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A1 verb #2,500 am häufigsten 15 Min. Lesezeit

ならう

narau
At the A1 level, learners are introduced to 'narau' as a fundamental vocabulary word for discussing daily routines, hobbies, and school life. The primary focus is on understanding its basic meaning ('to learn' or 'to take lessons') and distinguishing it from 'benkyou suru' (to study). A1 learners are taught to use 'narau' with simple, concrete nouns related to skills and arts, such as 'piano', 'nihongo' (Japanese), or 'suiei' (swimming). The grammatical structures introduced at this stage are straightforward: '[Subject] wa [Object] o narau' (I learn [Object]) and the past tense '[Object] o naraimashita' (I learned [Object]). Learners practice answering simple questions like 'Nani o naratte imasu ka?' (What are you learning?). The concept that 'narau' requires a teacher is introduced early on to prevent the common mistake of using it for self-study. A1 textbooks typically feature dialogues where characters discuss their extracurricular activities, providing clear, contextual examples of 'narau' in action. The goal at this level is basic comprehension and the ability to produce simple, accurate sentences about one's own learning experiences. Mastery of 'narau' at A1 sets the foundation for more complex discussions about education and skill acquisition in later stages. It is a high-frequency word that is essential for basic communication and relationship building, as asking about someone's hobbies or lessons is a common icebreaker in Japanese culture. Teachers at this level emphasize rote practice and simple substitution drills to ensure the correct particle 'o' (を) is used with the object being learned.
At the A2 level, the usage of 'narau' expands to include more detailed descriptions of the learning process. Learners are introduced to the particles 'ni' (に) and 'kara' (から) to specify the teacher or source of instruction, allowing for sentences like 'Sensei ni nihongo o naraimashita' (I learned Japanese from the teacher). The continuous form 'naratte imasu' (is currently learning) becomes a key focus, as it is the most natural way to express ongoing hobbies or lessons. A2 learners practice integrating 'narau' into longer narratives about their past experiences and future plans. For example, they might say, 'Kodomo no toki, piano o naraimashita ga, ima wa naratte imasen' (I learned piano when I was a child, but I am not learning it now). The vocabulary associated with 'narau' broadens to include a wider variety of sports, traditional arts, and practical skills. Furthermore, learners begin to use 'narau' with nominalizers like 'koto' or 'no' to express opinions, such as 'Dansu o narau no wa tanoshii desu' (Learning dance is fun). The distinction between 'narau' and 'manabu' is reinforced, ensuring learners understand the practical, teacher-led nuance of 'narau'. Role-playing exercises often involve interviewing classmates about their 'naraigoto' (lessons), fostering conversational fluency. By the end of A2, learners should be comfortable discussing their educational background and current skill-building activities with relative ease and grammatical accuracy, using appropriate tenses and particles.
At the B1 level, learners possess a solid grasp of 'narau' and begin to encounter it in more complex grammatical structures and authentic contexts. The focus shifts from simple sentences to expressing desires, intentions, and conditions related to learning. Learners practice forms like 'naraitai' (want to learn), 'narau tsumori desu' (plan to learn), and 'naraeba' (if I learn). They are expected to comprehend 'narau' in reading passages about Japanese culture, such as articles discussing the 'iemoto' system or the popularity of adult evening classes ('eikaiwa' or cooking schools). B1 learners also start to differentiate 'narau' from closely related verbs like 'oboeru' (to memorize) and 'mi ni tsukeru' (to acquire a skill) in more nuanced ways. They can explain *why* they are learning something, using conjunctions like 'kara' or 'node'. For example: 'Nihon ni ryugaku shitai node, nihongo o naratte imasu' (I am learning Japanese because I want to study abroad in Japan). The vocabulary paired with 'narau' becomes more abstract, moving beyond simple hobbies to include professional skills or specific techniques (e.g., 'puroguramingu o narau' - to learn programming). Listening comprehension exercises at this level might include interviews or podcasts where native speakers discuss their lifelong learning journeys. B1 learners are encouraged to use 'narau' naturally in spontaneous conversation, demonstrating an understanding of its cultural implications regarding mentorship and structured practice.
At the B2 level, 'narau' is fully integrated into the learner's active vocabulary, and the focus is on sociolinguistic competence and stylistic variation. Learners can discuss the concept of learning abstractly, comparing the benefits of 'narau' (formal instruction) versus 'dokugaku' (self-study). They encounter 'narau' in a wider range of authentic materials, including news reports, essays, and literature. At this stage, learners are expected to understand idiomatic expressions or compound words related to 'narau', such as 'minarai' (apprentice) or 'naraigoto' (extracurricular lessons), and use them appropriately. B2 learners can articulate complex thoughts about education systems, discussing the role of the teacher ('sensei') and the expectations placed on the student. They can use advanced grammar patterns with 'narau', such as passive forms ('narawasaserareru' - to be made to learn) to discuss childhood experiences with forced piano lessons, for example. The distinction between 'narau' and 'manabu' is explored in depth, with learners able to articulate that 'manabu' often implies a deeper, more philosophical or academic pursuit, while 'narau' remains rooted in practical skill transfer. Writing assignments might involve essays on the importance of lifelong learning in Japanese society, requiring the accurate and varied use of 'narau' alongside other related vocabulary. The goal is near-native fluency in discussing educational topics, with a clear understanding of the cultural weight behind the word.
At the C1 level, learners engage with 'narau' on a highly sophisticated and academic level. They can analyze texts that discuss the etymology of the kanji 習 and its historical implications for Japanese pedagogy. C1 learners are comfortable reading and discussing complex sociological or psychological texts regarding skill acquisition, the master-apprentice dynamic in traditional Japanese arts, and the evolution of 'naraigoto' in modern society. They can effortlessly switch between 'narau', 'manabu', 'shuutoku suru' (to acquire), and 'kenkyuu suru' (to research) depending on the precise nuance required by the context. At this level, 'narau' is used not just to describe personal experiences, but as a conceptual tool to critique or evaluate educational methodologies. Learners can participate in debates about the effectiveness of rote learning (often associated with traditional 'narau') versus critical thinking. They understand the subtle registers of the word and can use it in highly formal business contexts (e.g., learning corporate protocols from a senior executive) or in literary analysis. The focus is on perfect grammatical accuracy, native-like collocation, and a deep, intuitive understanding of the cultural and historical baggage the word carries. C1 learners do not just use 'narau'; they understand its place within the broader landscape of Japanese thought regarding discipline, repetition, and the transmission of knowledge across generations.
At the C2 level, the learner's command of 'narau' is indistinguishable from that of a highly educated native speaker. They possess a complete mastery of its nuances, historical context, and stylistic applications. C2 learners can effortlessly navigate classical literature or historical documents where older usages or related kanji forms might appear. They can write academic papers or deliver professional presentations on topics related to Japanese education, using 'narau' and its derivatives with absolute precision. They understand the profound cultural philosophy embedded in the concept of 'narau'—the idea of 'shu-ha-ri' (obey, detach, transcend) in martial arts and traditional practices, where 'narau' represents the initial 'shu' phase of faithful imitation. At this ultimate level of proficiency, the word 'narau' is a gateway to discussing the very essence of Japanese cultural transmission. C2 learners can manipulate the word for rhetorical effect, using it metaphorically or ironically in complex discourse. They are fully aware of regional variations, generational differences in usage, and the subtle shifts in meaning that occur in different professional or artistic subcultures. The distinction between 'narau' and its synonyms is no longer a matter of conscious thought but an automatic, intuitive reflex. Mastery at C2 means that 'narau' is fully integrated into the learner's linguistic identity, allowing for the most nuanced and sophisticated expression of thought regarding the human capacity to learn and teach.
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  • Requires a teacher or instructor.
  • Used for skills, arts, and sports.
  • Different from self-study (benkyou).
  • Implies repetition and practice.
The Japanese verb narau (習う) is an essential vocabulary word that every beginner encounters early in their language learning journey. It is primarily translated into English as 'to learn' or 'to take lessons in.' However, to fully grasp the depth and proper usage of this word, one must delve into the cultural, historical, and linguistic nuances that distinguish it from other similar verbs in the Japanese language, such as manabu (学ぶ) or benkyou suru (勉強する).
Core Concept
Acquiring skills from a teacher.
When we use narau, we are specifically referring to a situation where a student is acquiring a skill, an art, or a specific body of knowledge directly from a teacher, an instructor, or a master. This implies a transfer of knowledge that is often practical, procedural, or performative in nature.

