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A2 verb #1,800 가장 일반적인 12분 분량

疲れる

tsukareru 상위 1,800

At the A1 level, learners are introduced to 'tsukareru' primarily as a set phrase in its past tense form: 'tsukareta' (casual) or 'tsukaremashita' (polite). The focus is entirely on rote memorization of this specific form to express the immediate personal feeling of 'I am tired.' Beginners are taught that unlike English, where 'tired' is an adjective, Japanese uses a verb. Therefore, saying 'I am tired' requires the past tense because the action of getting tired has already happened. At this stage, complex grammar is avoided. Learners practice simple statements related to daily routines, such as coming home from school or work and stating their physical state. They also learn to ask simple questions like 'Tsukaremashita ka?' (Are you tired?). The primary goal is basic communication of physical needs, allowing the learner to express when they need to rest or stop an activity. Vocabulary lists at this level will pair 'tsukareta' with basic time words like 'kyou' (today) or 'kinou' (yesterday), enabling sentences like 'Kyou wa tsukaremashita' (I am tired today). Understanding this fundamental difference between English adjectives and Japanese state-change verbs lays the groundwork for future grammatical concepts.

At the A2 level, the understanding of 'tsukareru' expands significantly as learners begin to connect sentences and express reasons. The most critical addition at this stage is the use of the particle 'de' (で) to indicate the cause of the fatigue. Learners practice constructing sentences like 'Shigoto de tsukaremashita' (I am tired from work) or 'Kaimono de tsukareta' (I am tired from shopping). This allows for much more descriptive and conversational language. Additionally, A2 learners are introduced to the te-form of the verb, 'tsukarete,' which is used to connect clauses, such as 'Tsukarete, nemashita' (I was tired and went to sleep). They also learn the progressive state 'tsukarete imasu' (I am currently in a state of being tired), which is technically more accurate for ongoing fatigue than the simple past tense, though both are used. The negative forms 'tsukaremasen' and 'tsukarenai' are also practiced, allowing learners to boast about their stamina or reassure others. The focus remains on physical exhaustion related to everyday activities, travel, and basic work or school scenarios, providing a robust toolkit for daily interaction.

At the B1 level, the usage of 'tsukareru' transitions from purely physical exhaustion to encompassing mental and emotional fatigue. Learners are introduced to the concept of 'kigatsukareru' (気疲れする), which means to be mentally exhausted from worrying, paying attention to others, or navigating complex social situations. This is a crucial cultural concept in Japan. The particle 'ni' (に) is introduced to mark the source of psychological burden, as in 'Ningen kankei ni tsukareru' (to be tired of interpersonal relationships). Furthermore, B1 learners begin using 'tsukareru' as a noun modifier in the past tense, creating phrases like 'tsukareta kao' (a tired face) or 'tsukareta koe' (a tired voice). This attributive usage is essential for descriptive storytelling and expressing observations about others. The nominalized form 'tsukare' (疲れ) is also introduced, allowing learners to treat fatigue as a noun object in sentences like 'Tsukare ga tamaru' (fatigue accumulates) or 'Tsukare wo toru' (to relieve fatigue). This level marks a significant step towards native-like fluency, as learners can now articulate nuanced internal states and observe the physical manifestations of fatigue in others.

At the B2 level, learners encounter 'tsukareru' within more complex grammatical structures and compound verbs. A major focus is the mastery of 'tsukarehateru' (疲れ果てる), meaning to be completely and utterly exhausted, which adds dramatic flair and precise degree to their expressions. Learners also practice using 'tsukareru' with auxiliary verbs, such as 'tsukarete kuru' (to gradually become tired over time) or 'tsukarete shimau' (to end up getting tired, implying regret or unavoidable consequence). The discourse at this level involves discussing the societal implications of fatigue, such as overwork (karoushi) and work-life balance, requiring the use of 'tsukareru' in abstract and generalized contexts rather than just personal feelings. Idiomatic expressions and adverbs of degree (e.g., 'kuta kuta ni tsukareru', 'heto heto ni naru') are integrated to enhance descriptive power. B2 learners are expected to seamlessly switch between the verb form and the noun form ('hirou' 疲労) depending on the formality of the situation, demonstrating a high level of sociolinguistic competence and vocabulary control.

