を抱く

to hold; to harbor; to entertain (a feeling or thought)

→ を

phrase Common #6,338

to hold; to harbor; to entertain (a feeling or thought) 抱く can refer to physically holding someone or something, harboring a feeling or thought, or brooding eggs. The pattern ～を抱く commonly means “to harbor” or “to have” an emotion, concern, or doubt. The form を抱く is the dictionary form; it is often conjugated in ordinary sentences.

JA: 私はその説明に疑問を抱く。

EN: I have doubts about that explanation.

疑問を抱くこともせずそれは大尉、あなたのような種類の人間にしかできない

Without ever questioning it, it’s something only people like you, Captain, are capable of.

— パンズ・ラビリンス (2006)

不満を抱く部下も多かった。

Many subordinates were dissatisfied as well.

君が罪悪感を抱く必要はないよ。

You don't need to feel guilty.

心理学者の中にはペパーバーグの研究に疑念を抱く人がいる。

Some psychologists have doubts about Pepperberg’s research.

（子を抱く女性）行ってらっしゃい！

See you when you get back!

— すずめの戸締まり (2022)

子供のころは大きな夢を抱くが―実現しないそうだな

When you're a child, you have big dreams—but apparently, they don't come true.

— TAXi (1998)