先生から日本語をならう。

For instance, you would use narau when talking about learning how to play the piano, learning martial arts like judo or kendo, learning traditional arts such as tea ceremony (chado) or flower arrangement (ikebana), or even learning how to drive a car. The presence of a guiding figure is paramount to the core meaning of narau. Without a teacher, the action cannot truly be described as narau. This contrasts sharply with benkyou suru, which implies academic study, often self-directed, involving books, memorization, and intellectual effort. You can study history by yourself, but you cannot 'narau' history unless a specific teacher is imparting that knowledge to you in a structured lesson format.
Etymology
The kanji 習 depicts a bird learning to fly.
Furthermore, the kanji used for narau (習) has a fascinating etymology. The top part of the character represents feathers or wings, while the bottom part is a phonetic component that also carries the meaning of 'white' or 'clear.' Originally, this kanji depicted a young bird repeatedly flapping its wings, practicing how to fly.

子供がピアノをならう。

This vivid imagery perfectly encapsulates the essence of narau: it is about repetition, practice, and the physical or mental conditioning required to master a skill under the watchful eye of a parent bird or, metaphorically, a teacher. In Japanese society, the concept of learning from a master is deeply ingrained, particularly in traditional arts governed by the iemoto system. In this system, the master holds absolute authority, and the student's role is to faithfully replicate the master's forms before eventually developing their own style.

お茶をならうのは楽しいです。

This cultural backdrop adds a layer of reverence and structure to the act of narau. It is not merely about acquiring information; it is about entering into a specific relationship with a mentor and committing to a process of disciplined repetition. Therefore, when a Japanese person says they are 'narau-ing' something, they are often expressing a long-term commitment to personal development through structured guidance.
Usage Context
Commonly used with continuous tense for ongoing lessons.
This is why you often hear phrases like 'piano o naratte imasu' (I am taking piano lessons) rather than just saying 'I study piano.' The continuous form highlights the ongoing nature of this mentor-mentee relationship and the continuous practice involved.

