捕らえる in 30 Sekunden
- 捕らえる means to catch, capture, or arrest.
- It can be used literally for people/animals, or figuratively for ideas/emotions.
- Common in news, nature documentaries, and discussions about understanding.
- Be careful not to confuse it with similar verbs like つかむ or 理解する.
- Literal Meaning
- The most common use of 捕らえる is for physically catching or capturing something. This can be in a literal sense, like when the police arrest a suspect, or when a hunter catches an animal. For example, the police worked hard to 捕らえる the thief. The cat managed to 捕らえる a mouse. This sense emphasizes the act of seizing and holding something firmly.
- Figurative Meaning: Understanding Concepts
- Beyond physical capture, 捕らえる is frequently used to describe the mental process of understanding or grasping an idea, a concept, or a theory. When you finally understand a difficult subject, you can say you have 捕らえるd it. For instance, after much study, I finally managed to 捕らえる the complex economic theory. It implies a deep comprehension, not just a superficial knowledge.
- Figurative Meaning: Emotional Grasp
- This verb can also describe the act of being emotionally affected or captivated by something. A beautiful piece of music or a moving story might 捕らえる your heart or your attention. For example, the sad news managed to 捕らえる my emotions. The captivating performance did not fail to 捕らえる the audience's attention. This usage highlights how something can seize your focus or feelings.
- Figurative Meaning: Capturing Attention
- In a similar vein, 捕らえる can refer to capturing someone's attention or interest. A compelling advertisement or an intriguing question might 捕らえる the viewer's or listener's attention. The speaker's passionate delivery was able to 捕らえる everyone in the room. This shows how something can effectively draw and hold someone's focus.
- Legal and Official Contexts
- In news reports and legal discussions, 捕らえる is the standard term for arresting criminals or apprehending suspects. It conveys a sense of official action taken to detain someone. The police announced they had successfully 捕らえるd the suspects involved in the robbery. This formal usage is common in official statements and media coverage.
The detective was determined to 捕らえる the elusive criminal.
She finally managed to 捕らえる the meaning of the complex poem.
The beautiful scenery seemed to 捕らえる his heart.
- Context: Law Enforcement
- Police officers aim to 捕らえる criminals who break the law.
- Context: Nature
- A predator tries to 捕らえる its prey for survival.
- Context: Learning
- Students must 捕らえる new vocabulary to improve their language skills.
- Context: Art and Media
- A captivating film can 捕らえる the audience's attention.
- Context: Emotions
- A touching story might 捕らえる one's feelings.
- Basic Structure
- The fundamental structure when using 捕らえる is: [Subject] は [Object] を 捕らえる. This applies to both literal and figurative meanings. The subject is the one doing the catching, and the object is what is being caught.
- Literal Capture of People
- In official contexts, like news or police reports, 捕らえる is used to describe arrests. For example: 警察は容疑者を 捕らえた。(Keisatsu wa yougisha o toraeta.) - The police captured the suspect. Here, the police (subject) are capturing the suspect (object).
- Literal Capture of Animals
- When talking about animals, it signifies catching them, often for food or research. For instance: 猫がネズミを 捕らえた。(Neko ga nezumi o toraeta.) - The cat caught a mouse. The cat (subject) caught the mouse (object).
- Figurative Capture of Ideas
- When you finally understand something complex, you can use 捕らえる. Example: 彼はその理論の核心を 捕らえようとしている。(Kare wa sono riron no kakushin o toraeyou to shite iru.) - He is trying to grasp the core of that theory. The subject (he) is trying to grasp the core of the theory (object).
- Figurative Capture of Attention
- To describe something that captures people's attention: そのスピーチは聴衆の注意を 捕らえた。(Sono supiichi wa choushu no chuui o toraeta.) - That speech captured the audience's attention. The speech (subject) captured the audience's attention (object).
- Figurative Capture of Emotions
- When something deeply affects your feelings: その悲しい物語は私の心を 捕らえた。(Sono kanashii monogatari wa watashi no kokoro o toraeta.) - That sad story captured my heart. The sad story (subject) captured my heart (object).
- Using Potential and Imperfective Forms
- You can use potential forms like 捕らえられる (can catch) or imperfective forms like 捕らえている (is catching/has caught) to add nuance. For example: 彼は犯人を 捕らえられなかった。(Kare wa hannin o toraerarenakatta.) - He couldn't catch the criminal. 彼女は真実を 捕らえている。(Kanojo wa shinjitsu o toraete iru.) - She is grasping the truth.
- Passive Voice
- The passive form 捕らえられる (is caught/captured) is also common. Example: 犯人は警察に 捕らえられた。(Hannin wa keisatsu ni toraerareta.) - The criminal was captured by the police. The criminal (subject) was captured by the police (agent).
The detective will 捕らえる the suspect by tomorrow.
It took me a long time to 捕らえる the nuances of this Japanese grammar point.
- Subject-Object Relationship
- The subject performs the action of catching, and the object is what gets caught. This is a core aspect of Japanese sentence structure.
- Verb Conjugation
- Remember to conjugate 捕らえる according to tense (past, present, future) and mood (affirmative, negative, potential, etc.).
