1.
to add to, to accompany, to attach, to garnish
To place something alongside the main item as a supplement, accompaniment, or decoration. Used for adding a side dish to a meal, attaching a note to a gift, or placing a garnish on a plate.
手紙に写真を添えた。
I enclosed a photo with the letter.
料理にパセリを添えて出した。
I served the dish garnished with parsley.
プレゼントに一言メッセージを添えると喜ばれる。
Adding a short message to a gift is appreciated.
USAGE:
Implies adding something supplementary rather than something essential. The added item complements or enhances the main item. Often used in contexts involving food presentation, gift-giving, and written communication.
Distinct from 加える, which means to add in a more general sense. 添える specifically suggests placing something alongside as an accompaniment.
COMMON COLLOCATIONS:
- 手を添える: to lend a hand, to place one's hand on
- 言葉を添える: to add a few words
- 花を添える: to add flowers (as decoration); to add color to an event
- サラダを添える: to serve with a salad