“To take” in Japanese is 取る (とる), pronounced toru.
Pronunciation
The word has 2 beats (morae), each about the same length. Tap a syllable to hear it, or play the whole word:
How to use it
To take or pick up. Taking a photo is 写真を撮る, the same sound with a different kanji.
Example sentences
- 塩を取ってください。しおをとってください。Please pass the salt.
- 写真を撮ってもいいですか。しゃしんをとってもいいですか。May I take a photo?
Conjugation
The most useful forms of 取る. The rules are explained in Japanese verbs: the ます form.
| Form | Japanese | Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| Dictionary (plain) | 取る とる | take |
| Polite present | 取ります とります | take |
| Polite negative | 取りません とりません | don’t take |
| Polite past | 取りました とりました | past of “take” |
| Plain negative (ない) | 取らない とらない | don’t take (casual) |
| Plain past (た) | 取った とった | past of “take” (casual) |
| て-form | 取って とって | take and… / please take (+ください) |
| Want to (たい) | 取りたい とりたい | want to take |
Quick practice
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Related words: Everyday verbs
FAQ
How do you say to take in Japanese?
To take in Japanese is 取る (とる), pronounced “toru”.
How do you write to take in Japanese?
It's written 取る with kanji, or とる in hiragana. Both are read toru.
Is 取る on the JLPT?
Yes. 取る (toru) is a common word at JLPT N5 level, so it's worth learning early.