Learning how to express emotions in different languages is essential to broaden cultural understanding and enhance communication. When it comes to crying, the Japanese language offers several ways to convey this emotion. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore formal and informal ways of saying “crying” in Japanese, provide regional variations if necessary, and offer numerous tips and examples to ensure you grasp the subtleties of expressing this powerful emotion in Japanese.
Table of Contents
Formal Ways to Say Crying
Formal speech is typically used in respectful and formal situations, such as when addressing a superior, speaking to someone older than you, or in professional settings. Here are some formal expressions commonly used to say “crying” in Japanese:
泣く (Naku)
This is the most basic term for “crying” in Japanese. It covers a broad range of crying, from shedding a few tears to full-blown sobbing. It can be used in both formal and informal contexts. For example:– 彼女は悲しみに泣いた。(Kanojo wa kanashimi ni naita.)
She cried out of sadness. (Formal)– 試験に失敗して泣いた。(Shiken ni shippai shite naita.)
I cried because I failed the exam. (Formal)
涙を流す (Namida o nagasu)
This expression specifically refers to “shedding tears” or “tearful crying.” It emphasizes the act of tears flowing from the eyes. It can be used in both formal and informal contexts. For example:
– 彼女は映画の感動シーンで涙を流した。(Kanojo wa eiga no kandou shiin de namida o nagashita.)
She shed tears during a touching scene in the movie. (Formal)
– 涙を流しながら感謝の気持ちを伝えた。(Namida o nagashi nagara kansha no kimochi o tsutaeta.)
I expressed my gratitude while shedding tears. (Formal)
Informal Ways to Say Crying
Informal speech is commonly used among friends, family members, or peers in casual situations. Here are some informal expressions to describe “crying” in Japanese:
泣く (Naku)
As mentioned earlier, “泣く (Naku)” is the most basic term for “crying” in Japanese. It can be used informally as well. For example:
– 彼は昼ドラで号泣したよ。(Kare wa hirudora de gounaku shita yo.)
He bawled his eyes out while watching the daytime soap opera. (Informal)
– 映画の終わりに涙を流していた。(Eiga no owari ni namida o nagashite ita.)
I was tearful at the end of the movie. (Informal)
ウルウルする (Urururu suru)
This is an onomatopoeic expression in Japanese that mimics the sound of sobbing. It is often used in informal situations to express crying or tearing up. Examples include:
– 私が彼女のお母さんの死を話したら彼女はウルウルしていた。(Watashi ga kanojo no okasan no shi o hanashitara kanojo wa urururu shite ita.)
She teared up when I told her about her mother’s death. (Informal)
– 寂しいときに、彼はウルウルすることがよくある。(Sabishii toki ni, kare wa urururu suru koto ga yoku aru.)
He often tears up when he is feeling lonely. (Informal)
Regional Variations
Japanese is spoken across several regions, and there might be slight variations in how “crying” is expressed. However, the examples provided above are understood throughout Japan, regardless of regional differences. Focus on learning these common expressions, as they will ensure effective communication with native Japanese speakers.
Conclusion
Mastering different ways to express “crying” in Japanese allows you to accurately convey your emotions and connect with others. By understanding both formal and informal terms, you can adapt your speech to various social contexts. Remember to practice these expressions and engage in conversations with native Japanese speakers to further refine your language skills. Whether you choose to use formal expressions like “泣く (Naku)” or informal expressions like “ウルウルする (Urururu suru),” use them appropriately to effectively communicate your feelings.
