Translation and Meaning of: 生える - haeru

The Japanese word 生える[はえる] may seem simple at first glance, but it carries interesting nuances for those learning the language. Its main meaning is related to the growth of plants or hair, but there are less obvious uses that are worth exploring. In this article, we will uncover everything from its origin to everyday situations where this verb appears, as well as tips for memorizing it effectively.

If you've ever wondered how the Japanese describe something sprouting naturally or even expressions related to nature, understanding 生える is essential. Here at Suki Nihongo, we have gathered accurate information so that you not only decipher the term but also use it confidently in conversations or texts.

Meaning and usage of 生える

The verb 生える primarily describes the act of something growing organically, such as plants, grass, or even hair. Unlike other terms that indicate growth, it emphasizes the natural emergence without human intervention. For example, upon seeing moss on a stone or weeds in the garden, a Japanese person would use 生える to express this phenomenon.

In more informal contexts, the word can take on unexpected connotations. Some young people use it to describe things that "appear" suddenly, like pimples or even forgotten items in unusual places. This flexibility demonstrates how Japanese adapts everyday terms for various situations, always maintaining a connection to the idea of spontaneous emergence.

Origin and writing of kanji

The kanji 生, present in 生える, is one of the most fundamental in the Japanese language. With origins in the representation of a plant sprouting from the earth, it carries meanings such as "life," "birth," and "raw" – all linked to the idea of something in its natural state. When combined with the verbal suffix える, it forms the specific concept of organic growth.

Curiously, this same kanji appears in words like 生まれる (to be born) and 生きる (to live), showing how Japanese writing connects seemingly distinct ideas. To memorize 生える, it is useful to visually associate it with the plant radical (艹) present in the character, always remembering its link to uncontrolled natural processes.

Practical tips for correct use

A common mistake among students is to confuse 生える with verbs like 育てる (to cultivate) or 伸びる (to grow in the sense of elongating). The key lies in intentionality: while 育てる implies human care, 生える always refers to independent processes. A tree that 生えた grew on its own, unlike one that was 育てた by someone.

To practice, try to observe everyday situations where things appear or grow without help. Leaves falling and new ones sprouting, beard growing after days without shaving – all are perfect scenarios to use 生える. Write down simple sentences like "雑草が庭に生えた" (weeds grew in the garden) to reinforce the verb in real contexts.

Vocabulary

Expand your vocabulary with related words:

Verb conjugation of 生える

• 生えました - past
• 生えません - negative
• 生えましょう - imperative
• 生えない - negative
• 生えています - Present Continuous

Synonyms and similar words

• 生やす (hayasu) - Make it grow; stimulate growth.
• 育つ (sodatsu) - Grow; develop naturally after birth.
• 発芽する (hatsuga suru) - Germinate; to start the growth of a plant from a seed.
• 萌える (moeru) - Brota; refers to the emergence of buds or a feeling of passion or interest.
• 萌芽する (mōga suru) - Germinate; similar to 発芽する, but can refer to a broader initial stage of growth.

生える

Romaji: haeru
Kana: はえる
Type: verb
L: jlpt-n2

Translation / Meaning: to grow; to emerge; cut (teeth)

Meaning in English: to grow;to spring up;to cut (teeth)

Definition: Plants grow stems and leaves from the ground.

Example Sentences - (生える) haeru

See below some example sentences:

木が生える。

Ki ga haeru

Trees are growing.

Trees grow.

• 木 - Means "tree" in Japanese.
• が - It is a subject particle in Japanese, indicating that "tree" is the subject of the sentence.
• 生える - It is a verb in Japanese that means "grow" or "sprout".

葦は池の周りに生えています。

Ashi wa ike no mawari ni haete imasu

Reeds grow around the lake.

Reeds are growing around the pond.

• 葦 (ashi) - means "cane" or "reed" in Japanese
• は (wa) - topic particle indicating that the subject of the sentence is "ashi"
• 池 (ike) - means "lake" in Japanese
• の (no) - possession particle indicating that the lake is the object of the sentence
• 周り (mawari) - means "around" in Japanese
• に (ni) - location particle indicating where "ashi" is growing
• 生えています (haeteimasu) - verb meaning "to be growing" or "to be sprouting"