At the C1 level, the focus shifts to the sociolinguistic and pragmatic mastery of 'tsukareru' and its derivatives, particularly the ubiquitous phrase 'Otsukaresama desu' (お疲れ様です). While introduced early on, C1 learners must understand the intricate rules governing its usage: when to use the past tense 'deshita' versus present 'desu', hierarchical constraints (never using 'gokurousama' to a superior), and its function as a greeting, a parting phrase, and a general expression of solidarity in the workplace. Furthermore, C1 learners engage with advanced idiomatic usages and literary expressions. They explore the metaphorical applications of fatigue, such as 'seiji ni tsukareru' (voter fatigue / tired of politics) or 'katsuji banare' related to reading fatigue. The ability to express subtle psychological states using nuanced vocabulary like 'shinshin tomo ni tsukarekiru' (to be completely exhausted in both mind and body) is expected. At this level, 'tsukareru' is not just a word to describe a physical state, but a cultural keyword used to navigate complex social interactions, show empathy, and participate in high-level discussions about societal well-being.

At the C2 level, the comprehension and application of 'tsukareru' reach near-native proficiency, encompassing literary, academic, and highly abstract contexts. Learners at this stage can analyze the etymological roots of the kanji 疲 and understand its historical usage in classical Japanese literature. They can effortlessly deploy highly specialized terminology related to fatigue, such as 'manseiteki hirou shoukougun' (chronic fatigue syndrome) or 'kin hirou' (muscle fatigue), in professional or academic discourse. The usage of 'tsukareru' at this level is characterized by extreme precision and the ability to manipulate the word for rhetorical effect in writing and public speaking. C2 users understand the subtle differences between 'tsukareru', 'kutabireru', 'hebaru', and 'ba-teru' without hesitation, choosing the exact word that fits the regional dialect, the specific demographic of the speaker, and the exact shade of exhaustion being portrayed. They can read and produce complex literary texts where fatigue is used as a central motif for existential dread, societal decay, or profound spiritual weariness, demonstrating absolute mastery over the linguistic and cultural dimensions of the concept.

연습하기 예시 노트와 팁

疲れる 30초 만에

Means 'to get tired' or 'to become exhausted'.
Use past tense 'tsukareta' for 'I am tired'.
Particle 'de' for physical, 'ni' for mental cause.
Base of the greeting 'Otsukaresama desu'.

The Japanese verb 'tsukareru' (疲れる) is an absolutely essential vocabulary item for any learner of the Japanese language, representing the universal human experience of becoming tired, exhausted, or fatigued. When we examine the linguistic properties of this verb, we uncover a fascinating intersection of morphology, syntax, and cultural expression that provides deep insights into how the Japanese language conceptualizes physical and mental states. To begin with, it is crucial to understand that unlike the English word 'tired,' which functions primarily as an adjective describing a state of being, 'tsukareru' is an intransitive verb that describes the active process or action of losing energy and becoming fatigued. This fundamental grammatical distinction is the source of much confusion for beginners, but mastering it unlocks a much more natural and native-like mode of expression. Because it is a change-of-state verb, expressing the current state of being tired requires the use of the past tense form 'tsukareta' or the progressive state form 'tsukarete iru.' This indicates that the process of becoming tired has already taken place, resulting in the current state of exhaustion.

Morphological Breakdown: The word consists of the kanji 疲 (tsuka), which contains the 'yamai-dare' (illness) radical, indicating a connection to physical ailments or weakness, combined with the hiragana 'reru', marking it as an Ichidan verb.

今日は本当に疲れた。

Beyond mere physical exhaustion, 'tsukareru' is incredibly versatile and can be applied to a wide array of situations involving mental, emotional, or psychological drain. For instance, dealing with difficult interpersonal relationships, studying for complex examinations, or simply enduring a long, monotonous commute can all be described using this single, powerful verb.

Physical vs Mental: While physical fatigue is the most direct translation, Japanese speakers frequently use this verb to express mental burnout, social exhaustion, or sensory overload, making it a highly context-dependent term.

人間関係に疲れることが多い。

The cultural context of fatigue in Japan also adds layers of meaning to this word. In a society that historically values hard work, perseverance (gaman), and dedication to one's group or company, expressing fatigue can sometimes be seen as a badge of honor, an indication that one has given their utmost effort. Conversely, it can also be a subtle plea for sympathy or a polite excuse for declining an invitation.

Social Nuance: Admitting you are tired can be a way of showing vulnerability and building rapport with colleagues after a shared difficult task, reinforcing group cohesion.

