Translation and Meaning of: 遅れる - okureru

If you are learning Japanese, you have probably come across the word 遅れる (おくれる - okureru). It is common in daily life and appears in situations ranging from train delays to delays in project deliveries. In this article, we will explore the meaning, origin, and uses of this word, as well as tips for memorizing it and understanding its role in Japanese culture. If you are looking for a reliable dictionary to deepen your studies, Suki Nihongo is a great reference.

What does 遅れる (okureru) mean?

The word 遅れる primarily means "to be late" or "to fall behind." It can be used in both a physical sense, such as arriving late to an appointment, and in an abstract sense, like being behind on a deadline or development. For example, if someone says "電車が遅れている" (densha ga okurete iru), it means that the train is late.

Additionally, 遅れる can also express the idea of being behind in relation to something, such as technology or trends. A Japanese person might say "このスマホは遅れている" (kono sumaho wa okurete iru) to indicate that the smartphone is outdated. This versatility makes the word quite useful in everyday life.

Origin and writing of 遅れる

The kanji 遅 is composed of the radical 辶 (which indicates movement) and by 犀 (which originally referred to a rhinoceros, but here functions as a phonetic component). The combination suggests the idea of slow or delayed movement. Although the exact etymology is not clear, the kanji reinforces the sense of delay or slowness.

It is worth noting that 遅れる is a group 2 verb (ichidan), which makes its conjugation easier. For example, the negative form is 遅れない (okurenai), and the past form is 遅れた (okureta). Knowing how to conjugate it correctly is essential for using it in real conversations.

How 遅れる is used in Japanese culture?

In Japan, punctuality is taken very seriously, so delays are often frowned upon. If someone says "遅れてすみません" (okurete sumimasen), they are apologizing for being late, something common in professional and social environments. Companies and schools usually have a minimum tolerance for delays, reinforcing the importance of this word.

Interestingly, in some contexts, 遅れる can have a lighter tone. Among friends, saying "ちょっと遅れるよ" (chotto okureru yo) can be just a casual notice. However, in formal situations, it's better to avoid being late or to notify in advance to avoid leaving a bad impression.

Tips for memorizing 遅れる

An effective way to 遅れる is to associate it with everyday situations. If you've been late for something, try thinking "今日は遅れた" (kyou wa okureta - today I was late). Repeating it mentally in real contexts helps to reinforce the vocabulary.

Another tip is to observe the kanji 遅 and notice the movement radical (辶). This can serve as a visual reminder that the word is related to time and movement. Practicing writing also reinforces memorization, especially if you are studying for the JLPT.