Translation and Meaning of: 恥じる - hajiru

The Japanese word 恥じる (はじる, hajiru) carries significant cultural weight, often linked to feelings of shame or embarrassment. If you are looking to understand its meaning, origin, or how to use it in everyday life, this article will explore all of that in a clear and practical manner. We will cover everything from the kanji writing to the social context in which this word appears, along with tips for memorization and real usage examples.

Meaning and usage of 恥じる

恥じる is a verb that expresses the feeling of shame, especially when someone feels they have failed to meet social or moral expectations. Unlike more generic terms like 恥ずかしい (hazukashii), which can indicate shyness, 恥じる is more closely related to a deep, almost moral embarrassment.

In Japan, where honor and respect are fundamental values, this word appears in contexts ranging from minor social slips to serious failures. A common example is when someone does not meet expectations at work or in the family, generating a feeling that goes beyond simple temporary shame.

Origin and writing of kanji

The kanji 恥 is composed of the radical 耳 (ear) and 心 (heart), suggesting a connection between hearing (criticism) and feeling (shame). This construction reflects well the Japanese concept of haji (恥), which is deeply rooted in the country's culture. Sources like Kanjipedia confirm this interpretation, showing how the character has evolved to represent complex emotions.

It is worth noting that 恥じる is the verbal form of 恥, while nouns like 恥ずかしさ (hazukashisa) derive from the same root. This family of words is essential for understanding not only the language but also Japanese values such as the fear of "losing face."

Tips for memorizing and using correctly

An effective way to remember 恥じる is to associate it with situations where shame has a moral weight. Think of scenarios like "恥じるべき行為" (an act of shame) or "罪を恥じる" (to be ashamed of a crime). These examples illustrate the seriousness that the word carries.

Interestingly, 恥じる appears less in everyday language than its lighter synonyms, precisely because of its more serious tone. Word frequency studies indicate that it is more common in formal speeches, literature, or when discussing ethical issues. Knowing this helps avoid inappropriate uses in casual conversations.

Vocabulary

Expand your vocabulary with related words:

Verb conjugation of 恥じる

• 恥じます - affirmative tense
• 恥じません - negative gift
• 恥じました - affirmative past
• 恥じませんでした - Negative past
• 恥じよう - Affirmative future
• 恥じましょう - Negative future

Synonyms and similar words

• 恥をかく (haji wo kaku) - To feel embarrassed or to go through an embarrassing situation.
• 恥を感じる (haji wo kanjiru) - To feel shame or embarrassment about something specific.
• 恥じらう (hajirau) - Feeling shy, embarrassed, or hesitant, usually in social situations.

恥じる

Romaji: hajiru
Kana: はじる
Type: verb
L: jlpt-n1

Translation / Meaning: to feel embarrassed

Meaning in English: to feel ashamed

Definition: Feelings of embarrassment regarding one's actions or personality when seen or known by others.

Example Sentences - (恥じる) hajiru

See below some example sentences:

恥じることはない。

Hajiru koto wa nai

There is no shame in embarrassing.

Do not be shy.

• 恥じる - Verb meaning to feel ashamed, embarrassed or humiliated.
• こと - Noun meaning thing, fact or subject.
• は - Particle that indicates the topic of the sentence.
• ない - Suffix indicating negation, i.e. "there is not" or "there is not".