私は水泳をならうつもりです。

Understanding this distinction is crucial for learners of Japanese, as using the wrong verb for 'to learn' can sound unnatural or convey the wrong nuance. If you say you are 'benkyou suru' the piano, it might sound like you are reading books about music theory rather than actually practicing the instrument.

新しい技術をならう。

Conversely, if you say you are 'narau' mathematics without a teacher, it sounds contradictory. Thus, mastering the usage of narau is not just about memorizing a vocabulary word; it is about adopting a Japanese perspective on education, skill acquisition, and the profound respect accorded to teachers and instructors in Japanese culture. By recognizing the subtle boundaries between narau, manabu, and benkyou suru, learners can communicate their educational experiences with greater accuracy and cultural sensitivity, thereby enhancing their overall fluency and comprehension of the Japanese language.
Understanding how to properly use the verb narau (習う) in everyday Japanese conversation requires a solid grasp of its grammatical properties, common collocations, and the specific contexts in which it naturally appears. As a Godan verb ending in 'u', its conjugation follows standard patterns, making it relatively straightforward for beginners to manipulate.
Grammar
Godan verb, takes the particle 'wo' (を) for the skill learned.
The most fundamental sentence structure involving narau is '[Subject] wa [Skill/Subject] o narau.' For example, 'Watashi wa piano o narau' means 'I learn the piano.' The particle 'o' (を) marks the direct object, which is the skill or subject being acquired.

ギターをならう。

However, because narau inherently implies learning from someone else, it is extremely common to include the source of the knowledge in the sentence. This is done using the particle 'ni' (に) or 'kara' (から). Therefore, a more complete and natural sentence structure would be '[Subject] wa [Teacher] ni [Skill] o narau.' For instance, 'Watashi wa Yamada-sensei ni nihongo o naraimashita' translates to 'I learned Japanese from Yamada-sensei.' Both 'ni' and 'kara' are acceptable here, though 'kara' can sometimes emphasize the transfer of knowledge from the source to the receiver.

母から料理をならう。

Another crucial aspect of using narau is understanding its tense and aspect. In Japanese, when you are currently taking lessons or actively engaged in a period of learning under a teacher, you almost always use the present continuous form, 'naratte iru' (習っている).
Continuous Form
Naratte imasu indicates ongoing lessons.
If someone asks you what your hobbies are, and you take weekly tennis lessons, you would say 'Tenisu o naratte imasu' (I am learning tennis / taking tennis lessons). Using the simple present 'narau' in this context would sound unnatural, as it implies a future action or a general statement of fact rather than an ongoing state.

今、ダンスをならっています。

Furthermore, narau is frequently used in conjunction with nominalizers like 'koto' (こと) or 'no' (の) to turn the act of learning into a noun phrase. For example, 'Piano o narau koto wa tanoshii desu' (Learning the piano is fun). It is also common to see narau in the desiderative form, 'naraitai' (習いたい), expressing the desire to learn something. 'Shodou o naraitai desu' means 'I want to learn calligraphy.' When discussing past experiences, the past tense 'naraimashita' (習いました) or 'naratta' (習った) is used to indicate that the period of instruction has concluded.

子供の頃、バイオリンをならいました。

'Kodomo no koro, suiei o naraimashita' (When I was a child, I learned swimming). It is important to note the types of nouns that typically precede narau. As mentioned in the previous section, these are usually skills, arts, or physical activities. Words like piano, tenisu, suiei (swimming), ryouri (cooking), shodou (calligraphy), and eikaiwa (English conversation) are classic collocations.
Collocations
Pairs well with arts, sports, and languages.
You will rarely see narau used with abstract academic subjects unless they are being taught in a highly structured, skill-based manner (like learning a specific mathematical technique from a tutor). By mastering these grammatical structures and collocations, learners can confidently and accurately incorporate narau into their Japanese repertoire, allowing them to discuss their educational backgrounds, current hobbies, and future aspirations with native-like fluency.

来年からフランス語をならう予定です。

The key is to always remember the implicit presence of a teacher and the practical nature of the skill being acquired.
The verb narau (習う) is ubiquitous in Japanese daily life, and you will encounter it in a wide variety of contexts, ranging from casual conversations among friends to formal educational settings and media broadcasts. Because lifelong learning and the pursuit of hobbies (often referred to as 'okeikogoto' or 'naraigoto') are highly valued in Japanese culture, discussions about what one is currently learning or has learned in the past are incredibly common.
Everyday Conversation
Frequently used when discussing hobbies and extracurriculars.
One of the most frequent places you will hear narau is in conversations about children's education and extracurricular activities. Parents often discuss what lessons their children are taking. You might hear a mother say, 'Uchi no ko wa juku no hoka ni, suiei to piano o naratte imasu' (In addition to cram school, our child is taking swimming and piano lessons).

