JLPT · Level 149
15 words
Japanese word
揺らぐ
Pronunciation
Romajiyuragu
Meaning
- verbwaver
Example
批判を聞いて、決意が揺らぎます。hi han o ki i te ketsu i ga yu ra gi ma su
My resolve wavers when I hear criticism.
More examples
家族の励ましを聞いても、彼の考えは揺らぎません。ka zoku no hage ma shi o ki i te mo kare no kanga e wa yu ra gi ma se n
Even after hearing his family's encouragement, his opinion does not waver.
Core concept
The verb describes something moving back and forth or losing stability, whether it is an object, a feeling, or a decision.
Common phrases
決意が揺らぐketsu i ga yu ra gu
one's resolve wavers
基盤が揺らぐki ban ga yu ra gu
one's foundation is shaken
地位が揺らぐchi i ga yu ra gu
one's position becomes unstable
Similar words
揺れるyureru: To move from side to side or lose emotional or mental steadiness.
ぐらつくguratsuku: To become physically unstable or lose confidence in a decision or position.
ぶれるbureru: To shift away from a steady position, policy, or point of view.
動揺するdōyōsuru: To lose emotional calm because of an unexpected event or threat.
Definition in Japanese
決意や考えなどが、迷いや外からの影響を受けて不確かな状態になる。ketsu i ya kanga e na do ga mayo i ya soto ka ra no ei kyō o u ke te fu tashi ka na jō tai ni na ru
Word origin
The native verb 揺らぐ (yuragu) is formed from 揺る (yuru, "to shake") and the verb-forming ending ぐ (gu), giving the basic sense of becoming unsteady.
Usage tips
- In formal Japanese, this verb often describes the weakening of trust, authority, or a social foundation rather than only the motion of an object.