長時間の会議で疲れた顔をしている。

Furthermore, the verb can be modified by various adverbs to indicate the degree of exhaustion. Words like 'totemo' (very), 'sugoku' (extremely), or 'kanari' (quite) are frequently paired with it.

昨日はとても疲れました。

In summary, 'tsukareru' is not just a simple vocabulary word; it is a dynamic, multifaceted verb that captures the essence of human energy depletion in all its forms. By understanding its grammatical behavior as a change-of-state verb and its broad semantic scope covering both the physical and the psychological, learners can significantly enhance their communicative competence and express their internal states with greater accuracy and cultural appropriateness.

少し休まないと疲れるよ。

Mastering the usage of 'tsukareru' requires a solid understanding of Japanese verb conjugation, particle usage, and sentence structure. Because it is classified as an Ichidan verb (a Group 2 verb or 'ru-verb'), its conjugation patterns are highly regular and predictable, which is excellent news for learners. To conjugate it, you simply drop the final 'ru' and attach the appropriate suffix. The polite present/future form is 'tsukaremasu,' the negative is 'tsukarenai,' the te-form is 'tsukarete,' and the crucial past tense form is 'tsukareta.'

Conjugation Basics: As an Ichidan verb, the stem is 'tsukare-'. You add '-masu' for polite, '-ta' for past, and '-nai' for negative. This makes it one of the easiest verb types to manipulate in Japanese grammar.

毎日残業で疲れます。

One of the most important aspects of using 'tsukareru' correctly is understanding how to mark the cause or source of the fatigue. In Japanese, this is typically done using either the particle 'de' (で) or the particle 'ni' (に), and the choice between the two depends heavily on the nature of the cause.

Particle 'De' (で): The particle 'de' is used when the fatigue is caused by a physical activity, an event, or an action. For example, 'shigoto de tsukareta' (tired from work) or 'undou de tsukareta' (tired from exercise).

昨日のマラソンで疲れた。

On the other hand, the particle 'ni' is often employed when the source of the fatigue is psychological, emotional, or related to a specific target or person that is draining your energy.

Particle 'Ni' (に): The particle 'ni' is used for mental or emotional burdens. For example, 'kikubari ni tsukareta' (tired of being attentive to others) or 'ikuji ni tsukareta' (tired from childcare).

都会の生活に疲れた。

Furthermore, 'tsukareru' can be used to modify nouns by placing the past tense form directly before the noun. A common example is 'tsukareta kao' (a tired face) or 'tsukareta karada' (a tired body). This attributive use is extremely common in descriptive writing and daily conversation.

彼は疲れた声で話した。

Finally, it is worth noting the nominalized form, 'tsukare' (疲れ), which acts as a noun meaning 'fatigue' or 'exhaustion.' This noun form is used in phrases like 'tsukare ga tamaru' (fatigue accumulates) or 'tsukare wo iyasu' (to heal/relieve fatigue). Understanding both the verbal and nominal forms of this root will drastically improve your expressive capabilities in Japanese.

この仕事は本当に疲れる。

The verb 'tsukareru' permeates nearly every facet of Japanese daily life, media, and professional environments, making it an inescapable and vital part of the language. Its prevalence is deeply tied to the rhythms of Japanese society, where diligence, long hours, and social obligations frequently lead to various forms of exhaustion. One of the most prominent environments where you will encounter this concept is the Japanese workplace. While you might not hear the raw verb 'tsukareta' directed at a boss (as it sounds too casual and potentially complaining), the concept is enshrined in the ultimate Japanese greeting and parting phrase: 'Otsukaresama desu' (お疲れ様です).

Workplace Culture: The phrase 'Otsukaresama' literally translates to 'You are a tired person,' but functionally means 'Thank you for your hard work.' It acknowledges the fatigue as a symbol of dedication and effort.

今日も一日、お疲れ様でした。

Beyond the office, 'tsukareru' is ubiquitous in casual conversations among friends, family members, and classmates. It is a standard way to debrief after a long day, a challenging exam, or a strenuous sports practice. In these informal settings, you will frequently hear the plain past tense 'tsukareta!' exclaimed with a heavy sigh as someone collapses onto a sofa.

Casual Exclamations: In anime, manga, and daily life, a drawn-out 'Tsukareta~~' is a common trope used to express dramatic exhaustion after a comedic or difficult ordeal.