娘はバレエをならっています。

In this context, the noun form 'naraigoto' (習い事), which translates to 'lessons' or 'extracurricular activities,' is also heavily used. The culture of naraigoto is a massive industry in Japan, encompassing everything from traditional abacus (soroban) and calligraphy (shūji) to modern dance and English conversation schools (eikaiwa). Therefore, any discussion about after-school schedules or weekend plans will likely feature the word narau. Furthermore, adults frequently use narau when talking about their own hobbies and self-improvement efforts. It is very common for working adults in Japan to attend evening or weekend classes to learn a new skill, relieve stress, or expand their social circle.

週末にヨガをならうのが好きです。

You might hear colleagues chatting in the breakroom: 'Saikin, ryouri kyoushitsu ni kayotte, wafuu ryouri o naratte irun desu' (Lately, I've been going to a cooking class and learning Japanese-style cooking).
Media and Pop Culture
Common in anime, dramas, and talk shows.
In media, such as television dramas, anime, and talk shows, narau appears whenever a character is undergoing training or seeking mentorship. A classic anime trope involves a protagonist begging a master to teach them a special technique: 'Douka, sono waza o narawasete kudasai!' (Please, let me learn that technique!).

師匠から奥義をならう。

In talk shows, celebrities are often interviewed about their hidden talents or recent endeavors, prompting questions like, 'Itsu kara sono gakki o naratte irun desu ka?' (Since when have you been learning that instrument?). You will also see narau in written forms, particularly in advertisements for schools, workshops, and private tutors. Flyers for a local community center might read, 'Hajimete no hito demo anshin shite narau koto ga dekimasu' (Even beginners can learn with peace of mind). In educational materials, textbooks themselves use narau to instruct students. For instance, a grammar book might state, 'Kyou wa atarashii kanji o naraimasu' (Today we will learn new kanji).

学校で歴史をならう。

Even in the workplace, while 'kenshuu' (training) is the more formal term, a senior employee might casually tell a junior, 'Kono shigoto no yarikata wa, senpai kara yoku naratte kudasai' (Please learn how to do this job well from your seniors).
Workplace
Used when learning procedures from senior staff.
In all these diverse environments, the core meaning remains consistent: knowledge or skill is being passed down from someone who knows to someone who does not. By paying attention to these contexts, learners can not only improve their listening comprehension but also gain valuable insights into the social dynamics and cultural priorities of Japanese society, where the pursuit of learning under guidance is a respected and lifelong endeavor.

先輩に仕事のやり方をならう。

Recognizing narau in the wild is a clear sign of engaging with authentic Japanese life.
When acquiring the Japanese verb narau (習う), learners frequently encounter a few specific pitfalls, primarily stemming from the direct translation of the English word 'to learn.' Because English uses 'learn' as a catch-all term for various types of knowledge acquisition, students often overextend the use of narau in Japanese, leading to sentences that sound unnatural or confusing to native speakers.
Mistake 1
Using narau for self-study.
The most prevalent mistake is using narau when referring to self-study or academic learning that does not involve a teacher. For example, a student might say, 'Kinou, toshokan de rekishi o naraimashita' (Yesterday, I learned history at the library), intending to mean they studied history.

❌ 自分で漢字をならう。

However, because narau requires an instructor, this sentence sounds bizarre, as if the library itself or a hidden teacher was giving them a lesson. The correct verb in this context is benkyou suru (勉強する) or manabu (学ぶ). 'Kinou, toshokan de rekishi o benkyou shimashita' is the natural way to express this. Another common error involves the confusion between narau and shiru (知る) or oboeru (覚える). Learners sometimes use narau when they mean 'to find out' or 'to memorize.' For instance, if someone wants to say 'I learned that the meeting was canceled,' they might incorrectly say, 'Kaigi ga chuushi ni natta koto o naraimashita.'

❌ ニュースで事実をならう。

This is incorrect because no one gave them a structured lesson on the meeting's cancellation. The correct verb is shiru (to know/find out): 'Kaigi ga chuushi ni natta koto o shirimashita.' Similarly, if a student wants to say 'I learned ten new words today' in the sense of memorizing them, using narau ('Kyou, atarashii tango o jukko naraimashita') implies a teacher taught them those specific ten words in a lesson.
Mistake 2
Confusing narau with memorization (oboeru).
If the student simply memorized them from a flashcard app, oboeru (覚える) is the correct choice: 'Kyou, atarashii tango o jukko oboemashita.' Furthermore, learners often struggle with the appropriate particle to indicate the teacher. While 'ni' (に) and 'kara' (から) are both acceptable, beginners sometimes mistakenly use 'de' (で), confusing the teacher with the location of the action.

❌ 先生でピアノをならう。

Saying 'Sensei de piano o narau' is grammatically incorrect; it must be 'Sensei ni (or kara) piano o narau.' Another subtle mistake is failing to use the continuous form (te iru) when discussing ongoing lessons. A learner might say, 'Watashi wa maishuu piano o narau' (I learn piano every week). While grammatically permissible as a statement of habitual future action, it is much more natural and common to say 'Watashi wa maishuu piano o naratte imasu' to emphasize the ongoing state of being a student.