- Particles
- The particle を (o) is crucial for marking the direct object that is being caught.
- News Reports and Crime Dramas
- This is a very common verb in news broadcasts, especially when reporting on crime. You'll hear phrases like "警察が犯人を 捕らえた" (The police captured the criminal) or "逃走していた男が 捕らえられました" (The man who was fleeing was captured). Crime dramas and police procedurals on television also frequently use this word to describe the actions of law enforcement.
- Documentaries and Nature Programs
- In documentaries about wildlife, 捕らえる is used to describe animals catching their prey. For example, a narrator might say, "ライオンがシマウマを 捕らえようとしている" (The lion is trying to catch the zebra) or "フクロウは夜にネズミを 捕らえる" (Owls catch mice at night). This usage highlights the predatory aspect of the natural world.
- Educational Settings and Academic Discussions
- When discussing complex theories, concepts, or ideas, especially in academic or educational contexts, 捕らえる is used metaphorically. A professor might say, "この概念を 捕らえるのは難しいかもしれません" (It might be difficult to grasp this concept) or "学生たちは授業で新しい知識を 捕らえようとしていた" (The students were trying to capture new knowledge in class).
- Literature and Art Critiques
- When reviewing books, films, or art, critics might use 捕らえる to describe how a work captures the audience's emotions or attention. For instance, "この映画は観客の心を深く 捕らえた" (This movie deeply captured the audience's hearts) or "作家の言葉遣いは読者の想像力を 捕らえた" (The author's wording captured the reader's imagination).
- Everyday Conversations about Understanding
- In casual conversations, people might use 捕らえる to express that they finally understood something. If someone explains a difficult topic and you finally get it, you could say, "ああ、やっと 捕らえられました！" (Ah, I finally got it!). This shows its utility in expressing moments of realization.
The news anchor reported that the police managed to 捕らえる the burglars.
The documentary showed a hawk 捕らえる a small rodent.
- Formal vs. Informal
- While 捕らえる can be used in both formal and informal settings, its literal meaning in legal or crime contexts tends to be more formal. The figurative use for understanding is common in everyday conversation.
- Common Verb Compounds
- You might hear it combined with other verbs to express nuances, such as 捕らえようとする (to try to catch) or 捕らえかねる (to be unable to catch).
- Confusing with Similar Verbs
- Learners sometimes confuse 捕らえる with verbs like"つかむ" (tsukamu - to grab, to seize) or "得る" (eru - to get, to obtain). While there's overlap, 捕らえる often implies a more determined or successful capture, especially in official or predatory contexts. つかむ is more about the physical act of grabbing, and"得る" is broader, meaning to acquire.
- Overuse in Figurative Senses
- While 捕らえる is versatile, it's important not to overuse it for every instance of understanding or grasping. For simpler understanding, verbs like"わかる" (wakaru - to understand) or "理解する" (rikai suru - to comprehend) might be more appropriate. Using 捕らえる for understanding implies a more active effort or a deeper, more sudden realization.
- Incorrect Particle Usage
- The direct object being captured is almost always marked by the particle を (o). Mistakenly using other particles like が (ga) or に (ni) can lead to ungrammatical sentences. For example, saying 警察が犯人を 捕らえた (correct) instead of 警察が犯人が 捕らえた (incorrect).
- Misinterpreting the Subject
- In passive constructions, like 犯人は警察に 捕らえられた (The criminal was captured by the police), learners might mistakenly think the criminal is the one doing the capturing. It's crucial to understand that in the passive voice, the subject is the one being acted upon.
- Applying Literal Meaning to Abstract Concepts Inappropriately
- While 捕らえる can be used for abstract concepts, applying it too literally can sound odd. For example, saying "I want to 捕らえる happiness" might not sound natural. For abstract desires, other verbs like"求める" (motomeru - to seek) or "得る" (eru - to obtain) are often better choices.
Mistake: 彼はアイデアを掴んだ。(Kare wa aidea o tsukanda.) Correct: 彼はアイデアを 捕らえた。(Kare wa aidea o toraeta.)
Mistake: 私は理解しました。(Watashi wa rikai shimashita.) if you mean you finally 'got' a difficult concept after struggling.
- Particle Errors
- Always use を (o) to mark the direct object of 捕らえる when it is being physically caught or conceptually grasped.
- Figurative vs. Literal
- Ensure the context justifies the figurative use of 捕らえる. For simple understanding, simpler verbs are often preferred.
- つかむ (tsukamu)
- Difference: つかむ is more about the physical act of grabbing or seizing something with your hand. It's less about a successful, complete capture and more about the immediate action. 捕らえる implies a more determined, often successful, capture. つかむ can also mean to seize an opportunity or to understand something in a more general sense, but 捕らえる is stronger for deep understanding or official capture.
- 得る (eru)
- Difference:"得る" is a general verb meaning 'to get,' 'to obtain,' or 'to acquire.' It's a much broader term than 捕らえる. You can"得る" knowledge, skills, or objects. While you can"得る" understanding, 捕らえる implies a more active, forceful, or definitive grasp of a concept. You wouldn't typically use"得る" to describe a police arrest.