あー、もう疲れた！

You will also hear this word frequently in advertisements for health products, energy drinks, massage chairs, and hot springs (onsen). Marketing in Japan heavily targets the 'tsukareta' demographic, promising relief from the daily grind. Phrases like 'tsukare wo fukitobasu' (blow away fatigue) or 'tsukareta karada ni' (for your tired body) are standard copywriting staples.

Health and Wellness: The wellness industry in Japan revolves around the concept of 'iyashi' (healing), which is positioned as the direct antidote to 'tsukare' (fatigue).

疲れに効く温泉に行きたい。

Furthermore, in the realm of sports and physical education, coaches and athletes use 'tsukareru' to discuss stamina, pacing, and physical conditioning. 'Tsukarenai karada' (a body that doesn't get tired) is a common fitness goal.

走るのが速すぎて疲れる。

In conclusion, whether you are navigating the polite formalities of a Tokyo office, watching a slice-of-life anime, or shopping for bath salts at a local pharmacy, 'tsukareru' and its derivatives are words you will encounter constantly. Recognizing the diverse contexts in which it appears will not only improve your listening comprehension but also deepen your understanding of Japanese social dynamics and lifestyle.

気疲れする飲み会だった。

Despite its status as a beginner-level vocabulary word, 'tsukareru' is the source of several persistent and common mistakes among learners of Japanese. These errors typically stem from direct translation from English or a misunderstanding of Japanese verb aspects. The single most frequent mistake is using the present tense 'tsukareru' to mean 'I am tired right now.' In English, 'tired' is an adjective, so 'I am tired' uses the present tense of the 'to be' verb. However, in Japanese, 'tsukareru' is a verb meaning 'to become tired.' Therefore, saying 'Watashi wa tsukareru' translates to 'I will get tired' or 'I generally get tired,' not 'I am currently tired.'

The Tense Trap: To express your current state of exhaustion, you must use the past tense 'tsukareta' (I became tired, therefore I am tired now) or the progressive state 'tsukarete iru' (I am in a state of having become tired).

❌ 今、疲れる。 ⭕️ 今、疲れている。

Another common area of confusion is distinguishing between 'tsukareru' (to be tired) and 'nemui' (to be sleepy). In English, people often say 'I'm tired' when they actually mean 'I need to go to sleep.' In Japanese, these two concepts are strictly separated. If you lack physical energy due to exertion, use 'tsukareta.' If your eyes are closing and you need sleep, use the adjective 'nemui.'

Tired vs Sleepy: Using 'tsukareta' when you just want to go to bed might confuse a Japanese speaker, who might ask what strenuous activity you were doing. Always use 'nemui' for sleepiness.

夜遅いので、眠いです。（Not 疲れる）

A third mistake involves confusing 'tsukareru' with 'akiru' (to get tired of / to lose interest in). In English, we say 'I'm tired of eating pizza every day.' If you translate this directly using 'tsukareru,' it sounds like the physical act of chewing the pizza is exhausting your jaw muscles. To express losing interest or becoming bored with something, you must use 'akiru.'

Tired OF vs Tired FROM: 'Tsukareru' is for physical/mental energy depletion. 'Akiru' is for psychological boredom or loss of interest due to repetition.

このゲームには飽きた。（Not 疲れた）

Finally, learners often use the wrong particle when stating the cause of their fatigue. As mentioned in the usage section, using 'wo' (を) is incorrect because 'tsukareru' is intransitive. You cannot 'tire something' using this verb. You must use 'de' for activities or 'ni' for psychological burdens.

❌ 仕事を疲れた。 ⭕️ 仕事で疲れた。

By avoiding these common pitfalls—mastering the past tense for current states, distinguishing fatigue from sleepiness and boredom, and using the correct particles—you will sound significantly more natural and precise in your Japanese communication.

勉強で頭が疲れた。

The Japanese language possesses a rich and nuanced vocabulary for describing various states of fatigue, exhaustion, and energy depletion. While 'tsukareru' is the most general and widely used term, understanding its synonyms and related words allows for much greater precision and expressiveness. By comparing 'tsukareru' with these similar words, learners can grasp the subtle shades of meaning that native speakers employ to describe exactly how tired they are. One of the most common synonyms is 'kutabireru' (くたびれる).

Kutabireru (くたびれる): This verb implies a deeper, more worn-out type of physical exhaustion. Interestingly, it can also be applied to inanimate objects, like clothes, to mean they are worn out or threadbare. You cannot use 'tsukareru' for clothes.