⭕ 先生にピアノをならっています。

Finally, learners sometimes use narau for highly abstract or philosophical concepts where manabu (学ぶ) would be more appropriate. You 'manabu' from your mistakes or from life experiences, you do not 'narau' from them, because life is not a formal instructor giving you a structured lesson.
Mistake 3
Using narau for life lessons.
By being mindful of these distinctions—requiring a teacher, distinguishing from memorization or finding out, using correct particles, and applying the continuous form appropriately—students can avoid these common pitfalls and use narau with the precision and naturalness of a native speaker.

❌ 失敗からならう。(Use 学ぶ instead)

Mastery of this verb significantly improves the clarity of one's Japanese.
To truly master the verb narau (習う), it is essential to understand its relationship with several similar words in the Japanese lexicon that also relate to learning, studying, and acquiring knowledge. The most prominent of these are benkyou suru (勉強する), manabu (学ぶ), and oboeru (覚える). While an English speaker might translate all of these as 'to learn' or 'to study,' Japanese native speakers draw clear distinctions based on the method, context, and depth of the knowledge acquisition.
Benkyou suru
Academic, often self-directed study.
Benkyou suru is perhaps the most common word for 'to study.' It implies academic effort, hitting the books, and intellectual labor. You benkyou math, science, and history. It does not require a teacher; you can benkyou alone in your room.

図書館で勉強する。

Narau, as we have established, strictly requires a teacher and is usually for skills rather than pure academics. If you say you are 'narau-ing' English, it means you are taking an English class from a teacher. If you say you are 'benkyou suru-ing' English, it could mean you are doing grammar exercises by yourself. Next is manabu (学ぶ). Manabu is a broader, more formal, and somewhat more profound word than narau. It encompasses both academic study and learning from experience. You can manabu from a teacher, from a book, or from your own mistakes.

経験から多くを学ぶ。

It often implies a deeper internalization of knowledge or a philosophical approach to learning. While you 'narau' how to physically play the piano, you might 'manabu' the history of classical music or the discipline required to be a musician. Manabu is frequently used in academic contexts, such as 'Daigaku de keizaigaku o manabu' (To study economics at university).
Manabu
Deep, broad learning, including life lessons.
Narau is more practical and procedural. Then there is oboeru (覚える), which translates to 'to memorize' or 'to remember.' This is about the cognitive act of retaining information.

新しい単語を覚える。

You might 'narau' a new grammar point from your teacher, and then you must 'oboeru' it so you don't forget it for the test. Oboeru is the result of study or practice; narau is the process of being instructed. Another related term is mi ni tsukeru (身につける), which literally means 'to attach to one's body' but translates as 'to acquire a skill' or 'to master.' This represents the ultimate goal of narau. You take lessons (narau) so that you can eventually acquire the skill (mi ni tsukeru).

英語を身につける。

There is also the word kyouiku (教育), meaning education, which is the broader system within which narau takes place. Understanding these synonyms and related terms allows learners to express their educational experiences with incredible precision.
Mi ni tsukeru
To fully master or acquire a skill.
You don't just 'learn' in Japanese; you undergo instruction (narau), you study academically (benkyou suru), you internalize deep lessons (manabu), you memorize facts (oboeru), and you ultimately master skills (mi ni tsukeru).

先生からならったことを復習する。

By carefully selecting the right verb, you demonstrate a sophisticated understanding of Japanese culture and its nuanced perspective on the lifelong journey of acquiring knowledge and self-improvement.

How Formal Is It?

Formell

""

Schwierigkeitsgrad

Wichtige Grammatik

Beispiele nach Niveau

1

私はピアノをならいます。

I learn the piano.

Basic present/future tense with particle 'wo'.

2

日本語をならっています。

I am learning Japanese.

Continuous form 'te imasu' for ongoing action.

3

きのう、ダンスをならいました。

Yesterday, I learned dance.

Past tense 'mashita'.

4

先生にならいます。

I learn from a teacher.

Particle 'ni' indicates the source/teacher.

5

何をならっていますか。

What are you learning?

Question form with 'nani'.

6

水泳をならいたいです。

I want to learn swimming.

Desiderative form 'tai'.

7

学校で歌をならいました。

I learned a song at school.

Particle 'de' for location.

8

ギターをならいません。

I do not learn the guitar.

Negative form 'masen'.

1

母から料理をならいました。

I learned cooking from my mother.

Particle 'kara' used for the source of learning.

2

来年からフランス語をならうつもりです。

I plan to learn French from next year.

Intention form 'tsumori desu'.

3

漢字をならうのは難しいです。

Learning kanji is difficult.

Nominalizer 'no' turns the verb phrase into a noun.

4

子供の時、バイオリンをならっていました。

When I was a child, I was learning the violin.

Past continuous 'te imashita'.

5

新しいスポーツをならいたいです。

I want to learn a new sport.

Adjective modifying the object.

6

山田先生に絵をならっています。

I am learning painting from Yamada-sensei.

Specific name used with particle 'ni'.

7

どこでそれをならいましたか。

Where did you learn that?

Question word 'doko' with particle 'de'.

8

運転をならわなければなりません。

I must learn how to drive.

Obligation form 'nakereba narimasen'.

1

将来のために、プログラミングをならい始めました。

I started learning programming for my future.

Compound verb 'narai-hajimeru' (start learning).

