Japanese word

衰える

Pronunciation

Romajiotoroeru

Meaning

  • verbdecline

Example

年を取ると、体力が衰えます。toshi o to ru to tai ryoku ga otoro e ma su

As people get older, their physical strength declines.

Illustration for 衰える (decline)

More examples

長く使うと、機械の性能が衰えます。naga ku tsuka u to ki kai no sei nō ga otoro e ma su

The machine's performance declines with prolonged use.

Core concept

Expresses a gradual movement from a stronger, more active, or more effective state toward a weaker one.

Common phrases

  • 体力が衰えるtai ryoku ga otoro e ru

    physical strength declines

  • 視力が衰えるshi ryoku ga otoro e ru

    eyesight declines

  • 集中力が衰えるshū chū ryoku ga otoro e ru

    concentration declines

Similar words

弱るyowaru: To lose physical strength or become less able to function.
低下するteikasuru: To become lower in level, quality, ability, or performance.
衰退するsuitaisuru: To gradually lose power, activity, or importance.
減退するgentaisuru: To gradually lose physical strength or vitality.

Definition in Japanese

体力や機能、勢いなどが、以前よりも次第に弱くなる。tai ryoku ya ki nō ikio i na do ga i zen yo ri mo shi dai ni yowa ku na ru

Word origin

The Japanese verb 衰える (otoroeru, "to decline") continues the older native verb 衰ふ (otorofu, "to decline") in a modern form, carrying forward its meaning of diminishing strength.

Usage tips

  • Decline often suggests a slow change rather than a sudden failure, which is why it commonly describes health, ability, and the fortunes of an organization.

Other meanings

  • weakenverb
  • decayverb
  • witherverb

Opposites

Related words

  • 衰えotoroedeclinenoun

Word lists with this word