一日中歩いて、すっかりくたびれた。（Similar to 疲れた）

When you want to express absolute, utter exhaustion where you have zero energy left, the compound verb 'tsukarehateru' (疲れ果てる) is highly effective.

Tsukarehateru (疲れ果てる): Combining 'tsukareru' with 'hateru' (to reach the end/limit), this means to be exhausted to the limit, completely drained, or dead tired.

徹夜の作業で疲れ果てた。

Another fantastic way to express extreme fatigue is through onomatopoeia, which is a cornerstone of expressive Japanese. The word 'hetoheto' (へとへと) is an adverbial noun that perfectly captures the feeling of being physically drained and wobbly.

Hetoheto (へとへと): Often used with 'ni naru' (to become), 'hetoheto ni naru' means to become dead tired. It paints a vivid picture of someone whose legs are giving out from exertion.

山登りでへとへとになった。（More vivid than 疲れた）

For a more formal or medical context, the noun 'hirou' (疲労) is used. This is the Sino-Japanese (kango) equivalent of 'tsukare' and appears in medical diagnoses, news reports, and formal writing. You might see 'hirou kaifuku' (fatigue recovery) on energy drinks.

過労により疲労が蓄積している。（Formal version of 疲れ）

Finally, if you want to express that something is tedious or bothersome, leading to mental fatigue, you might use 'mendoukusai' (面倒くさい). While not a direct synonym for being physically tired, it overlaps with the mental exhaustion aspect of 'tsukareru' when dealing with annoying tasks. By integrating these synonyms—kutabireru, tsukarehateru, hetoheto, and hirou—into your vocabulary, you can elevate your Japanese from basic statements of fatigue to highly descriptive, native-like expressions of your physical and mental state.

今日は色々なことがあって疲れ切った。

How Formal Is It?

난이도

알아야 할 문법

수준별 예문

私は疲れました。

I am tired. (Polite)

Past tense polite form '-mashita' used for current state.

今日は疲れました。

I am tired today.

Topic marker 'wa' with time word 'kyou'.

とても疲れた。

I am very tired. (Casual)

Adverb 'totemo' modifying the casual past tense '-ta'.

疲れましたか？

Are you tired?

Question particle 'ka' added to polite past tense.

少し疲れました。

I am a little tired.

Adverb 'sukoshi' (a little).

疲れていません。

I am not tired.

Negative progressive state '-te imasen'.

もう疲れました。

I am already tired.

Adverb 'mou' (already).

あー、疲れた！

Ah, I'm tired!

Interjection 'aa' with casual past tense.

仕事で疲れました。

I am tired from work.

Particle 'de' indicating cause (work).

たくさん歩いたので、疲れました。

I walked a lot, so I am tired.

Conjunction 'node' (because/so).

疲れたから、寝ます。

I'm tired, so I will sleep.

Conjunction 'kara' (because/so) with casual past.

スポーツをして疲れました。

I played sports and got tired.

Te-form used to connect sequential actions.

毎日忙しくて、疲れます。

I am busy every day and it is tiring.

Te-form of adjective 'isogashii' connecting to present tense verb.

疲れた時は、甘いものを食べます。

When I am tired, I eat sweet things.

Noun modification 'tsukareta toki' (when tired).

買い物をしすぎて疲れました。

I shopped too much and got tired.

Verb stem + 'sugiru' (to do too much).

全然疲れていないよ。

I'm not tired at all.

Adverb 'zenzen' with negative progressive.

人間関係に疲れることが多いです。

I often get tired of interpersonal relationships.

Particle 'ni' for psychological cause; 'koto ga ooi' (often happens).

彼は疲れた顔をしています。

He has a tired face.

Past tense verb modifying a noun 'tsukareta kao'.

最近、疲れがたまりやすいです。

Recently, fatigue accumulates easily.

Noun form 'tsukare' as subject; stem + 'yasui' (easy to).

気疲れする飲み会でした。

It was a drinking party that caused mental fatigue.

Compound noun/verb 'kizukare' (mental fatigue).

長時間のフライトで疲れきった。

I was completely exhausted from the long flight.

Compound verb 'tsukarekiru' (to be completely exhausted).

お風呂に入って疲れをとりましょう。

Let's take a bath and relieve our fatigue.

Noun 'tsukare' with verb 'toru' (to remove/relieve).

目が疲れるので、少し休みます。

My eyes are getting tired, so I will rest a little.

Subject 'me' (eyes) with present tense verb.