2

独学ではなく、専門の先生にならうべきです。

You should learn from a specialized teacher, not by self-study.

Advice form 'beki desu'.

3

お茶をならうことで、日本の文化が理解できます。

By learning tea ceremony, you can understand Japanese culture.

Nominalizer 'koto' with particle 'de' indicating means.

4

妹はピアノをならわされています。

My younger sister is made to learn the piano.

Causative-passive form 'narawasaserareru'.

5

時間がなくて、ならいに行くことができません。

I don't have time, so I can't go to learn.

Purpose form 'narai ni iku'.

6

先生にならった通りにやってみてください。

Please try doing it exactly as you learned from the teacher.

Noun modification 'naratta toori ni'.

7

もっと早く英語をならっておけばよかったです。

I wish I had learned English earlier.

Regret form 'te okeba yokatta'.

8

どんな習い事をしていますか。

What kind of lessons are you taking?

Noun form 'naraigoto'.

1

日本の伝統芸能をならう若者が減っているそうです。

I hear that the number of young people learning traditional Japanese performing arts is decreasing.

Relative clause modifying 'wakamono' (young people).

2

仕事のやり方は、先輩の背中を見てならうものだ。

The way to do the job is something you learn by watching your seniors.

Idiomatic expression 'senaka o mite narau'.

3

語学をならう上で、継続は力なりです。

When learning a language, continuation is power.

Grammar pattern 'ue de' (in the process of).

4

ただならうだけでなく、自分で考えることが重要だ。

It is important not just to learn, but to think for oneself.

Pattern 'tada... dake de naku' (not only... but also).

5

彼は有名なシェフのもとでフランス料理をならった。

He learned French cuisine under a famous chef.

Expression 'no moto de' (under the guidance of).

6

習うより慣れろということわざがあります。

There is a proverb that says 'Practice makes perfect' (lit. Get used to it rather than learning it).

Proverb usage 'narau yori narero'.

7

子供に何をならわせるか、親はよく悩む。

Parents often worry about what to make their children learn.

Causative form 'narawaseru' in an embedded question.

8

基礎をしっかりならっておかないと、後で苦労しますよ。

If you don't learn the basics thoroughly in advance, you will struggle later.

Preparatory form 'te oku' combined with negative conditional.

1

茶道において、師匠から型をならうことは修行の第一歩に過ぎない。

In tea ceremony, learning the forms from a master is merely the first step of training.

Formal expression 'ni oite' and 'ni suginai'.

2

見様見真似でならった技術では、プロの世界では通用しない。

Skills learned merely by imitation will not pass muster in the professional world.

Idiom 'miyou mimane' (learning by imitation).

3

生涯学習の観点から、定年後に新しいことをならい始める人が増えている。

From the perspective of lifelong learning, an increasing number of people are starting to learn new things after retirement.

Academic phrasing 'no kanten kara'.

4

その職人は、長年培った技術を弟子にならわせることに情熱を注いだ。

The craftsman poured his passion into making his apprentice learn the techniques cultivated over many years.

Complex sentence with causative 'narawaseru'.

5

AIが普及する現代において、人間が何をならうべきかが改めて問われている。

In the modern era where AI is widespread, what humans should learn is being questioned anew.

Passive voice 'towarete iru' with embedded question.

6

彼は独学で言語を習得したが、やはり発音はネイティブにならうべきだったと後悔している。

He acquired the language through self-study, but regrets that he should have learned pronunciation from a native speaker after all.

Contrastive structure with 'beki datta'.

7

伝統工芸の継承には、単に技術をならうだけでなく、その精神性をも受け継ぐ必要がある。

To pass down traditional crafts, it is necessary not only to learn the techniques but also to inherit the spirituality behind them.

Formal structure 'tanni... dake de naku'.

8

師の教えを忠実にならう「守」の段階を経て、初めて独自の境地が開ける。

Only after passing through the 'Shu' stage of faithfully learning the master's teachings can one open up their own unique frontier.

Cultural concept 'Shu-Ha-Ri' integrated into the sentence.

1

徒弟制度の下で厳格に技術をならい覚えるという古き良き習慣は、現代社会ではもはや風前の灯火である。

The good old custom of strictly learning and mastering skills under an apprenticeship system is now a flickering flame in modern society.

Highly literary vocabulary 'toteiseido', 'fuuzen no tomoshibi'.

2

先人の知恵をならうことは温故知新の精神そのものであり、決して単なる模倣に堕してはならない。

Learning the wisdom of our predecessors is the very spirit of 'learning from the past', and must never degenerate into mere imitation.

Yojijukugo 'onkochishin' and formal verb 'dasuru'.

3

彼女のピアノの演奏は、誰かにならったというより、天賦の才が自然に発露したかのように響いた。

Her piano performance sounded less like something she had learned from someone, and more like the natural manifestation of innate genius.

Comparison structure 'to iu yori' and literary vocabulary 'tenpu no sai'.

4

型をならう過程で生じる身体的な違和感こそが、新たな身体知を獲得するための重要な契機となる。

The physical discomfort that arises in the process of learning forms is precisely the important catalyst for acquiring new somatic knowledge.

Academic/philosophical terminology 'shintaitikina iwakan', 'keiki'.

