Translation and Meaning of: 成る - naru

The Japanese word 成る[なる] is an essential verb for those learning the language. Its main meaning is "to become" or "to come to be," but its nuances go far beyond that. In this article, we will explore the everyday use of this expression, its origin, and how it fits into Japanese culture. If you have ever wondered how the Japanese talk about transformations or changes, understanding 成る[なる] is a great starting point.

In addition to being frequently used in everyday conversations, this verb appears in various contexts, from formal situations to popular expressions. Here at Suki Nihongo, our Japanese dictionary, you will find practical examples to memorize this word efficiently. Let's uncover everything from its writing in kanji to tips on how not to confuse it with other similar terms.

Meaning and usage of 成る [なる]

The verb 成る[なる] carries the idea of transformation, indicating that something or someone is undergoing a change. It can be used to describe both concrete situations, such as "becoming an adult" (大人になる), and abstract changes, like "to get hot" (暑くなる). Its versatility makes it one of the most useful words in the Japanese vocabulary.

An interesting characteristic is that 成る[なる] often appears accompanied by adjectives in the く form (like 寒く → 寒くなる, "to become cold"). This pattern helps to quickly identify its usage in sentences. Furthermore, unlike some verbs that indicate direct action, it conveys a natural process, something that happens without forced intervention.

Origin and writing of the kanji 成る

The kanji 成 is composed of the radical 戈 (weapon) and the component 丁, which suggests the idea of completion or achievement. Historically, this character was connected to the concept of "completing" or "achieving a result." Over time, its meaning has evolved to encompass broader notions of transformation, while still maintaining the essence of a process that concludes.

It is worth noting that 成る can also be written only in hiragana (なる) depending on the context, especially in informal texts or when the emphasis is not on the kanji. However, knowing its original writing helps to better understand compound expressions, such as 成功 (せいこう, success) or 成長 (せいちょう, growth), which share the same root.

Tips for memorizing and using 成る [なる]

An effective way to memorize this word is to associate it with everyday situations. For example, think of phrases like "winter is coming, and it's going to get cold" (冬が来て、寒くなる). This type of construction is common in dialogues and helps to internalize the verb naturally. Another tip is to observe its use in animes or dramas, where it often appears in transitional scenes or character development.

Moreover, practicing with real examples makes all the difference. Try creating simple sentences in your study notebook or apps like Anki, always varying the contexts. Over time, you will notice that 成る[なる] is not just a verb, but a linguistic tool that reflects the way Japanese people perceive changes and evolutions in the world around them.

Vocabulary

Expand your vocabulary with related words:

Synonyms and similar words

• なる (naru) - to become, to transform
• なす (nasu) - to carry out, to do (usually used in contexts of action or task)
• なり (nari) - to become, or the verbal form that indicates transformation or state
• なれる (nareru) - becoming, getting used to, accustomed to

成る

Romaji: naru
Kana: なる
Type: noun
L: jlpt-n3, jlpt-n5

Translation / Meaning: become

Meaning in English: to become

Definition: to be in a state of something.

Example Sentences - (成る) naru

See below some example sentences:

明日は成るべく早く来てください。

Ashita wa narubeku hayaku kite kudasai

Please come as early as possible tomorrow

If possible, please come as early as you can tomorrow

• 明日 (あした, ashita) - tomorrow
• なるべく (narubeku) - as soon as possible, if you can
• 早く (はやく, hayaku) - early, quickly
• 来てください (きてください, kite kudasai) - please come

何事も成る程度に。

Nanigoto mo naru teido ni

Everything happens in its own time.

As everything happens.

• 何事も - means "everything" or "anything".
• 成る - means "to become" or "to happen".
• 程度に - means "to a certain extent" or "to a certain degree".

成る丈は人それぞれです。

Naru take wa hito sorezore desu

The length is individual.

• 成る丈 (narujou) - means "height that is reached" or "success that is achieved" and is a Japanese expression that refers to personal fulfillment.
• は (wa) - Japanese grammatical particle that indicates the topic of the sentence.
• 人 (hito) - means "person" in Japanese.
• それぞれ (sorezore) - means "each" or "individually" in Japanese.
• です (desu) - It is a polite way to say "is" in Japanese.