疲れているのに、眠れません。

Even though I am tired, I cannot sleep.

Conjunction 'noni' (even though) with potential negative.

プロジェクトが終わって、すっかり疲れ果てた。

The project finished, and I am completely exhausted.

Compound verb 'tsukarehateru' with adverb 'sukkari' (completely).

都会の喧騒に疲れた若者が田舎に移住している。

Young people tired of the hustle and bustle of the city are migrating to the countryside.

Complex noun modification '...ni tsukareta wakamono'.

慢性的な疲れに悩まされている現代人は多い。

Many modern people suffer from chronic fatigue.

Noun 'tsukare' modified by adjective 'manseiteki na' (chronic); passive voice 'nayamasarete iru'.

この作業は神経が疲れる。

This task is mentally exhausting (tires the nerves).

Idiomatic expression 'shinkei ga tsukareru'.

彼の言い訳を聞くのにはもう疲れたよ。

I'm already tired of listening to his excuses.

Nominalizer 'no' with particle 'ni' indicating cause of mental fatigue.

疲労回復には十分な睡眠が不可欠だ。

Adequate sleep is essential for recovering from fatigue.

Formal kango 'hirou' (fatigue) and 'kaifuku' (recovery).

歩き疲れて、一歩も動けない。

I'm so tired from walking that I can't move a single step.

Compound verb 'arukitsukareru' (to get tired from walking).

相手のペースに巻き込まれて気疲れした。

I got mentally exhausted from being dragged into the other person's pace.

Passive voice 'makikomarete' leading to 'kizukare'.

皆様、本日は長丁場の会議、大変お疲れ様でした。

Everyone, thank you very much for your hard work during today's long meeting.

Formal workplace greeting 'otsukaresama deshita' used for a group.

SNSの普及により、情報過多で疲れを感じる人が増大している。

Due to the spread of SNS, an increasing number of people are feeling fatigue from information overload.

Formal written style 'zoudai shite iru'; 'tsukare wo kanjiru' (to feel fatigue).

長年の介護生活で、彼女は心身ともに疲れ切っていた。

After years of providing nursing care, she was completely exhausted in both mind and body.

Idiom 'shinshin tomo ni' (both mind and body) with 'tsukarekiru'.

国民は度重なる政治の不祥事にすっかり疲弊している。

The public is completely exhausted by the repeated political scandals.

Advanced vocabulary 'hihei suru' (to be exhausted/impoverished), a synonym for severe societal fatigue.

気遣いばかりの環境に、どっと疲れが出た。

I suddenly felt a wave of exhaustion from an environment requiring constant consideration of others.

Adverb 'dotto' (suddenly/all at once) with 'tsukare ga deru' (fatigue emerges).

あの人の自慢話にはほとほと疲れる。

I am utterly tired of that person's boasting.

Advanced adverb 'hotohoto' (utterly/to one's wit's end).

蓄積された疲労は、やがて深刻な疾患を引き起こす。

Accumulated fatigue will eventually cause serious illness.

Passive modifier 'chikuseki sareta' (accumulated) with formal 'hirou'.

無理がたたって、ついに過労で倒れてしまった。

The strain took its toll, and he finally collapsed from overwork.

Contextual usage related to extreme fatigue: 'karou' (overwork) and 'taoreru' (collapse).

現代社会を覆う閉塞感は、一種の時代的な疲れと言えるだろう。

The sense of stagnation covering modern society can be called a kind of generational fatigue.

Abstract, philosophical usage 'jidaiteki na tsukare' (generational/era fatigue).

彼の文章からは、人生に対する深い疲労感が滲み出ている。

A profound sense of weariness towards life oozes from his writing.

Literary expression 'hiroukan ga nijimidete iru' (sense of fatigue oozes out).

金属疲労が原因で、その巨大な橋は崩落した。

The massive bridge collapsed due to metal fatigue.

Technical terminology 'kinzoku hirou' (metal fatigue).

終わりの見えない論争に、双方の陣営は徒労感と疲れを募らせていた。

With no end in sight to the dispute, both camps were accumulating a sense of futility and fatigue.

Advanced vocabulary 'toroukan' (sense of futility) and verb 'tsunoraseru' (to accumulate/intensify).

魂がすり減るような、名状しがたい疲れに襲われた。

I was struck by an indescribable fatigue, as if my soul were being worn away.

Highly literary: 'tamashii ga suriheru' (soul wears down), 'meijoushigatai' (indescribable).

