The grammar pattern ～てあげます is used when you (the speaker) do something for someone else as a favor. It implies kindness, but because it emphasizes that you are doing a favor, it can sound patronizing if used towards superiors or strangers.
If you want to offer help politely to a superior, it is better to use ～ていただきます or simply humble forms.
"I" is the subject. The person receiving the favor involves the particle "ni".
Verb Conjugation
| Masu-form | Te-form + agemasu | Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| 貸(か)します | 貸してあげます | lend (for someone) |
| 教(おし)えます | 教えてあげます | teach (for someone) |
| 手伝(てつだ)います | 手伝ってあげます | help (for someone) |
私 は 友達 に 本を 貸してあげました。
わたしは ともだちに、 ほんを かしてあげました。
I lent a book to my friend (as a favor).
(私が) あなた の 荷物を 持ってあげましょうか。
にもつを もってあげましょうか。
Shall I carry your luggage for you?
Summary of Giving & Receiving
| Expression | Direction of Action | Nuance |
|---|---|---|
| ～てあげます | Me → Others | Doing a favor (Use with friends/juniors) |
| ～てくれます | Others → Me | Someone did it for me (Gratitude) |
| ～ていただきます | Others → Me | Receiving a favor (Humble/Very Polite) |
"～てあげます" can imply "I am doing this *for you*", which might sound arrogant ("doing you a favor"). Avoid using it directly to superiors. Instead, use offers like "～ましょうか" (Shall I...?).
⚡ Practice Quiz
Check your understanding of「～てあげます」!