5

情報が氾濫する現代においては、何をならうかよりも、何をならわないかを選択する眼力が求められる。

In today's age of information overflow, the discernment to choose what *not* to learn is required more than what to learn.

Parallel structure 'nani o narau ka yori mo, nani o narawanai ka'.

6

師の技を盗むようにしてならうのが、かつての職人の世界における不文律であった。

Learning by 'stealing' the master's techniques was the unwritten rule in the world of craftsmen in the past.

Metaphorical usage 'waza o nusumu you ni shite narau'.

7

表面的な知識をならい覚えたところで、実社会の複雑な問題に対処できるわけではない。

Even if one learns and memorizes superficial knowledge, it does not mean they can deal with the complex problems of the real world.

Concessive form 'ta tokoro de' and partial negation 'wake de wa nai'.

8

芸道において「ならう」とは、自己を滅却し、師という絶対的な他者を受け入れるという過酷な精神的営為である。

In traditional arts, 'to learn' is a rigorous spiritual endeavor of obliterating the self and accepting the absolute 'other' that is the master.

Highly philosophical definition using 'to wa' and 'seishinteki eiwi'.

Häufige Kollokationen

ピアノを習う (learn piano)
日本語を習う (learn Japanese)
先生に習う (learn from a teacher)
水泳を習う (learn swimming)
習い事 (lessons/extracurriculars)
習い始める (start learning)
習いに行く (go to learn)
見様見真似で習う (learn by imitation)
基礎を習う (learn the basics)
技術を習う (learn a technique)

Häufige Phrasen

習うより慣れろ (Practice makes perfect)

先生に習う (Learn from a teacher)

ピアノを習っている (Taking piano lessons)

習い事を始める (Start taking lessons)

見よう見まねで習う (Learn by watching and imitating)

手取り足取り習う (Learn step-by-step from someone)

基礎から習う (Learn from the basics)

独学ではなく習う (Learn rather than self-study)

一生習う (Learn for a lifetime)

習ったことを復習する (Review what was learned)

Wird oft verwechselt mit

ならう vs 勉強する (benkyou suru) - to study academically, often alone.

ならう vs 学ぶ (manabu) - to learn deeply, broadly, or from experience.

ならう vs 覚える (oboeru) - to memorize or remember.

Redewendungen & Ausdrücke

""

""

""

""

""

""

""

""

""

""

Leicht verwechselbar

ならう vs 勉強する

ならう vs 学ぶ

ならう vs 知る

ならう vs 覚える

ならう vs 教わる

Satzmuster

So verwendest du es

nuance

Narau strongly implies a practical, procedural skill taught by a human instructor.

formality

Narau is standard politeness; in highly formal business contexts, words like 'kyouju sareru' or 'shuutoku suru' might be preferred.

colloquialism

Naraigoto is the standard term for kids' after-school classes.

Häufige Fehler
  • Using 'narau' for self-study instead of 'benkyou suru'.
  • Using the particle 'de' instead of 'ni' or 'kara' for the teacher.
  • Using the simple present 'narau' instead of 'naratte imasu' for ongoing hobbies.
  • Confusing 'narau' (to take lessons) with 'oboeru' (to memorize).
  • Using 'narau' to mean 'learning from experience' instead of 'manabu'.

Tipps

Always Need a Teacher

Never use 'narau' if you are studying alone. It requires an instructor. If you are self-studying, use 'benkyou suru'. This is the most common mistake beginners make. Think of 'narau' as 'taking lessons'.

Use Continuous Tense

When talking about your current hobbies or classes, use 'naratte imasu'. Using the simple present 'narau' sounds like you will start learning in the future. 'Naratte imasu' shows it's an ongoing habit. It's the most natural way to answer 'What are your hobbies?'

Ni or Kara for Teachers

Use the particle 'ni' or 'kara' to mark the person teaching you. For example, 'Sensei ni narau'. Do not use 'de', as 'de' marks the location where the learning happens. 'Gakkou de sensei ni narau' (Learn from a teacher at school) uses both correctly.

Pair with Skills

Use 'narau' with physical skills, arts, and sports. Words like piano, swimming, dance, and tea ceremony are perfect matches. Avoid using it for abstract academic subjects like advanced physics, unless a tutor is teaching you a specific method. It's about procedural knowledge.

The Weight of Narau

Understand that 'narau' carries cultural weight in Japan. It implies respect for the teacher and a commitment to practice. It's tied to the traditional 'iemoto' system of apprenticeship. Using it shows you understand the mentor-mentee dynamic.

Narau vs. Oboeru

Don't confuse 'narau' (to take lessons) with 'oboeru' (to memorize). You 'narau' a grammar point from your teacher. Then you 'oboeru' it for the test. They represent different stages of the learning process.

Use Naraigoto

Learn the noun 'naraigoto' (習い事). It means 'extracurricular lessons' or 'classes'. It's incredibly common when talking about children's schedules or adult hobbies. 'Naraigoto wa nani o shite imasu ka?' is a great conversation starter.

Practice Makes Perfect

Memorize the proverb 'Narau yori narero'. It means 'Practice makes perfect'. It's a very common phrase that native speakers use frequently. Using it will make your Japanese sound very natural and fluent.