権力闘争の末に彼が得たものは、ただ底知れぬ疲労だけであった。

What he gained at the end of the power struggle was nothing but bottomless exhaustion.

Literary phrasing 'sokoshirenu hirou' (bottomless fatigue).

慢性疲労症候群のメカニズム解明に向けて、新たな研究が始まった。

New research has begun toward elucidating the mechanism of chronic fatigue syndrome.

Medical terminology 'mansei hirou shoukougun' (Chronic Fatigue Syndrome).

言葉の裏に隠された、微かな気疲れの兆候を見逃さなかった。

I did not miss the faint signs of mental fatigue hidden behind the words.

Nuanced observation 'kasukana kizukare no choukou' (faint signs of mental fatigue).

자주 쓰는 조합

仕事で疲れる (shigoto de tsukareru - tired from work)

人間関係に疲れる (ningen kankei ni tsukareru - tired of relationships)

歩き疲れる (arukitsukareru - tired from walking)

気疲れする (kizukare suru - to be mentally tired)

疲れがたまる (tsukare ga tamaru - fatigue accumulates)

疲れをとる (tsukare wo toru - to relieve fatigue)

疲れが吹き飛ぶ (tsukare ga fukitobu - fatigue is blown away)

疲れた顔 (tsukareta kao - tired face)

疲れた声 (tsukareta koe - tired voice)

どっと疲れる (dotto tsukareru - to suddenly feel exhausted)

자주 쓰는 구문

お疲れ様です (otsukaresama desu - thank you for your hard work)

あー、疲れた (aa, tsukareta - ah, I'm tired)

疲れました (tsukaremashita - I am tired, polite)

疲れが取れない (tsukare ga torenai - can't get rid of fatigue)

疲れを知らない (tsukare wo shiranai - tireless/knowing no fatigue)

疲れ目 (tsukareme - tired eyes/eyestrain)

夏の疲れ (natsu no tsukare - summer fatigue)

疲れ気味 (tsukaregimi - feeling a little tired)

疲れを癒す (tsukare wo iyasu - to heal fatigue)

疲れ果てた様子 (tsukarehateta yousu - an exhausted appearance)

자주 혼동되는 단어

疲れる vs 眠い (nemui) - Means sleepy, not tired from exertion.

疲れる vs 飽きる (akiru) - Means to get tired of/bored of something, not physical fatigue.

疲れる vs だるい (darui) - Means feeling sluggish or heavy, often used when sick, rather than exhausted from work.

관용어 및 표현

혼동하기 쉬운

疲れる vs

문장 패턴

사용법

note

Remember that 'tsukareru' cannot take a direct object with 'wo' (を). You cannot 'tire someone out' using this verb alone; you would need the causative form 'tsukaresaseru'.

자주 하는 실수

Saying 'Watashi wa tsukareru' to mean 'I am tired now' (Should be 'tsukareta').
Saying 'Tsukareta' when wanting to go to sleep (Should be 'Nemui').
Using 'wo' instead of 'de' (e.g., 'Shigoto wo tsukareta' is wrong).
Saying 'Tsukareru kao' for a tired face (Should be 'Tsukareta kao').
Using 'Tsukareta' to mean bored of a food or game (Should be 'Akita').

팁

The Past Tense Rule

Always remember: Present tense = 'It is tiring'. Past tense = 'I am tired'. This is the golden rule for state-change verbs in Japanese.

Nemui vs Tsukareta

If you are yawning, say 'Nemui'. If your muscles ache, say 'Tsukareta'. Don't mix them up, or people will offer you a bed when you need a massage.

Otsukaresama Magic

When in doubt in a Japanese office, say 'Otsukaresama desu'. It works when arriving, leaving, passing in the hall, or starting an email.

De vs Ni

Physical sweat? Use 'de' (shigoto de). Mental sweat? Use 'ni' (kizukai ni). This simple trick will make your particle usage much more natural.

The Sighing Drop

To sound like a native anime character, drop the end of the word. A long, drawn-out 'Tsukare...' with a sigh conveys more exhaustion than a perfectly polite sentence.

Modifying Nouns

Want to describe a tired face? It must be 'tsukareta kao'. Never use the present tense to modify a noun when describing a current state of fatigue.

Level Up to Hetoheto

Once you master 'tsukareta', start using 'hetoheto' for extreme physical exhaustion. It makes your Japanese sound much more colorful and descriptive.

