Translation and Meaning of: 見上げる - miageru

The Japanese word 「見上げる」 (miageru) is composed of two kanji: 「見」 and 「上げる」. Etymologically, the kanji 「見」 (mi) means "to see" or "to look", while 「上げる」 (ageru) translates as "to lift" or "to raise". Together, they form the verb meaning "to look up" or "to gaze". This composition reflects the action of directing the gaze towards an object or phenomenon situated at a higher position.

The origin of this word is strongly associated with everyday and natural actions in Japan, such as outdoor environments where the horizons are wide and often nature encourages people to 'look up'. In the past, this could include looking at trees, mountains, or the sky, highlighting an intrinsic connection to the natural world. Traditional Japanese culture has a close relationship with nature, a fact that is reflected in many of its linguistic expressions, such as 「見上げる」.

The word 「見上げる」 can also have metaphorical meanings, such as to respect or ire a person of higher position or stature, taking the sense of "looking up" to a more abstract level. In the modern context, it is a phrase frequently used in Japanese literature and poetry to describe the act of looking at celestial bodies or contemplating something inspiring, capturing moments of reflection or silent iration. It is also used in more emotional contexts when a person expresses their iration for another, thereby elevating the feeling of reverence.

Vocabulary

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Verb conjugation of 見上げる

• 見上げます - Polite form present
• 見上げました - Past polite form
• 見上げません - Polite negative form
• 見上げませんでした - Polite negative past form
• 見上げる Neutral form present
• 見上げた Neutral past form
• 見上げない Neutral negative form
• 見上げなかった Neutral negative past form

Synonyms and similar words

• 仰ぐ (Aogu) - Look up; respect
• 上を見る (Ue wo miru) - Look up
• 空を見上げる (Sora wo miageru) - Look at the sky