Translation and Meaning of: 恐れる - osoreru

Have you ever come across the Japanese word 恐れる (おそれる) and felt curious about its meaning or use? This expression carries interesting nuances that go beyond a simple translation. In this article, we will explore what makes this verb unique, from its writing in kanji to the emotional context it conveys. If you study Japanese or have an interest in Japanese culture, understanding 恐れる can enrich your vocabulary and perception of the language.

Suki Nihongo, the best online Japanese dictionary, provides valuable details about terms like this. Here, you will discover not only the translation of 恐れる but also its origin, frequency in everyday Japanese, and even tips for memorizing it. Let's unveil layers that range from literary use to everyday situations.

The meaning and the kanjis of 恐れる

The verb 恐れる (おそれる) is composed of two kanji: 恐 (fear, dread) and れる (a suffix that indicates potential or passive). Together, they convey the idea of "to fear," "to dread," or "to apprehend." Unlike words like 怖い (こわい), which express a more immediate fear, 恐れる carries a more reflective, almost solemn tone.

The kanji 恐 appears in other terms related to fear, such as 恐怖 (きょうふ, "terror") and 恐竜 (きょうりゅう, "dinosaur"). This common root helps to understand why 恐れる is often used in contexts of prolonged worry or reverential respect. It is not just a fleeting scare, but a deeper emotion.

How and when do the Japanese use 恐れる?

In Japan, 恐れる is not a verb that is heard every day. It appears more frequently in formal texts, news, or serious discussions. For example, journalists might use it to talk about economic crises: "専門家は不況が長引くことを恐れている" ("Experts fear that the recession will prolong").

Culturally, there are situations where 恐れる reflects the Japanese relationship with authorities or natural phenomena. When a typhoon approaches, expressions like 災害を恐れる ("to fear a disaster") are common. This usage shows how the term is linked to real threats, not to personal phobias. The word would rarely be used for irrational or trivial fears.

Tips for memorizing and using 恐れる correctly

An effective way to remember 恐れる is to associate it with high-impact situations. Think of events that generate collective apprehension: climate change, political crises, or public health risks. This verb fits better in these scenarios than in everyday fears like cockroaches or heights.

Another strategy is to observe the kanji 恐. Its upper radical (㔾) represents "hands together," while the lower part (心) means "heart." This combination suggests a reverence that goes beyond simple fear - something that Japanese etymological dictionaries confirm. When you visualize this kanji, remember that 恐れる involves both respect and concern.

Vocabulary

Expand your vocabulary with related words:

Synonyms and similar words

• 怖がる (kowagaru) - To be afraid; to be scared.
• 恐がる (osoragaru) - To be afraid; often used in contexts of deeper or supernatural fear.
• 怯える (obieru) - To feel apprehensive or anxious; a fear that causes trembling or restlessness.
• おじけづく (ojikeduku) - To give up or back down out of fear; hesitation caused by fear.
• こわがる (kowagaru) - To feel scared; similar to 怖がる, but it can have more precise nuances in specific situations.

恐れる

Romaji: osoreru
Kana: おそれる
Type: noun
L: jlpt-n3

Translation / Meaning: to fear; to be afraid of

Meaning in English: to fear;to be afraid of

Definition: The feeling of being worried or afraid of something.

Example Sentences - (恐れる) osoreru

See below some example sentences:

恐れることは何もない。

Osoreru koto wa nanimo nai

There is nothing to fear.

There is no fear.

• 恐れる (osoreru) - verb meaning "to fear"
• こと (koto) - noun that means "thing"
• は (wa) - Particle indicating the topic of the sentence
• 何も (nanimo) - adverb meaning "nothing"
• ない (nai) - suffix indicating negation

直面することは恐れる必要はありません。

Chokumen suru koto wa osoreru hitsuyō wa arimasen

You don't have to be afraid to face it.

• 直面する - face
• こと - thing
• は - Topic particle
• 恐れる - fear
• 必要 - necessary
• は - Topic particle
• ありません - negation of "being"

恐れ入ります。

Osore irimasu

Excuse me for my impertinence.

Thank's for your time.

• 恐れ入ります (onore irimasu) - Japanese expression used to apologize or express gratitude in a formal way