Don't use Wo

'Tsukareru' is intransitive. You cannot 'wo' it. If you want to say 'I tired him out', you must use the causative form 'tsukaresaseta'.

Listen for the Noun

In TV commercials, listen for 'tsukare' (the noun). You'll hear it constantly in ads for energy drinks and bath products promising 'hirou kaifuku'.

Akiru for Boredom

If you are tired of eating the same food every day, use 'akiru', not 'tsukareru'. 'Tsukareru' means the food is physically exhausting to chew!

암기하기

기억법

Imagine a person who is so TIRED (tsukareru) that they need to take a CAR (tsu-CAR-eru) instead of walking.

어원

The kanji 疲 consists of the 'yamai-dare' radical (疒), which means sickness or disease, and the phonetic component 皮 (hi/kawa), which means skin. Originally, it referred to a state of physical ailment or weakness that manifests on the surface (skin) of the body.

문화적 맥락

Japan has a massive industry dedicated to 'iyashi' (healing) and 'hirou kaifuku' (fatigue recovery), including onsen, massage chairs, and specialized energy drinks.

Never say 'Gokurousama' to a superior; always use 'Otsukaresama desu'.

실생활에서 연습하기

실제 사용 상황

대화 시작하기

"最近、仕事で疲れていませんか？ (Have you been tired from work lately?)"

"疲れた時は、何をしますか？ (What do you do when you are tired?)"

"今日は少し疲れた顔をしていますね。大丈夫ですか？ (You look a little tired today. Are you okay?)"

"長旅、お疲れ様でした。 (Thank you for your hard work on the long journey.)"

"何に一番気疲れしますか？ (What causes you the most mental fatigue?)"

일기 주제

Write about a time you were completely exhausted (疲れ果てた). What caused it?

Describe your favorite way to relieve fatigue (疲れをとる方法).

Write a dialogue between two coworkers using 'Otsukaresama desu'.

List three things that make you mentally tired (気疲れすること).

Explain the difference between 'tsukareta' and 'nemui' in your own words.

자주 묻는 질문

10 질문

In Japanese, 'tsukareru' is a verb that means 'to become tired.' It describes the process of losing energy. Therefore, if you are currently tired, it means the process has already happened. You use the past tense 'tsukareta' to show that you have entered the state of being tired.

Yes, but it means 'it is tiring' or 'I will get tired.' For example, 'Kono shigoto wa tsukareru' means 'This job is tiring.' If you say 'Ashita wa tsukareru,' it means 'I will be tired tomorrow.' It does not mean you are tired right now.

'Tsukareta' means you lack physical or mental energy due to exertion, like after running a marathon or taking a long test. 'Nemui' specifically means you are sleepy and your body needs sleep. In English, we use 'tired' for both, but Japanese strictly separates them.

You should not use 'tsukareru' for this. When you are bored of something or have lost interest due to repetition, use the verb 'akiru' (飽きる). So, 'Piza ni wa akita' means 'I am tired of pizza.'

Literally, it means 'You are a tired person.' However, it is used as a greeting and a parting phrase in the workplace to mean 'Thank you for your hard work.' It acknowledges that the person has worked hard enough to become tired, showing appreciation and solidarity.

You must be very careful. 'Gokurousama' is generally used by a superior speaking to a subordinate. If you use it towards your boss or a client, it is considered rude. 'Otsukaresama desu' is safe to use with anyone, regardless of hierarchy.

Use 'de' (で) for physical activities or events, like 'shigoto de' (from work) or 'undou de' (from exercise). Use 'ni' (に) for mental or emotional burdens, like 'ningen kankei ni' (from relationships). Never use 'wo' (を) because it is an intransitive verb.

'Kizukare' (気疲れ) is a compound noun that means mental fatigue or emotional exhaustion. It specifically refers to the tiredness you feel from worrying, paying attention to others, or being in tense social situations where you have to be highly considerate.

You can use adverbs like 'sukkari' (completely) or 'totemo' (very) with 'tsukareta'. For a stronger expression, use the compound verb 'tsukarehateru' (疲れ果てる), which means to be exhausted to the absolute limit, or the phrase 'hetoheto ni naru'.

'Tsukare' (疲れ) is the noun form, meaning 'fatigue' or 'exhaustion.' 'Tsukareru' (疲れる) is the verb form. You use the noun in phrases like 'tsukare ga tamaru' (fatigue accumulates) or 'tsukare wo toru' (to relieve fatigue).