Remember the Bird

To remember the kanji 習, think of the top part (羽) as a bird's wings. The kanji originally meant a baby bird practicing flying. This visual helps you remember both the writing and the meaning of repetitive practice.

Listen for the Passive

In conversations about childhood, listen for the causative-passive form 'narawasaserareta' (was made to learn). Many Japanese adults use this to talk about piano or cram school lessons their parents forced them to take. It's a common cultural shared experience.

Einprägen

Eselsbrücke

Imagine a bird with white (白) feathers (羽) taking flying lessons from a teacher bird. It has to NARAU (learn) to fly now (na-rau).

Wortherkunft

From Old Japanese. The kanji 習 combines 羽 (feathers/wings) and 白 (white/clear, acting as a phonetic marker and implying repetition).

Kultureller Kontext

Using 'narau' acknowledges the teacher's expertise and the student's humility.

Extracurricular lessons (naraigoto) are a massive part of childhood in Japan, with many kids attending multiple classes a week (swimming, piano, abacus).

Adults also frequently engage in 'narau' through culture centers (karucha sentaa) to learn hobbies like pottery or foreign languages.

Im Alltag üben

Kontexte aus dem Alltag

Gesprächseinstiege

"子供の時、何か習い事をしていましたか？ (Did you take any lessons when you were a child?)"

"今、新しく習いたいことはありますか？ (Is there anything new you want to learn now?)"

"日本語は誰に習いましたか？ (Who did you learn Japanese from?)"

"独学ですか、それとも誰かに習いましたか？ (Did you teach yourself, or did you learn from someone?)"

"習い事を続けるコツは何だと思いますか？ (What do you think is the secret to continuing lessons?)"

Tagebuch-Impulse

Write about a skill you learned from a teacher in the past.

Describe a new hobby you would like to 'narau' and why.

Compare something you learned by yourself (benkyou) with something you learned from a teacher (narau).

Write about the best teacher you ever had and what you learned from them.

Discuss the proverb 'Narau yori narero' (Practice makes perfect) and whether you agree with it.

Häufig gestellte Fragen

10 Fragen

No, 'narau' strictly requires a teacher or instructor. If you are studying alone with a book or app, you should use 'benkyou suru' or 'dokugaku suru' (self-study). Using 'narau' for self-study sounds unnatural to native speakers. It implies someone is actively guiding you. Always associate 'narau' with a mentor.

'Narau' is practical and requires a teacher, like learning piano or swimming. 'Manabu' is broader, more academic, and can include learning from experience or life itself. You can 'manabu' from your mistakes, but you cannot 'narau' from them. 'Manabu' often implies a deeper internalization of knowledge. 'Narau' is about acquiring a specific skill.

In Japanese, the continuous form 'te imasu' is used to describe an ongoing state or habit. If you are currently enrolled in a class and taking lessons regularly, it is an ongoing action. Saying 'naraimasu' sounds like a future intention ('I will learn'). Therefore, 'naratte imasu' accurately reflects that you are currently a student of that skill. It shows an ongoing commitment.

Yes, absolutely. If you are taking a language class with a teacher, you can say 'Nihongo o naratte imasu' (I am learning Japanese). However, if you are just studying grammar books at home by yourself, 'benkyou suru' is more appropriate. The key is whether there is an instructor involved. Languages are considered skills that can be taught.

You can use either 'ni' (に) or 'kara' (から) to indicate the teacher. For example, 'Sensei ni narau' or 'Sensei kara narau'. Both are correct and widely used. 'Kara' slightly emphasizes the transfer of knowledge from the source to you. 'Ni' simply marks the target/source of the interaction. Never use 'de' for the teacher.

'Naraigoto' (習い事) is a noun that refers to extracurricular lessons or classes. It is very commonly used for children's after-school activities like piano, swimming, or abacus. Adults can also have 'naraigoto', such as cooking classes or yoga. It literally translates to 'things to learn'. It's a massive part of Japanese culture.

You use the desiderative form of the verb, which is 'naraitai' (習いたい). For example, 'Piano o naraitai desu' means 'I want to learn the piano'. You can also add 'to omoimasu' to make it softer: 'Piano o naraitai to omoimasu' (I think I want to learn the piano). This is a great phrase for expressing your interests.

Yes, but usually when a junior employee is learning a specific procedure or skill from a senior employee. For example, 'Senpai ni shigoto no yarikata o narau' (To learn how to do the job from a senior). For formal corporate training, words like 'kenshuu' (training) or 'shuutoku suru' (to acquire) might be used instead. 'Narau' retains its mentor-mentee nuance.

The kanji is 習. It is composed of the radical for feathers/wings (羽) on top and the character for white (白) on the bottom. The etymology represents a young bird repeatedly practicing how to fly. This perfectly captures the essence of 'narau': repetitive practice to master a skill. Remembering this bird imagery helps with memorization.

It translates literally to 'Rather than learning, get used to it'. The English equivalent is 'Practice makes perfect' or 'Experience is the best teacher'. It means that physically doing something and getting accustomed to it is more effective than just receiving theoretical instruction. It highlights the importance of hands-on experience over mere lessons.

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