Translation and Meaning of: 聞こえる - kikoeru

The Japanese word 聞こえる [きこえる] is an essential verb for anyone learning the language, especially for describing everyday situations related to hearing. In this article, we will explore its meaning, common uses, and how it differs from other similar . Additionally, we will look at how this word appears in cultural contexts and tips for memorizing it efficiently.

Meaning and usage of 聞こえる

聞こえる is a Japanese verb that means "to be heard" or "to be able to hear." Unlike 聞く (to listen actively), 聞こえる describes the ive perception of a sound. For example, if someone says "音楽が聞こえる" (おんがくがきこえる), it means "the music is being heard" or "I can hear the music."

This verb is frequently used in situations where sound reaches the ears naturally, without effort. It can also indicate auditory clarity, as in "声がよく聞こえない" (こえがよくきこえない – "the voice is not being heard clearly"). This nuance is important to avoid confusion with verbs like 聴く (to listen attentively).

Difference between 聞こえる and other hearing verbs

A common question among students is the difference between 聞こえる, 聞く, and 聴く. While 聞く means "to listen" actively (like when you pay attention to a conversation), 聞こえる refers to sounds that are naturally perceived. On the other hand, 聴く is used to listen to something with concentration, such as music or lectures.

Another interesting aspect is that 聞こえる does not require a direct object particle (を), often being used with が. For example: "鳥の声が聞こえる" (とりのこえがきこえる – "the voices of the birds can be heard"). This grammatical structure helps to reinforce its ive nature.

Trivia and tips for memorization

An effective way to the meaning of 聞こえる is to associate it with the idea of "sound that reaches you." The kanji 聞 (to listen) combined with the suffix こえる (indicating possibility) reinforces this sense. Moreover, the pronunciation "kikoeru" can be linked to the expression "those who listen, echo," making memorization easier.

In Japanese culture, 聞こえる is often used in natural contexts, such as describing the sound of the wind or rain. In animes and dramas, it is common to hear phrases like "足音が聞こえる" (あしおとがきこえる – "footsteps can be heard"), creating suspense or setting the atmosphere. This recurring use helps to reinforce the word in the vocabulary.

Vocabulary

Expand your vocabulary with related words:

Synonyms and similar words

• 聴こえる (kikoeru) - To hear, to be able to hear
• 聞ける (kikeru) - Being able to hear (usually used in contexts of permission or possibility)
• 聴ける (kikeru) - Being able to listen (implying more attention or appreciation)
• 聞くことができる (kiku koto ga dekiru) - To be able to hear or listen (more formal way)
• 聴くことができる (kiku koto ga dekiru) - To be able to listen (more formal form, with emphasis on attention)
• 聞き取れる (kiki to reru) - Being able to understand what is heard
• 聴き取れる (kiki to reru) - Being able to understand what is heard (with an emphasis on attention)
• 聞き分ける (kiki wakeru) - Distinguish sounds or voices
• 聴き分ける (kiki wakeru) - Distinguishing music or sounds (with an emphasis on appreciation)
• 聞こえがする (kikoega suru) - It seems that it is possible to hear.
• 聴こえがする (kikoega suru) - It seems that it is possible to listen (with an emphasis on appreciation)
• 聞こえるようになる (kikoeru you ni naru) - Become capable of listening
• 聴こえるようになる (kikoeru you ni naru) - Becoming capable of listening (with an emphasis on appreciation)
• 聞こえるようになった (kikoeru you ni natta) - Became able to hear
• 聴こえるようになった (kikoeru you ni natta) - It became capable of listening (with an emphasis on appreciation)