Translation and Meaning of: 懲りる - koriru

The Japanese word 懲りる [こりる] carries a deep meaning and is frequently used in everyday situations. If you have ever wondered what it means, how to use it correctly, or even how to memorize it, this article will help you. Here, we will explore its meaning, origin, and cultural context, as well as practical tips for those studying Japanese.

懲りる is a verb that expresses the idea of learning from a negative experience, often associated with not repeating a mistake. Its use is common in Japan, both in informal conversations and in more serious situations. In Suki Nihongo, you can find real examples of how this word appears in the daily lives of the Japanese.

Meaning and use of 懲りる

懲りる can be translated as "to learn a lesson" or "to be discouraged after a bad experience." It is used when someone goes through something unpleasant and decides not to repeat the same action. For example, if a person tries to cook and burns the food, they might say "もう懲りた" (mou korita), meaning "I’ve already learned my lesson."

This verb is often used in contexts where there is regret or frustration. Unlike simply giving up, 懲りる implies a reflection on what went wrong. It is a word that carries a more serious and introspective tone, showing how Japanese culture values learning from experiences.

Origin and writing of kanji

The kanji 懲 (chou) in 懲りる has ancient roots and is associated with the idea of punishment or discipline. It is composed of the radical 心 (heart) and 徴 (sign), suggesting an internal change after a reprimand. This combination reflects the meaning of the word well, as it involves a transformation of behavior after a negative experience.

It is worth noting that 懲りる is written in hiragana (こりる) more often than in kanji in everyday life. This happens because writing in kanji can be considered formal or even difficult for some speakers. Nevertheless, knowing the ideogram helps to better understand the meaning behind the word.

Cultural context and memorization tips

In Japan, 懲りる is a word that reflects values such as perseverance and self-control. It appears in situations where the individual needs to acknowledge their mistakes and avoid repeating them. This concept is in line with the Japanese mindset of continuous improvement, present in practices such as kaizen.

To memorize 懲りる, one tip is to associate it with real situations where you learned something the hard way. Another strategy is to create sentences like "あの経験で懲りた" (ano keiken de korita – "I learned my lesson from that experience"). Practicing with authentic examples, like those available on Suki Nihongo, also facilitates learning.

Vocabulary

Expand your vocabulary with related words:

Verb conjugation of 懲りる

懲りる - base form
懲ります - Polished form
懲れる - passive form
懲れよう - potential form
懲った - Past form

Synonyms and similar words

諦める (akirameru) - to give up
悔やむ (kayamu) - Regretting something that happened
反省する (hansei suru) - Reflecting on past actions, self-criticism
自戒する (jikai suru) - Self-awareness, self-examination of behaviors
悔い改める (kui aratameru) - True regret, changing after regret
懺悔する (zange suru) - Confessing sins or mistakes, repentance
悔恨する (kaihon suru) - To feel a deep pain for what one has done, bitter regret.
悔いる (kairu) - Regretting decisions made
悔し涙を流す (kuyashinami da wo nagasu) - Cry out of regret
悔いを残す (kui wo nokosu) - Let regret, remorse linger
後悔する (koukai suru) - To regret, to have remorse about past actions
悔しい思いをする (kuyashii omoi wo suru) - Feeling frustrated or regretful about something
悔いを知る (kui wo shiru) - To be aware of one's own regret