- 理解する (rikai suru)
- Difference:"理解する" specifically means 'to comprehend' or 'to understand' intellectually. It's a direct equivalent for understanding concepts. 捕らえる, when used figuratively for understanding, suggests a more active, sometimes even a sudden or difficult, process of grasping the core meaning, rather than just intellectual comprehension. It can imply internalizing the concept.
- 捉える (toraeru) - Same Kanji, Different Pronunciation/Nuance
- Difference: The kanji 捉 is the same, but the pronunciation is often"toraeru". While largely interchangeable with 捕らえる in many contexts, 捉える can sometimes carry a slightly softer nuance, or be used more frequently for abstract concepts like emotions or perceptions. However, for practical purposes, especially at the B1 level, 捕らえる is the more common and safer choice for both literal and figurative meanings.
- 逮捕する (taihu suru)
- Difference:"逮捕する" specifically means 'to arrest' in a legal sense. It is a more formal and precise term for the act of apprehending a suspect by law enforcement. 捕らえる can also mean 'to arrest,' but it is a broader term that can encompass other types of capture as well. In legal contexts,"逮捕する" is often preferred for its specificity.
- 捕獲する (hokaku suru)
- Difference:"捕獲する" is a more formal term often used for capturing animals, especially in military or scientific contexts (e.g., capturing a wild animal for study or a spy). It implies a skilled or strategic capture. 捕らえる is more general for capturing animals.
Using 捕らえる for a criminal arrest is appropriate, while using"得る" would be incorrect.
He managed to grab the falling book (つかむ), but the police captured the thief (捕らえる).
- Context is Key
- The choice between these verbs often depends heavily on the context and the specific nuance you wish to convey.
- Figurative Usage Range
- 捕らえる has a wider range for figurative use (understanding, emotion, attention) than many of its synonyms.
How Formal Is It?
Wusstest du?
The kanji 捕 itself is composed of the radical 扌 (hand) and the phonetic component 甫 (ho, fu), suggesting the action of catching with the hand. Over time, the verb える was appended to create the more specific verb 捕らえる.
Aussprachehilfe
- Pronouncing 'to' as 'tsu'.
- Not rolling the 'r' sound in 'ra'.
- Making the 'e' sound too long or too short.
- Incorrectly stressing the first or last syllable.
Schwierigkeitsgrad
At the B1 level, learners can understand the main points of clear standard input. 捕らえる is common in news and narratives, making it relatively accessible for reading comprehension. However, distinguishing its figurative nuances from literal uses or similar verbs requires careful attention.
Producing sentences with 捕らえる at the B1 level requires understanding correct particle usage (especially を) and applying the appropriate literal or figurative meaning. Overuse or misuse in figurative contexts can be challenging.
Speaking fluently with 捕らえる involves quick recall and appropriate contextual application. Learners might hesitate when choosing between 捕らえる and other verbs or when deciding on the correct figurative meaning.
Recognizing 捕らえる in spoken Japanese, especially when spoken quickly or in complex sentences, can be challenging. Distinguishing between its various meanings based on context is key.
Was du als Nächstes lernen solltest
Voraussetzungen
Als Nächstes lernen
Fortgeschritten
Wichtige Grammatik
Using the particle を (o) to mark the direct object.
猫がネズミを 捕らえる。(The cat captures the mouse.) - Here, "ネズミ" (mouse) is the direct object marked by を.
The passive voice with られる (rareru).
犯人は警察に 捕らえられた。(The criminal was captured by the police.) - The criminal (subject) is acted upon.
The potential form with える (eru).
私はその理論を 捕らえることができる。(I can grasp that theory.) - Indicates ability.
The volitional form with う (u) / よう (you).
犯人を 捕らえよう。(Let's try to capture the criminal.) - Suggests an intention or plan.
The causative form (less common for 捕らえる, but conceptually possible).
先生は生徒に難しい問題を 捕らえさせた。(The teacher made the students grasp the difficult problem.) - Implies causing someone else to capture/understand.
Beispiele nach Niveau
猫が魚を捕らえる。
Cat catches fish.
Simple subject-object-verb structure.
男の子がボールを捕らえる。
Boy catches ball.
Basic verb conjugation.
警察が泥棒を捕らえる。
Police catch thief.
Literal capture.
鳥が虫を捕らえる。
Bird catches bug.
Animal catching prey.
犬がボールを捕らえる。
Dog catches ball.
Simple action verb.
魚が餌を捕らえる。
Fish catches bait.
Aquatic creature catching food.
子供が蝶を捕らえる。
Child catches butterfly.
Action of capturing.
野球選手がフライを捕らえる。
Baseball player catches fly ball.
Sports context.
警察は昨夜、強盗を 捕らえました。
The police captured the robber last night.
Past tense of 捕らえる.
その猫はいつもネズミを 捕らえるのが上手です。
That cat is always good at catching mice.
Describing a skill.
彼は新しいアイデアを 捕らえようとしています。
He is trying to grasp the new idea.
Figurative use: grasping an idea.
この映画は観客の心を 捕らえるだろう。
This movie will capture the audience's hearts.
Future tense, figurative: capturing emotions.
子供たちは昆虫を 捕らえるのが好きです。
Children like to catch insects.
Describing a hobby.
