てあげる: doing something for someone

When to use it

In 私は弟に漢字を教えてあげました, I taught and my younger brother benefited. The expression presents the action as a favour. Do not add it automatically to every action. A direct offer to a senior may sound more appropriate with 〜ましょうか.

Form

Person acting は + beneficiary に + verb て form + あげる

Check the examples

私は弟に本を読んであげました。 — I read a book to my younger brother.

友達の荷物を持ってあげました。 — I carried my friend’s luggage for them.

妹に料理を作ってあげます。 — I will cook for my younger sister.

Watch out

The subject of てもらう receives help instead. Changing “my friend helped me” to 私は友達に手伝ってあげた reverses the roles.

Try it yourself

These 10 questions practise forms and meaning in context. Check the requested style and how much to enter. Read the explanation after a mistake, then try again with the answer hidden at your next review.