Translation and Meaning of: 粘る - nebaru

The Japanese word 粘る[ねばる] is a verb that carries interesting meanings and everyday applications in Japan. If you are learning Japanese or are simply curious about the language, understanding how this word is used can enrich your vocabulary and even your perception of Japanese culture. In this article, we will explore its meaning, origin, translation, and how it appears in different contexts.

Additionally, we will see how 粘る is perceived by native speakers, its frequency in everyday life, and some tips for memorizing it efficiently. If you have encountered this word in animes, dramas, or conversations, you will discover here why it is so useful and versatile.

Meaning and translation of 粘る

粘る [ねばる] can be translated as "to be sticky," "to persist," or "to insist," depending on the context. In the literal sense, it describes something with a viscous texture, such as a sticky food or a substance that does not easily come apart. For example, when talking about mochi or natto, two ingredients known for their elastic consistency, 粘る is the right word to describe them.

In a figurative sense, it expresses perseverance, stubbornness, or resilience. A student who doesn't give up on solving a difficult problem or an athlete who continues fighting until the last minute can be described with 粘る. This duality between the physical and the abstract makes it a quite expressive term in the Japanese language.

Origin and components of kanji

The kanji 粘 is composed of the radical 米 (kome), which means "rice," and the component 占 (sen), which is related to adhesion. This combination is not accidental: historically, rice-based foods like mochi were associated with a sticky texture. The idea of something that "sticks" or "persists" has gradually extended to other uses over time.

It is worth noting that, although the kanji itself is not one of the most complex, its kun'yomi reading (ねばる) is more common in everyday life than the on'yomi (ネン). This means that when talking to Japanese people, you will likely hear the hiragana version more often, especially in informal situations.

Cultural usage and frequency in Japan

In Japan, the idea of persistence is highly valued, and 粘る reflects this cultural aspect well. Employers praise employees who "don't give up easily," and teachers encourage students to study "粘り強く" (nebarizuyoku, with perseverance). This word often appears in motivational speeches, whether in the academic, sports, or professional environment.

Additionally, 粘る is used in culinary contexts to describe dishes that have a characteristic texture. If you have ever tried an oyakodon with a very creamy egg or a dish with a thick sauce, it is possible that a Japanese person used this word to describe it. This versatility makes it a valuable addition to the vocabulary of any Japanese language student.

Tips for memorizing 粘る

An effective way to remember 粘る is to associate it with concrete situations. Think of something sticky, like chewing gum or a piece of mochi, and mentally repeat "nebáru" while imagining the texture. This type of visual and sensory association helps to engrain the word more lasting.

Another strategy is to use it in simple everyday sentences, such as "このお餅はよく粘るね" (kono omochi wa yoku nebaru ne – "This mochi is pretty sticky, isn’t it?"). The more you practice in real contexts, the more natural the memorization process will be. Suki Nihongo, one of the best online Japanese dictionaries, offers practical examples that can help in this process.

Vocabulary

Expand your vocabulary with related words:

Verb conjugation of 粘る

• 粘る: Dictionary form
• 粘らない: Negative
• 粘ります: Formal gift
• 粘っている: present continuous
• 粘った: Past
• 粘れる: Potential
• 粘れ: Imperative

Synonyms and similar words

• ねばる (nebaru) - persist, resist
• くっつく (kuttuku) - stick, adhere
• くっつきやすい (kuttukiyasui) - that sticks easily
• こびりつく (kobiritsuku) - stick strongly, adhere
• こびりつきやすい (kobiritsukiyasui) - that sticks strongly, easily adhering
• しつこい (shitsukoi) - persistent, that clings
• ねばねばする (nebaneba suru) - be sticky, viscous (in texture)
• ねばりけがある (nebarike ga aru) - to have tenacity, stickiness
• ねばりやすい (nebaruyasui) - that is easy to become sticky
• ねばり強い (nebaritsuyoi) - very Tenacious, strong in adhesion
• ねばり性のある (nebarisei no aru) - that has sticky characteristics
• ねばり性の強い (nebarisei no tsuyoi) - with high stickiness

粘る

Romaji: nebaru
Kana: ねばる
Type: verb
L: jlpt-n1

Translation / Meaning: be sticky; be adhesive; persevere; persist

Meaning in English: to be sticky;to be adhesive;to persevere;to persist;to stick to

Definition: Have an arrogant and stubborn attitude.