合(あ)う

あう
verb-godan
to fit; to match; to suit
1. to fit; to match; to suit; to agree
For things to correspond, be compatible, or be in agreement. Used for sizes fitting, colors matching, answers being correct, etc.
この靴(くつ)は足(あし)に合(あ)う。
These shoes fit my feet.
答(こた)えが合(あ)っているか確認(かくにん)してください。
Please check if the answer is correct.
この服(ふく)の色(いろ)は私(わたし)の肌(はだ)に合(あ)わない。
The color of this outfit doesn't suit my complexion.
2. to do together (as a suffix)
When attached to the stem of another verb, indicates a mutual or reciprocal action.
友達(ともだち)と助(たす)け合(あ)って生(い)きていく。
To live by helping one another with friends.

合(あ)う means to fit, match, or suit. It is one of the most versatile verbs in Japanese.

TRANSITIVITY:

  • Type: 自動詞(じどうし) (intransitive)
  • Pair: 合(あ)わせる (transitive, to put together / to adjust)
  • Pattern: XがYに合(あ)う

ASPECT (ている):

  • 合(あ)っている means "fits / matches / is correct" (resulting state)

COMMON PATTERNS:

  • サイズ(さいず)が合(あ)う: the size fits
  • 口(くち)に合(あ)う: to suit one's taste (food)
  • 気(き)が合(あ)う: to get along well (with someone)
  • 答(こた)えが合(あ)う: the answer is correct
  • 計算(けいさん)が合(あ)う: the numbers add up

As a suffix (〜合(あ)う), it adds the meaning of doing something mutually:

  • 話(はな)し合(あ)う: to discuss (talk together)
  • 助(たす)け合(あ)う: to help each other
  • 見(み)つめ合(あ)う: to gaze at each other
general
Added 2026.2.7 22:15
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