探偵は犯人の手がかりを 捕らえようとした。
The detective tried to catch a clue of the criminal.
Figurative: catching a clue.
その美しい景色は私の目を 捕らえた。
That beautiful scenery captured my eyes.
Figurative: capturing attention.
彼は先生の説明を 捕らえようと一生懸命だった。
He was working hard to grasp the teacher's explanation.
Figurative: grasping an explanation.
警察は長年の捜査の末、ついに逃亡犯を 捕らえることに成功した。
After many years of investigation, the police finally succeeded in capturing the fugitive.
Complex sentence with successful capture.
この小説は、人間の心の複雑な動きを巧みに 捕らえている。
This novel skillfully captures the complex movements of the human heart.
Figurative use: capturing psychological nuances.
彼が言ったことの真意を 捕らえるのは難しかった。
It was difficult to grasp the true meaning of what he said.
Figurative use: difficulty in understanding.
その広告は、ターゲット層の注意を 効果的に 捕らえました。
That advertisement effectively captured the attention of the target audience.
Figurative use: capturing attention.
野生動物の保護活動家は、傷ついた鳥を 捕らえて治療した。
The wildlife conservationist captured the injured bird and treated it.
Literal capture for care.
彼女は芸術作品の持つ独特な雰囲気を 捕らえ、それを言葉で表現しようとした。
She captured the unique atmosphere of the artwork and tried to express it in words.
Figurative use: capturing essence/atmosphere.
この歴史的な出来事の重要性を 捕らえるためには、当時の社会背景を理解する必要がある。
To grasp the importance of this historical event, one needs to understand the social background of the time.
Figurative use: grasping importance.
科学者は、新しい種の昆虫を 捕らえるために熱帯雨林へ旅立った。
Scientists traveled to the rainforest to capture a new species of insect.
Literal capture for scientific research.
警察は、長年にわたる執念の捜査の末、ついに組織犯罪の首謀者を 捕らえることに成功した。
After years of relentless investigation, the police finally succeeded in capturing the mastermind of organized crime.
Formal context, successful capture of a high-profile target.
その作家は、現代社会に潜む孤独感や疎外感を鋭く 捕らえ、読者に深い共感を呼び起こした。
The author keenly captured the feelings of loneliness and alienation lurking in modern society, evoking deep empathy in readers.
Figurative use: capturing abstract social issues.
彼のスピーチは、聴衆の注意を 捕らえるだけでなく、彼らの心にも深く響くものだった。
His speech not only captured the audience's attention but also resonated deeply with their hearts.
Figurative use: capturing attention and emotional impact.
このドキュメンタリーは、絶滅の危機に瀕した動物たちの生態を克明に 捕らえ、その保護の重要性を訴えている。
This documentary meticulously captures the ecology of endangered animals, appealing for their conservation.
Figurative use: capturing detailed observations.
理論物理学者は、宇宙の根源的な法則を 捕らえるための新たな数理モデルを構築しようとしている。
Theoretical physicists are trying to construct a new mathematical model to capture the fundamental laws of the universe.
Figurative use: capturing abstract scientific principles.
彼女は、子供たちの純粋な好奇心や無邪気さを 捕らえた写真で国際的な評価を得た。
She gained international recognition for her photographs that captured the pure curiosity and innocence of children.
Figurative use: capturing intangible qualities.
この古典文学作品は、当時の人々の生活様式や価値観を鮮やかに 捕らえている。
This classic literary work vividly captures the lifestyle and values of people at that time.
Figurative use: capturing historical essence.
警察は、証拠の断片から犯人の行動パターンを 捕らえ、捜査を進展させた。
The police captured the criminal's behavior pattern from fragments of evidence, advancing the investigation.
Figurative use: capturing patterns.
その芸術家は、人間の感情の移ろいやすさや、その深淵を 捕らえることに生涯を捧げた。
The artist dedicated his life to capturing the transience and depth of human emotions.
Sophisticated figurative use for complex human states.
現代のジャーナリズムは、複雑化する社会現象の本質を 捕らえることに苦慮しており、しばしば表面的な描写に留まる。
Contemporary journalism struggles to capture the essence of increasingly complex social phenomena, often remaining at a superficial level of description.
Critique of journalistic depth, figurative capture of essence.
彼の哲学は、実存的な不安や、人生の意味を 捕らえようとする人間の営みを深く洞察している。
His philosophy deeply insightfully captures existential anxiety and the human endeavor to grasp the meaning of life.
Figurative use in philosophical discourse.
この音楽作品は、聴く者の内面世界に深く入り込み、言葉では表現しきれない感覚を 捕らえる力を持っている。
This musical piece has the power to delve deep into the listener's inner world and capture sensations that cannot be fully expressed in words.
Figurative use for artistic impact on inner experience.
歴史学者は、過去の出来事の多層的な意味合いを 捕らえるため、一次資料と二次資料を丹念に照合する。
Historians meticulously cross-reference primary and secondary sources to capture the multilayered meanings of past events.
Figurative use in historical research methodology.
その詩人は、自然界の儚い美しさや、その刹那的な輝きを 捕らえた詩を書いた。
The poet wrote poems that captured the ephemeral beauty and fleeting radiance of the natural world.
