Translation and Meaning of: 嫌う - kirau

The Japanese word 嫌う[きらう] is a verb that carries interesting nuances both in meaning and in everyday use. If you are studying Japanese or simply interested in the language, understanding how and when to use it can prevent misunderstandings and enrich your vocabulary. In this article, we will explore its meaning, origin, and cultural context, as well as practical tips for memorization.

Meaning and usage of 嫌う

嫌う means "to hate," "to detest," or "to have aversion to something or someone." Unlike words like 憎む (nikumu, "to hate deeply"), 嫌う has a softer tone, which can indicate anything from a simple negative preference to a stronger rejection. For example, saying 彼は騒音を嫌う (kare wa souon o kirau) implies that "he dislikes noise," but not necessarily with intense hatred.

It is worth noting that 嫌う is more common in formal or written contexts. In everyday life, Japanese people often use expressions like 嫌いだ (kirai da) or 苦手 (nigate) to avoid a very direct tone. This subtlety reflects Japanese culture, which often prefers to soften negative statements.

Origin and components of kanji

The kanji 嫌 is composed of 女 (woman) and 兼 (at the same time), suggesting an ancient association with "discrimination" or "selective preference." Despite this possible historical link, today the character does not carry gender connotations. Sources such as Kanjipedia confirm that its current meaning is related to aversion or distaste.

It is interesting to note that 嫌 also appears in other words, such as 嫌悪 (ken'o, "repugnance") and 不機嫌 (fukigen, "bad mood"). This common root helps to identify terms related to negative feelings, which can be useful for Japanese language learners.

Tips for memorizing and using correctly

An effective way to memorize 嫌う is to associate it with concrete situations. For example, think of something you genuinely dislike, such as spicy food or waking up early. Creating sentences like 私は早起きを嫌う (watashi wa hayaoki o kirau, "I hate waking up early") helps to internalize the verb.

Another tip is to observe its use in dramas or animes, where more formal or elderly characters may employ 嫌う in dialogues. Series like "Shouwa Genroku Rakugo Shinjuu" depict this linguistic register well. However, avoid using it in casual conversations with friends, as it would sound artificial.

Vocabulary

Expand your vocabulary with related words:

Verb conjugation of 嫌う

嫌う - dictionary form
嫌わない - negative
嫌っている - continuous
嫌った - past
嫌ってください - imperative

Synonyms and similar words

嫌がる (iyagaru) - Show aversion or reluctance towards something.
忌む (imu) - Avoiding or abhorring something, especially in a context that involves taboos.
嫌悪する (ken'o suru) - To feel repulsion or intense aversion towards something or someone.
嫌気がさす (iyake ga sasu) - To get tired or sick of something you have in excess.
嫌い (kirai) - Not liking something or someone; simple aversion.
嫌な思いをする (iya na omoi o suru) - To have unpleasant experiences or memories.
嫌っている (kiratte iru) - To be in a state of aversion or disgust towards something or someone.
嫌気を感じる (iyake o kanjiru) - To feel aversion or discontent towards something.
嫌悪感を持つ (ken'o kan o motsu) - To have a feeling of aversion or disgust.
嫌悪感を抱く (ken'o kan o daku) - Nurture or develop a feeling of aversion.