Translation and Meaning of: 語る - kataru

If you are studying Japanese or are curious about the language, you have likely come across the word 語る[かたる]. It appears in conversations, texts, and even in songs, but its meaning goes beyond a simple translation. In this article, we will explore what this word represents, how it is used in everyday Japanese, and some tips for memorizing it effectively. Here at Suki Nihongo, our goal is to provide clear and practical explanations for those who want to master the language.

The meaning and use of 語る

The word 語る[かたる] is a verb that means "to tell," "to narrate," or "to speak about something." Unlike simpler verbs like 話す (to speak), it carries a more elaborate tone, often related to stories, experiences, or deeper discourses. For example, a writer can 語る about their travels, or an elder can 語る about the old days.

In daily life, Japanese people do not use 語る as frequently as other speaking verbs. It appears more in formal, literary contexts or when someone is sharing something in great detail. If you are telling a quick joke, for example, it would be more natural to use 話す. But if you are describing an important memory, 語る fits better.

The origin and writing of 語る

The kanji 語 is composed of two elements: 言 (which means "speech" or "word") and 吾 (an ancient pronoun for "I"). Together, they reinforce the idea of someone expressing their own words, which perfectly aligns with the sense of narrating something personal. This kanji also appears in other words such as 言語 (language) and 物語 (story, tale).

It's worth remembering that 語る is not an irregular verb, so its conjugation follows the pattern of godan verbs. For example, in the past form, it becomes 語った, and in the negative form, 語らない. This makes it easier to memorize, as you can apply the same rules of other verbs ending in る.

Tips for memorizing and using 語る

An effective way to remember 語る is to associate it with specific situations. Think of moments when someone is telling a long story, like a grandparent reminiscing about the past or a teacher explaining a historical event. This mental image helps to distinguish it from more generic verbs like 言う (to say) or 話す (to talk).

Another tip is to consume content where the word appears naturally. Period dramas, documentaries, and even some animes with more elaborate narratives often use 語る frequently. Hearing the word in context makes it easier to absorb its real meaning, as well as helps with pronunciation.

Vocabulary

Expand your vocabulary with related words:

Verb conjugation of 語る

語る - basic form
語ります - polite form
語って - imperative form
語りました - past form

Synonyms and similar words

語り伝える (katari tsutaeru) - Transmit a story/account.
語り継ぐ (katari tsugu) - Continue telling a story, pass it on.
語り聞かせる (katari kikaseru) - Tell someone, narrate so that they can hear.
語りかける (katari kakeru) - Speak to someone personally, address someone in conversation.
語り合う (katari au) - Talk, exchange stories or accounts between two or more people.
語り掛ける (katari kakeru) - Talking to someone in an engaging way, starting the conversation with a story.
語り続ける (katari tsuzukeru) - Continue to tell, proceed with the narration.
語り伝わる (katari tsutawaru) - To be conveyed through storytelling, to be passed on in the form of stories.