Figurative use for capturing transient natural beauty.
企業は、消費者の潜在的なニーズや、まだ言語化されていない欲求を 捕らえるための市場調査に多額の投資を行う。
Companies invest heavily in market research to capture consumers' latent needs and unarticulated desires.
Figurative use in business and marketing.
現代アートは、しばしば観る者の固定観念を 捕らえ、それを揺るがすような挑発的な表現を用いる。
Contemporary art often captures the viewer's preconceived notions and uses provocative expressions to shake them.
Figurative use in art critique, challenging perceptions.
その批評家は、現代文学におけるポストモダニズムの複雑な諸相を 巧みに 捕らえ、その影響力を詳細に分析した。
The critic skillfully captured the complex facets of postmodernism in contemporary literature and analyzed its influence in detail.
Highly nuanced figurative use in literary criticism.
心理学者は、人間の意識の深層に潜む無意識の力動や、それが行動に及ぼす影響を 捕らえるための新たなパラダイムを模索している。
Psychologists are exploring new paradigms to capture the unconscious dynamics lurking in the depths of human consciousness and their impact on behavior.
Figurative use in advanced psychological theory.
その社会学者は、グローバル化の奔流の中で失われつつある地域文化の精髄を 捕らえ、その保存の必要性を訴えた。
The sociologist captured the essence of regional cultures that are being lost in the torrent of globalization and advocated for their preservation.
Figurative use for capturing cultural essence and advocating.
その音楽家は、聴く者の魂の奥底に眠る原初的な感情を 呼び覚まし、それを音の綾として 捕らえることに成功した。
The musician succeeded in awakening primordial emotions dormant in the depths of the listener's soul and capturing them as a tapestry of sound.
Poetic and highly evocative figurative use.
哲学者は、言語の限界を超えて、存在そのものの根源的な神秘を 捕らえようと試みる。
Philosophers attempt to capture the fundamental mystery of existence itself, transcending the limitations of language.
Figurative use for profound philosophical inquiry.
その映画監督は、現代社会における人間の内面的な葛藤や、その複雑な心理描写を 徹底的に 捕らえ、観客に強烈な印象を与えた。
The film director thoroughly captured the internal conflicts of individuals in modern society and their complex psychological portrayals, leaving a strong impression on the audience.
Figurative use for detailed psychological depiction in art.
科学史家は、過去の科学的発見の創造的な閃きや、その発見に至るまでの試行錯誤の過程を 捕らえることに注力する。
Historians of science focus on capturing the creative sparks of past scientific discoveries and the trial-and-error process leading to them.
Figurative use for capturing the process of discovery.
その言語学者は、消滅の危機にある少数言語の独特な文法構造や、その言語が内包する世界観を 捕らえるためのフィールドワークを行った。
The linguist conducted fieldwork to capture the unique grammatical structures of endangered minority languages and the worldview they encompass.
Figurative use for capturing linguistic and cultural essence.
Häufige Kollokationen
Häufige Phrasen
— Elusive; hard to grasp or define. Often used for people, ideas, or phenomena that are difficult to pin down.
その芸術家の意図は捕らえどころがない。(The artist's intention is elusive.)
— Cannot be caught; uncontainable. Used for things that are too fast, too numerous, or too abstract to be captured.
そのスピードは捕らえきれないほど速かった。(The speed was so fast it couldn't be captured.)
— To try to catch or grasp. Indicates an effort being made.
彼は真実を捕らえようとしている。(He is trying to grasp the truth.)
— Is being caught or captured. Passive form.
犯人は警察に捕らえられている。(The criminal is being captured by the police.)
— Was caught or captured (often unintentionally or unfortunately). Past passive form.
彼は偶然、警官に捕らえられてしまった。(He was accidentally caught by a police officer.)
— Can catch; is able to catch. Potential form.
このカメラで鳥を捕らえることができる。(This camera can capture birds.)
— Could not catch. Past negative potential form.
逃走犯を捕らえられなかった。(They couldn't catch the fugitive.)
— Was caught or captured. Past tense, passive voice.
その動物は罠に捕らえられた。(That animal was caught in a trap.)
— Do not want to be caught. Negative desire form.
彼は決して捕らえられたくないと思っている。(He never wants to be caught.)
— Will end up being caught. Future passive, often with a sense of inevitability.
隠れていても、いつか捕らえられてしまうだろう。(Even if I hide, I will probably end up being caught someday.)
Wird oft verwechselt mit
While both can mean 'to grab' or 'to catch,' つかむ is often more about the physical act of gripping, whereas 捕らえる implies a more complete or determined capture, especially in official or predatory contexts.
This specifically means 'to comprehend' or 'to understand' intellectually. 捕らえる, when used figuratively for understanding, suggests a more active, sometimes sudden, grasp of the core meaning or essence.
A general verb meaning 'to get' or 'to obtain.' It's much broader than 捕らえる, which focuses on the act of capturing or apprehending.
Redewendungen & Ausdrücke
— An elusive person; someone hard to understand, predict, or pin down. This idiom emphasizes the difficulty in grasping their character or intentions.
