Nihongo Master Nihongo Master
Pricing Dictionary Blog

Meaning of 追う(おう) in Japanese

Japanese word definition and usage

追う, 逐う
JLPT 3
Kana Reading
おう
Romaji
ō
Word Senses
  • Parts of speech
    Godan verb with `u` ending, transitive verb
    Meaning
    to chase; to run after; to pursue
  • Parts of speech
    Meaning
    to follow (i.e. a set order, a trend)
  • Parts of speech
    Meaning
    to drive out; to oust; to expel
  • Parts of speech
    Meaning
    to drive (i.e. a herd)
  • Parts of speech
    Meaning
    (in passive voice) to be pressed (for time, etc.)

Example Sentences

追う, 逐う, おう used in context

Verb Conjugations

Common conjugated forms

Non-Past

Plain
追う
Plain Polite
追います
Negative
追わない
Negative Polite
追いません

Past

Plain
追った
Plain Polite
追いました
Negative
追わなかった
Negative Polite
追いませんでした

Te

Plain
追って
Plain Polite
追いまして
Negative
--
Negative Polite
--

Passive

Plain
追われる
Plain Polite
追われます
Negative
追われない
Negative Polite
追われません

Related Kanji

Kanji found in this word

JLPT 1

pursue, drive away, chase, accomplish, attain, commit

On: チク

10 strokes

Learn more
JLPT 3

chase, drive away, follow, pursue, meanwhile

On: ツイ

Kun: お.う

9 strokes

Learn more

Go beyond looking it up

Turn every word you look up into a word you actually know

You found the word. Now make it stick. Nihongo Master connects the dictionary directly to your personal study system so one click is all it takes.

  • Save to personal study lists
  • Drill with spaced repetition until it sticks
  • Print handwriting practice sheets
  • Test yourself with skill quizzes
  • Track progress across every word you study
Start Free 7-Day Trial

No credit card required. Cancel anytime.

Earn with Nihongo Master

Love Japanese? Share it and get paid.

Join the Nihongo Master affiliate program. Share your link and earn 30% on every payment your referrals make, for as long as they stay subscribed.

  • 30% lifetime recurring commission
  • 60-day referral cookie
  • No approval needed — start right away
  • Monthly payouts via PayPal
Learn More About the Program