker politely borrows something or asks permission; it conveys respect toward the lender and humility of the borrower, whereas 借りる is neutral and simply describes the action.
When to use each
When to use 借りる: Prefer 借りる for everyday, neutral statements about borrowing between friends or family.
When to use 拝借する: Use 拝借する in polite speech or writing when you want to show deference to the person you are borrowing from (e.g., business, formal requests).
Side-by-side examples
- 明日、友達に自転車を借りる。
(Tomorrow I'll borrow a bicycle from a friend.) - すみません、その資料を一部拝借してもよろしいでしょうか。
(Excuse me, may I borrow one copy of that document?)
Register & nuance: 拝借する is formal and humble (keigo) and should be used when addressing or referring respectfully to the lender; it is not used in casual speech among close friends.