Translation and Meaning of: 怯える - obieru

The Japanese word 怯える (おびえる) is a verb that carries a deep and emotional meaning, often used to describe a state of intense fear or apprehension. If you are studying Japanese or simply interested in the language, understanding the usage and nuance of this expression can enrich your vocabulary. In this article, we will explore the meaning, origin, and cultural context of 怯える, as well as practical memorization tips and examples of how it appears in daily life.

Meaning and Translation of 怯える

怯える (おびえる) is translated as "to be afraid", "to be scared", or "to feel threatened". Unlike other terms such as 怖がる (こわがる), which indicates a more general fear, 怯える suggests a sharper sense of fear, often related to an imminent threat or persistent anxiety. This word is often used in contexts where there is a feeling of vulnerability or insecurity.

A common example is when someone feels intimidated by a hostile environment or by a situation that seems out of control. The word can also appear in literary narratives or dramatic dialogues, reinforcing the emotional tension of a scene.

Origin and Composition of Kanji

The kanji 怯 is composed of the radical 忄 (a simplified version of 心, which means "heart" or "mind") and the component 去 (which can indicate "leave" or "depart"). Together, they convey the idea of a heart that shrinks back in the face of danger. This construction reflects the emotional meaning of the word well, as it is associated with an internal reaction of fear.

It is worth noting that 怯える is not an extremely common term in everyday life, appearing more in formal or artistic contexts. However, its use is important for those who wish to express specific nuances of fear and anxiety in Japanese.

Cultural Usages and Practical Phrases

In Japan, the expression 怯える can be found in literary works, mangas, and dramas, especially in scenes that involve suspense or emotional conflict. It is not a word used casually, but rather in situations where fear is more intense and palpable.

For those learning Japanese, a good way to memorize 怯える is to associate it with situations of high tension. For example, in a horror movie, a character might say: 彼は暗闇におびえていた (Kare wa kurayami ni obiete ita) – "He was afraid of the darkness." Phrases like this help to reinforce vocabulary in a contextualized manner.

Vocabulary

Expand your vocabulary with related words:

Verb conjugation of 怯える

• 怯える Dictionary Form
• 怯えます Formal
• 怯えよう Potential
• 怯えた Past
• 怯えさせる Causative
• 怯えられる Passive

Synonyms and similar words

• おびえる (obiaeru) - Feel fear, be terrified.
• こわがる (kowagaru) - Fear, to be scared.
• ひるむ (hirumu) - To hesitate in the face of something frightening.
• おじけづく (ojikeduku) - Feeling intimidated, being afraid or hesitating.
• おじる (ojiru) - Feeling insecure or hesitating in front of something.
• おののく (ononoku) - Tremor caused by fear, being in panic.
• ふるえる (furueru) - Tremor, generally associated with cold or fear.
• すくむ (sukumu) - To freeze or remain immobile due to fear.
• ひるむ (hirumu) - To falter or hesitate (the same meaning as the third word, but in a different context).
• おっかながる (okanagaru) - To be very cautious or to be susceptible to terrors and fears.
• おっかぶる (okkaburu) - Adopt a fearful or timid attitude.
• おっくうがる (okkūgaru) - To be reluctant or emotionally exhausted in the face of challenges.
• おっくうじる (okkūjiru) - Feeling overwhelmed or terrified by a task.
• おっしゃべりになる (osshaberi ni naru) - Become talkative, especially in nervous situations.
• おっちょこちょいになる (occhokochoi ni naru) - Becoming clumsy or making mistakes due to nervousness.
• おっちょこ (occhoko) - Disastrous, someone who makes mistakes easily.

怯える

Romaji: obieru
Kana: おびえる
Type: verb
L: jlpt-n1

Translation / Meaning: get scared; have a nightmare

Meaning in English: to become frightened;to have a nightmare

Definition: Trembling with fear.