Translation and Meaning of: 起こる - okoru

The Japanese word 起こる [おこる] is an essential verb for those learning the language, especially due to its frequent use in daily life. Its main meaning is "to happen" or "to occur," but it can also carry specific nuances depending on the context. In this article, we will explore everything from the basics, such as its translation and writing, to deeper aspects, such as its origin and cultural usage. If you are looking to understand how this word works in practice, you have come to the right place.

In addition to being a common term in everyday conversations, 起こる appears in various study materials, including sentences for Anki and examples in animes. Here at Suki Nihongo, our goal is to simplify Japanese, so we will address everything clearly and directly. If you've ever wondered how to memorize this word or why it is used so often, keep reading to find out.

Meaning and translation of 起こる

The verb 起こる is often translated as "to happen" or "to occur." It describes events that arise unexpectedly or naturally, such as an accident, a natural phenomenon, or even a sudden change. For example, if someone says "地震が起こった" (じしんがおこった), it means "an earthquake happened." The word carries the idea of something that emerges or manifests, often without prior notice.

It is worth noting that 起こる is not used for planned or intentional actions. If you want to say that you organized a party, for example, you would use another verb like 開く (ひらく). This distinction is important to avoid confusion. Moreover, in some contexts, 起こる may have a more formal tone, being replaced by 発生する (はっせいする) in technical or journalistic situations.

Origin and writing of kanji

The kanji for 起こる is 起, which by itself carries the meaning of "to rise" or "to wake up." This character is composed of the radical 走 (to run) at the bottom, suggesting movement, and the component 己 (oneself) at the top. Together, they reinforce the idea of something arising or starting. The combination with the hiragana こる forms the verb we know today.

Interestingly, 起 is one of the oldest kanji in the Japanese language, with records dating back to ancient China. Its presence in words like 起きる (おきる - to get up) and 起源 (きげん - origin) demonstrates how it is connected to concepts of beginning and emergence. This etymological connection helps to understand why 起こる is used for events that "emerge" in time and space.

Everyday use and memorization tips

In daily life, the Japanese use 起こる to talk about situations that are out of control, such as problems, natural phenomena, or even social changes. A useful tip to memorize this word is to associate it with unexpected events. For example, think of phrases like "何かが起こる前に" (before something happens) or "問題が起こった" (a problem occurred). This practice helps to fix the verb in real contexts.

Another strategy is to observe its use in animes and dramas, where 起こる frequently appears in dialogues about conflicts or twists. Series like "Attack on Titan" or "Death Note" have scenes where characters discuss unforeseen events, using this word. By hearing it in dramatic situations, it becomes easier to remember its meaning and application.

Vocabulary

Expand your vocabulary with related words:

Verb conjugation of 起こる

起こる - Dictionary form 辞書形- kuru
起きます - Polished Form 丁寧形- okimasu
起きました - Polished Past Form 丁寧形過去 - okimashita
起きなさい - Imperative 命令形- okinasai
起これる - Potential 可能形- okoreru

Synonyms and similar words

発生する (Hassei suru) - Generate, occur, emerge
生じる (Shoujiru) - Surge, emerge; often used in more formal or technical contexts.
起きる (Okiru) - To rise, to occur; often used for events or actions that arise or happen naturally.
起る (Okoru) - Occurs; used in a manner similar to "起きる", but it can be considered more formal or literary.