彼はあまりにも捕らえどころのない人物なので、付き合うのが難しい。(He is such an elusive person that it's difficult to get along with him.)
— To grasp the truth; to uncover the real facts of a situation. This idiom highlights the effort and insight needed to find the truth.
探偵は事件の真相を 捕らえようと必死に捜査した。(The detective desperately investigated to grasp the truth of the case.)
— To touch someone's heartstrings; to evoke deep emotions or feelings. This idiom describes something that deeply resonates with a person's emotions.
その悲しい物語は、多くの人々の心の琴線に 捕らえた。(That sad story touched many people's heartstrings.)
— To capture the spirit of the age; to represent the prevailing mood, ideas, or trends of a particular era.
その小説は、現代社会の不安を巧みに 捕らえている。(That novel skillfully captures the anxiety of modern society, the spirit of the age.)
— To cleverly capture; to ingeniously seize. This phrase suggests a skillful or cunning method of capture, whether literal or figurative.
彼は相手の隙を巧妙に 捕らえ、勝利を収めた。(He cleverly seized the opponent's opening and achieved victory.)
— To grasp the essence; to understand the fundamental nature of something. This idiom emphasizes deep comprehension.
この分析は問題の本質をよく 捕らえている。(This analysis grasps the essence of the problem well.)
— This is not a standard idiom, but can be interpreted as 'to try to capture time as it flies like an arrow.' It implies an effort to grasp or appreciate fleeting moments.
人生の儚さを 捕らえようと、彼は日記をつけ始めた。(Trying to capture the fleetingness of life, he started keeping a diary.)
— To catch someone off guard; to exploit someone's carelessness or lapse in vigilance.
敵は兵士たちの油断を 捕らえ、奇襲を仕掛けた。(The enemy captured the soldiers' lapse in vigilance and launched a surprise attack.)
— To capture a moment; to freeze a fleeting instant in time, often used in photography or art.
写真家は、その決定的瞬間を一瞬 捕らえた。(The photographer captured that decisive moment.)
— To escape the net; to evade capture. This idiom uses the metaphor of a net to represent a system of control or capture.
彼は巧妙に捜査網の目を 捕らえ、逃げ延びた。(He cleverly evaded the net of the investigation and escaped.)
Leicht verwechselbar
Both verbs can relate to the act of taking hold of something.
捕らえる implies a more definitive, successful, or official capture (like arresting a criminal or a predator catching prey). つかむ is more about the physical act of grabbing with one's hand, or seizing an opportunity. For example, you 'tsukamu' a doorknob, but the police 'toraeru' a criminal.
彼はボールをつかんだ。(He grabbed the ball.) vs. 警察は犯人を捕らえた。(The police captured the criminal.)
When 捕らえる is used figuratively for understanding, it can seem similar to 'to understand'.
理解する is about intellectual comprehension. 捕らえる, in this figurative sense, implies a deeper, more active 'grasping' or internalizing of a concept, often after some effort or struggle. It suggests capturing the essence or core meaning. For example, you 'rikai suru' a simple instruction, but you 'toraeru' a complex theory.
私はこの文を理解した。(I understood this sentence.) vs. 彼はその哲学の核心を捕らえようとした。(He tried to grasp the core of that philosophy.)
Both can translate to 'arrest' in English.
逮捕する is a specific, formal term for arresting someone by legal authorities. 捕らえる is more general and can mean 'to arrest,' but also 'to capture' animals or 'to grasp' ideas. In official legal contexts, 逮捕する is often preferred for its precision.
警察が犯人を逮捕した。(The police arrested the criminal.) vs. 警察は逃亡犯を捕らえた。(The police captured the fugitive.)
Both can mean to secure or capture.
確保する means to secure, ensure, or obtain safely. It can be used for capturing targets or securing situations, often with a sense of safety or control. 捕らえる focuses more on the act of seizing or apprehending. For example, you might "kakuho suru" a suspect to ensure they don't escape, or you might "toraeru" them in the act.
警察は犯人を確保した。(The police secured the criminal.) vs. 警察は犯人を捕らえた。(The police captured the criminal.)
They share the same kanji and often have overlapping meanings.
While largely interchangeable, 捉える (toraeru) can sometimes carry a slightly softer or more literary nuance, particularly when referring to abstract concepts like emotions, perceptions, or atmosphere. 捕らえる (toraeru) is generally more common and robust for both literal and figurative uses, especially in formal or legal contexts.
その絵は見る者の心を捉える。(That painting captures the viewer's heart.) vs. 警察は犯人を捕らえた。(The police captured the criminal.)
Satzmuster
[Noun] が [Noun] を 捕らえる。
猫が魚を 捕らえる。
[Subject] は [Object] を 捕らえました。
警察は泥棒を 捕らえました。
[Subject] は [Object] の意味を 捕らえようとしている。
彼はその理論の意味を 捕らえようとしている。
[Object] は [Agent] に 捕らえられた。
犯人は警察に 捕らえられた。
[Subject] は [Object] の注意を 捕らえる。
その広告は人々の注意を 捕らえた。
[Subject] は [Object] の心を 捕らえる。
その音楽は私の心を 捕らえた。
[Subject] は [Object] の本質を 捕らえる。
その分析は問題の本質を 捕らえている。
[Object] を 捕らえることが難しい。
その概念を 捕らえることが難しい。
Wortfamilie
Substantive
Verben
Verwandt
So verwendest du es
High. It is a common verb used in various contexts.
