Translation and Meaning of: 擦れる - sureru

The Japanese word 擦れる [すれる] is a verb that carries interesting meanings and everyday applications in the language. If you are studying Japanese or simply curious about unique expressions, understanding how and when to use 擦れる can enrich your vocabulary. In this article, we will explore its meaning, origin, and practical uses, as well as tips for memorizing it effectively. Suki Nihongo, the best online Japanese dictionary, provides reliable information to assist you on this journey.

擦れる is not just an isolated word – it reflects nuances of the Japanese language and culture. Whether describing an object that wears out or a person who becomes more experienced, this verb appears in various contexts. Let's uncover its details so that you can apply it correctly in conversations or studies.

Meaning and uses of 擦れる

The verb 擦れる has two main meanings. The first is related to physical friction, such as when something rubs or wears down due to continuous use. For example, a door that squeaks because its hinges are worn can be described with 擦れる. The second meaning is more abstract, indicating that someone has gained life experience, often in a difficult manner, becoming more "worn out" emotionally or socially.

In everyday life, it's common to hear 擦れる in situations involving objects or interpersonal relationships. A person who has gone through many difficulties and has become more resilient can be described as 擦れた人. This double meaning makes the word versatile and useful in different contexts, from informal conversations to more elaborate descriptions.

Origin and writing of kanji

The kanji 擦 is composed of the radical 扌(てへん), which is associated with actions performed with the hands, combined with 察 (to investigate). This combination suggests the idea of rubbing or wearing something down through repeated contact. The reading すれる is one of the kun'yomi forms of the character, often used in verbal contexts in modern Japanese.

It is worth noting that 擦れる can also be written simply in hiragana (すれる) in less formal texts. However, knowing the kanji helps to better understand its meaning and recognize it in different reading materials. This writing reinforces the connection between physical action and its effects, whether on objects or personal development.

Tips for memorizing and using 擦れる

An effective way to fixate 擦れる is to associate it with concrete situations. Think of an old pair of shoes – the sole is worn out because it 擦れた (rubbed) against the ground repeatedly. Similarly, a person who has faced challenges and become more resilient has also "worn out" in a figurative sense. This duality makes memorization easier.

Another tip is to practice with short sentences that use the verb in both senses. For example: このジーンズは長く履いていたので擦れてきた (These jeans got worn out because I wore them for a long time). The context helps to internalize the meaning naturally, without memorizing random vocabulary lists.

Vocabulary

Expand your vocabulary with related words:

Verb conjugation of 擦れる

• 擦れる - Dictionary form 辞書形
• 擦れた - Past form 過去形
• 擦れるだろう - Conditional/suggestive form 仮定形
• 擦れます - Polite form 丁寧形

Synonyms and similar words

• すれる (sureru) - Wear, friction; it can indicate a slight contact that causes scraping.
• 摩れる (mareru) - Wearing down, rubbing; it implies a more constant and intense friction.
• 擦る (suru) - To scrub, to scrape; generally refers to a more deliberate act of friction.
• こする (kosuru) - To scrub, to smooth; it emphasizes the repeated movement of contact to clean or soften.

擦れる

Romaji: sureru
Kana: すれる
Type: verb
L: -

Translation / Meaning: to scrub; get annoyed; wear; sophisticated

Meaning in English: to rub;to chafe;to wear;to become sophisticated

Definition: Scratches and wear occur when objects rub against other objects.

Example Sentences - (擦れる) sureru

See below some example sentences:

服が擦れる音が聞こえる。

Fuku ga sureru oto ga kikoeru

I hear the sound of clothing rustling.

You can hear the sound of clothes rubbing together.

• 服 (fuku) - clothes
• が (ga) - subject particle
• 擦れる (sureru) - rub
• 音 (oto) - sound
• が (ga) - subject particle
• 聞こえる (kikoeru) - be heard, be noticeable