Use 'shimaru' when the door closes by itself or you focus on the state of it being closed.
Word in 30 Seconds
- Used for doors, windows, and lids closing automatically.
- Functions as an intransitive verb focusing on the result.
- Pairs with 'ga' particle to mark the subject.
使用パターン
基本的な文型は「[名詞]が閉まる」です。誰かが閉める動作に注目する他動詞「閉める」と対照的で、この動詞は結果や状態の変化に重きを置いています。例えば「ドアが閉まる」と言うと、ドアが勝手に、あるいは機械的に閉まる様子を伝えます。
類似語との比較
「閉まる」は自動詞ですが、「閉める」は他動詞です。例えば「窓を閉める」は「私が窓を閉じる」という動作を強調しますが、「窓が閉まる」は「窓が閉じた状態になった」という変化を客観的に描写します。また、「閉じる」は本や目などを閉じる際にも使われますが、「閉まる」は主に物理的な扉や開口部に限定されます。
Examples
ドアが閉まります。
everydayThe door is closing.
自動的に窓が閉まりました。
formalThe window closed automatically.
引き出しがちゃんと閉まらない。
informalThe drawer isn't closing properly.
シャッターが閉まる時刻です。
academicIt is time for the shutters to close.
Common Collocations
Common Phrases
ドアが閉まります
The doors are closing.
閉まる音
Sound of closing.
ちゃんと閉まる
Closes properly.
Often Confused With
This is the transitive version. Use this when a person performs the action of closing something.
Used for non-physical things like books, eyes, or meetings. 'Shimaru' is strictly for doors/openings.
Grammar Patterns
How to Use It
Usage Notes
Use 'shimaru' when focusing on the result of the action. It is an intransitive verb, so it always pairs with 'ga'. In formal settings, use the polite form 'shimarimasu'.
Common Mistakes
Learners often use 'o' instead of 'ga' with 'shimaru'. Remember that 'o' is for transitive verbs like 'shimeru'. Also, do not use it for things like 'closing a meeting' (use 'tojiru').
Tips
Focus on the subject
Remember that 'shimaru' takes the particle 'ga'. It describes the state of the door, not the person closing it.
Do not use for people
Never use 'shimaru' to describe a person closing something. Always use the transitive 'shimeru' for human actions.
Train announcements
You will hear 'doa ga shimarimasu' constantly on Japanese trains. It is a vital phrase for safety.
Word Origin
Derived from the verb 'shimeru' (to close). It represents the state of being shut.
Cultural Context
In Japan, train doors close with a chime to ensure safety. This is a daily reminder of the word 'shimaru' for everyone living in Japan.
Memory Tip
Think of a 'door' that 'shimmers' as it 'shuts' itself. 'Shimaru' sounds like 'shimmer' and means the door closes.
Frequently Asked Questions
4 questions「閉まる」は自動詞で、ドアが勝手に閉まるような状況で使います。「閉める」は他動詞で、人が意識的にドアを閉じる動作を指します。
ドア、窓、引き出し、蓋、シャッターなど、開閉可能な物理的なものに使われます。抽象的な概念にはあまり使いません。
「閉まりました」となります。ドアが既に閉まった状態であることを報告する際に使います。
「ドアが閉まりますので、ご注意ください」というアナウンスが典型的です。日常会話では「閉まります」で十分丁寧です。
Test Yourself
電車＿ドアが閉まります。
「電車のドア」という名詞の修飾関係です。
風で窓が＿＿＿。
自動詞の過去形が適切です。
（閉まる / ドア / が / ゆっくり）
主語＋副詞＋動詞の語順が自然です。
Score: /3
Summary
Use 'shimaru' when the door closes by itself or you focus on the state of it being closed.
- Used for doors, windows, and lids closing automatically.
- Functions as an intransitive verb focusing on the result.
- Pairs with 'ga' particle to mark the subject.
Focus on the subject
Remember that 'shimaru' takes the particle 'ga'. It describes the state of the door, not the person closing it.
Do not use for people
Never use 'shimaru' to describe a person closing something. Always use the transitive 'shimeru' for human actions.
Train announcements
You will hear 'doa ga shimarimasu' constantly on Japanese trains. It is a vital phrase for safety.
Examples
4 of 4ドアが閉まります。
The door is closing.
自動的に窓が閉まりました。
The window closed automatically.
引き出しがちゃんと閉まらない。
The drawer isn't closing properly.
シャッターが閉まる時刻です。
It is time for the shutters to close.
Related Content
This Word in Other Languages
Related Grammar Rules
Related Vocabulary
More general words
能力
A1Nouryoku refers to the mental or physical power, skill, or capacity required to perform a specific task or function. It can describe both innate talent and skills acquired through learning and practice.
異常
A1A word used to describe something that deviates from the normal state, standard, or expected pattern. It often implies a problem, malfunction, or an extraordinary occurrence that requires attention or investigation.
～について
A2About, concerning; indicates topic.
〜について
B1About, concerning; on the subject of.
～ぐらい
A2about, approximately
ぐらい
A2About; approximately; to the extent of.
ごろ
A2About, approximately (time).
うえ
A2At a higher position than.
絶対
B1Absolutely; definitely; never.
絶対に
B1Absolutely; definitely.