-
Using 捕らえる for simple physical grabbing.
→
つかむ
While 捕らえる can mean 'to grab,'"つかむ" is more specific for the physical act of gripping something with your hand. 捕らえる often implies a more determined or successful capture.
-
Using 捕らえる for basic understanding.
→
理解する or わかる
For simple comprehension,"理解する" (rikai suru) or"わかる" (wakaru) are more appropriate. 捕らえる implies a deeper, more active 'grasping' of a concept, often after effort.
-
Incorrectly using particles.
→
Use を (o) to mark the direct object.
The object being caught or grasped is typically marked by the particle を. Forgetting this or using the wrong particle is a common error.
-
Confusing literal and figurative meanings.
→
Choose the verb that best fits the context.
Applying a literal capture meaning to an abstract concept, or vice versa, can lead to awkward or incorrect sentences. Always consider the context.
-
Using 捕らえる when"逮捕する" is more precise.
→
逮捕する
In formal legal contexts,"逮捕する" (taihu suru) is the specific term for arresting someone. While 捕らえる can mean 'arrest,'"逮捕する" is more precise and formal.
Tipps
Distinguish from Similar Verbs
Be mindful of verbs like"つかむ" (grab),"理解する" (understand), and"逮捕する" (arrest). Choose 捕らえる when it best fits the nuance of deliberate capture or deep grasping.
Master the Particle を
Remember that the direct object being captured or grasped is almost always marked by the particle を (o). Practice forming sentences correctly with this particle.
Embrace Figurative Uses
Don't be afraid to use 捕らえる for abstract concepts. It's a powerful verb for describing how ideas, emotions, or attention can be 'captured' or 'grasped'.
Sound It Out
Practice saying 捕らえる aloud, focusing on the stress on the 'ra' syllable and the distinct sounds of each mora. This will help with both recognition and production.
Write Your Own Sentences
Actively try to create sentences using 捕らえる in various contexts. This reinforces your understanding and helps you internalize its usage.
Listen for Nuances
When listening to Japanese, try to identify instances of 捕らえる and analyze the specific meaning conveyed by the context. This is crucial for developing a feel for the word.
Review Verb Forms
Ensure you are familiar with the different conjugations of 捕らえる, such as the passive (捕らえられる) and potential (捕らえられる) forms, as they significantly alter the sentence's meaning.
Understand Cultural Context
Recognize that in Japanese culture, the ability to 'grasp' concepts or 'capture' the essence of things is highly valued, making this verb relevant in many intellectual and artistic discussions.
Compare with Synonyms
Regularly compare 捕らえる with its synonyms like"つかむ", "理解する", and"逮捕する" to solidify your understanding of their distinct usages and nuances.
Einprägen
Eselsbrücke
Imagine a police officer trying to 'catch' a runaway criminal. The officer is 'trapped' in the pursuit, but determined to 'catch' them. The sound 'toraeru' can remind you of 'trying to catch' and the 'era' of the chase.
Visuelle Assoziation
Picture a strong net being thrown to catch a wild animal. The net is designed to 'toraeru' the animal. Alternatively, visualize a detective firmly 'grasping' a clue, symbolizing the capture of an idea.
Word Web
Herausforderung
Try to use 捕らえる in five different sentences today, covering at least two literal and three figurative meanings. Write them down and review them later.
Wortherkunft
The verb 捕らえる is formed from the kanji 捕 (to, hoka) meaning 'to catch' or 'to seize', and the verb える (eru) meaning 'to get' or 'to obtain'. The combination signifies the act of actively obtaining or seizing something.
Ursprüngliche Bedeutung: The core meaning revolves around the physical act of seizing and holding something.
Japonic (Japanese)Kultureller Kontext
When referring to arrests, 捕らえる is generally neutral. However, depending on the context, using it for individuals might require sensitivity, especially if discussing sensitive legal matters. For figurative uses like capturing emotions, it is generally safe and common.
In English, we have similar concepts like 'capture' (literal and figurative), 'arrest,' 'apprehend,' 'grasp,' 'seize,' and 'understand.' The key is to identify which nuance of 捕らえる best fits the English equivalent.
Im Alltag üben
Kontexte aus dem Alltag
Crime and Law Enforcement
- 犯人を 捕らえる
- 容疑者を 捕らえる
- 逃亡犯を 捕らえる
- 逮捕する
Nature and Animals
- 鳥が虫を 捕らえる
- 猫がネズミを 捕らえる
- ライオンが獲物を 捕らえる
- 動物を 捕獲する
Understanding Concepts
- 意味を 捕らえる
- 理論を 捕らえる
- 真意を 捕らえる
- 理解する
Capturing Attention/Emotions
- 注意を 捕らえる
- 心を 捕らえる
- 感動を 捕らえる
- 興味を引く
Art and Media
- 時代精神を 捕らえる
- 雰囲気を 捕らえる
- 瞬間を 捕らえる
- 描写する
Gesprächseinstiege
"Have you ever seen a movie where the police finally catch the bad guy? What was that verb in Japanese?"
