Translation guide
The English phrase 'provide for' has two main meanings: to supply what is needed for someone's care or livelihood, and to make preparations or legal arrangements for a future event. This guide covers natural Japanese expressions for both.
To supply money, food, housing, or other necessities to a person, especially a family member or dependent.
The most direct and common verb for providing for a family or dependents, implying ongoing financial and emotional support.
To include provisions in a law, contract, or plan to deal with a possible future situation.
養う is the everyday word for providing for family. 扶養する is a formal, legal term used in tax forms or official documents when claiming dependents.
扶養家族
dependent (for tax purposes)
提供する means 'to provide (something)' like a service or goods, not 'to provide for (someone)'. Using it for supporting a person sounds unnatural.
He works hard to provide for his family.
A formal term often used in legal or tax contexts for supporting dependents.
彼は年老いた両親を扶養している。
He provides for his elderly parents.
Means 'to take care of' or 'look after' someone, often implying providing for their daily needs.
彼女は弟の面倒を見ている。
She provides for her younger brother.
Literally 'support someone's livelihood', used when emphasizing financial provision.
彼の収入が一家の生活を支えている。
His income provides for the whole family.
Common verb meaning 'to prepare for' or 'make provisions for', often used with に.
将来に備えて貯金する。
I save money to provide for the future.
法律は緊急事態に備えている。
The law provides for emergencies.
Used in formal contexts when a law, rule, or contract stipulates or provides for something.
契約書には解約条件が規定されている。
The contract provides for termination conditions.
Similar to 規定する, meaning 'to stipulate' or 'lay down', often in legal or official documents.
法律は罰則を定めている。
The law provides for penalties.
Means 'to take into account' or 'allow for', used when a plan provides for a possibility.
計画では遅延を考慮に入れている。
The plan provides for delays.