"When you finally understand a difficult topic, what Japanese verb can you use to describe that feeling of 'grasping' it?"
"Think about a time an animal caught your eye. What verb would describe that animal catching something?"
"If a story or song really moves you emotionally, what verb might describe that feeling of it 'capturing' your heart?"
"Can you think of a situation where someone is trying to catch something, but it's very difficult? What would you say in Japanese?"
Tagebuch-Impulse
Describe a time you successfully 'captured' a difficult concept in Japanese class. Use the verb 捕らえる.
Write about a time you witnessed an animal 'capturing' its prey. How did it happen?
Imagine you are a detective trying to 'capture' a criminal. Write a short narrative about your pursuit.
Reflect on a piece of art, music, or literature that 'captured' your attention or emotions. Describe what it was and how it affected you.
Write about something that is 'elusive' or hard to 'capture' in your life. It could be a feeling, an idea, or even a physical object.
Häufig gestellte Fragen
10 FragenNo, 捕らえる is also used figuratively. It can mean to grasp an idea, capture someone's attention, or evoke emotions. For example, '彼はその理論の核心を 捕らえようとしている' (He is trying to grasp the core of that theory).
捕らえる implies a more complete or determined capture, often successful (like arresting a criminal or a predator catching prey). つかむ is more about the physical act of grabbing with your hand, or seizing an opportunity. Think of 'tsukamu' as a quick grab and 'toraeru' as a successful apprehension.
Use 理解する for general intellectual comprehension. Use 捕らえる when you want to convey a deeper, more active 'grasping' or internalization of a concept, often after some effort. It suggests capturing the essence or core meaning.
Yes, though less common than for living things or abstract concepts. For example, 'The wind captured the falling leaves' could potentially use 捕らえる, but other verbs might be more natural depending on the nuance. It's most common for living beings, ideas, emotions, and attention.
The passive form is 捕らえられる (toraerareru). For example, '犯人は警察に 捕らえられた' (The criminal was captured by the police).
You can use the volitional form: 捕らえようとする (toraeyou to suru). For example, '彼は犯人を 捕らえようとした' (He tried to capture the criminal).
They share the same kanji and often have interchangeable meanings. However, 捉える can sometimes have a softer or more literary nuance, especially for abstract concepts. 捕らえる is generally more common and robust for literal and formal uses.
Common phrases include 捕らえどころがない (elusive), 心を 捕らえる (capture the heart), 注意を 捕らえる (capture attention), and 意味を 捕らえる (grasp the meaning).
In news, it's frequently used for arrests: '警察は容疑者を 捕らえた' (The police captured the suspect). It can also describe the capture of animals or the capturing of important information.
Yes, absolutely. For example, '真実を 捕らえる' (to grasp the truth) or '本質を 捕らえる' (to capture the essence) are common figurative uses.
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Summary
捕らえる is a versatile verb meaning to catch or capture, applicable to both physical objects and abstract concepts like ideas, attention, or emotions. Its usage ranges from literal arrests and hunting to metaphorical understanding and emotional impact.
- 捕らえる means to catch, capture, or arrest.
- It can be used literally for people/animals, or figuratively for ideas/emotions.
- Common in news, nature documentaries, and discussions about understanding.
- Be careful not to confuse it with similar verbs like つかむ or 理解する.
Context is Key
Always pay attention to the surrounding words and the overall situation to determine whether 捕らえる is being used literally (physical capture) or figuratively (understanding, attention, emotion).
Distinguish from Similar Verbs
Be mindful of verbs like"つかむ" (grab),"理解する" (understand), and"逮捕する" (arrest). Choose 捕らえる when it best fits the nuance of deliberate capture or deep grasping.
Master the Particle を
Remember that the direct object being captured or grasped is almost always marked by the particle を (o). Practice forming sentences correctly with this particle.
Embrace Figurative Uses
Don't be afraid to use 捕らえる for abstract concepts. It's a powerful verb for describing how ideas, emotions, or attention can be 'captured' or 'grasped'.
Verwandte Inhalte
Mehr nature Wörter
～上
B1Das Wort 'ue' bedeutet 'auf' oder 'über'.
〜の上
A2Auf oder über etwas. Zum Beispiel: 'Das Buch liegt auf dem Tisch' (Hon wa tsukue no ue ni arimasu).
豊か
B1Reichhaltig; üppig. Ein reiches Leben (Ein yutaka Leben).
〜に従って
B1Gemäß den Anweisungen wurde das Gerät installiert.
酸性雨
B1Saurer Regen ist Niederschlag, dessen pH-Wert durch Luftverschmutzung gesenkt wurde.
営み
B1Aktivität; tägliches Leben; Unternehmung (z. B. die Aktivitäten des Lebens).
順応する
B1Sich an eine neue Umgebung oder Situation anpassen.
~を背景に
B1Vor dem Hintergrund von; mit... als Hintergrund.
空気
A2air
大気汚染
B1Luftverschmutzung ist das Vorhandensein von Schadstoffen in der Luft. 'Die Luftverschmutzung in Großstädten hat in den letzten Jahren zugenommen.'
