茂る in 30 Seconds
- 茂る (shigeru): plants grow thickly and densely.
- Describes lush, abundant vegetation, often overgrown.
- Commonly used for gardens, forests, and natural landscapes.
- Implies vitality and rapid spread of plant life.
The Japanese verb 茂る (shigeru) describes a state of abundant, vigorous growth, particularly in plants. It conveys the image of greenery becoming dense, lush, and sometimes even unruly or wild. Think of plants that have grown so much they are practically taking over an area. It's not just about growing, but about growing thickly and abundantly.
This word is frequently used to describe natural environments. For example, you might hear it when talking about a garden that hasn't been tended to in a while, a forest that is full of life, or even weeds that are growing rapidly. It paints a picture of nature thriving and expanding.
Beyond just plants, 茂る can also be used metaphorically, though less commonly. It might describe something that is increasing rapidly or spreading widely, like rumors or even population growth, but the primary and most direct meaning relates to the dense growth of vegetation.
When you encounter 茂る, it's a signal that the scene is one of lushness and vitality. It’s a word that evokes a sense of nature’s power and its tendency to spread and fill spaces when given the chance.
Consider the feeling of walking into an overgrown park or a wild, untamed garden. That sense of being surrounded by dense, abundant plant life is precisely what 茂る captures. It's a visual and sensory word, bringing to mind the rustling of thick leaves and the vibrant green of a thriving ecosystem.
It’s important to distinguish 茂る from simpler verbs like 育つ (sodatsu - to grow). While 育つ simply means to grow, 茂る emphasizes the *thickness* and *abundance* of that growth. A plant can 育つ without necessarily 茂る, but if something is 茂る, it has definitely 育つ.
夏になると、庭の草が勢いよく茂る。
- Usage Context
- Describing gardens, forests, fields, parks, and any area where plants are growing densely.
- Related Concepts
- Lushness, abundance, wildness, overgrowth, thriving nature.
The verb 茂る (shigeru) is typically used in its plain form or in the polite -masu form (茂ります - shigerimasu). It can also be used in its continuous form (茂っている - shigerutte iru) to describe a state of being overgrown.
The subject of the sentence is usually the plant or vegetation that is growing thickly. Particles like が (ga) or は (wa) are used to mark the subject.
Here are some common sentence structures:
- Subject + が/は + 茂る
- This is the most straightforward usage, indicating that the subject is growing thickly. For example, 「庭の草が茂る。」(Niwa no kusa ga shigeru. - The grass in the garden grows thickly.)
- Subject + が/は + 茂っている
- This form emphasizes the ongoing state of being overgrown. 「森は木々が茂っていて、薄暗い。」(Mori wa kigi ga shigerutte ite, usugurai. - The forest is overgrown with trees and is dim.)
- Adjective + 茂る
- You can use adjectives to describe the manner of growth. 「野原に花が鮮やかに茂っている。」(Nohara ni hana ga azayaka ni shigerutte iru. - Flowers are vividly growing thickly in the field.)
- Verb + 茂る (in compound verbs or descriptive phrases)
- It can be part of more complex descriptions. 「手入れをしないと、すぐに木が茂ってしまう。」(Teire o shinai to, sugu ni ki ga shigette shimau. - If you don't take care of it, the trees will quickly become overgrown.)
放置された庭では、雑草が茂る。
You'll frequently encounter 茂る (shigeru) in everyday conversations and media related to nature, gardening, and seasonal changes in Japan. It's a common verb used to describe the vibrant growth of the natural world.
Gardening and Nature Documentaries: When discussing how plants are growing, especially if they are becoming very dense, gardeners might say, 「この夏は雨が多かったせいか、花壇の花がよく茂っているね。」(Kono natsu wa ame ga ookatta sei ka, kadan no hana ga yoku shigerutte iru ne. - Perhaps because there was a lot of rain this summer, the flowers in the flowerbed are growing very thickly.) Nature documentaries showcasing lush forests or overgrown landscapes will also use this word extensively.
Seasonal Descriptions: Japan has distinct seasons, and the verb 茂る is often used to describe the peak of summer's greenery. You might hear, 「梅雨が明けて、山々が緑豊かに茂っている。」(Tsuyu ga akete, yamayama ga midori yutaka ni shigerutte iru. - The rainy season has ended, and the mountains are lushly overgrown with greenery.)
Discussions about Unkempt Areas: If a place is not maintained, plants can grow wild. A neighbor might comment, 「隣の空き地、草が茂ってきて、ちょっと見苦しいね。」(Tonari no aki chi, kusa ga shigerutte kite, chotto migurushii ne. - The vacant lot next door is getting overgrown with grass, it's a bit unsightly.)
Literary and Artistic Descriptions: In novels, poems, or even song lyrics, 茂る is used to create vivid imagery of abundant nature, evoking feelings of vitality, wildness, or even a sense of being enveloped by plants.
Children's Books and Stories: For younger audiences, the concept of plants growing thickly can be a simple and understandable topic, making 茂る a useful word to describe gardens or forests in stories.
Travel and Tourism: When describing scenic spots, especially natural parks or rural areas, travel guides might use 茂る to highlight the lush vegetation and the feeling of being immersed in nature. For instance, 「この川沿いの木々は夏になると鬱蒼と茂ります。」(Kono kawazoi no kigi wa natsu ni naru to ussou to shigerimasu. - The trees along this river grow densely in the summer.)
夏、公園の木々は青々と茂っていた。
Learners might sometimes confuse 茂る (shigeru) with other verbs related to growth or appearance, or misuse its grammatical form. Here are some common pitfalls:
- Confusing with 育つ (sodatsu - to grow)
- While both relate to growth, 育つ is a general term for growing, like a child growing up or a plant developing. 茂る specifically means to grow thickly and abundantly. A plant can 育つ without 茂る, but if it's 茂る, it has certainly 育った. Mistake: 「この花はあまり育ちません。」(Kono hana wa amari sodachimasen. - This flower doesn't grow much.) when you mean it doesn't grow thickly. Correct: 「この花はあまり茂りません。」(Kono hana wa amari shigerimasen. - This flower doesn't grow thickly.)
- Confusing with 生える (haeru - to grow, sprout)
- 生える is often used for the initial sprouting of something, like hair growing or grass appearing. 茂る describes the state after it has already grown and become dense. Mistake: 「庭に草が生えてきました。」(Niwa ni kusa ga haete kimashita.) when you mean the grass has grown very thick. Correct: 「庭の草が茂ってきました。」(Niwa no kusa ga shigerutte kimashita.)
- Using it for non-plant subjects
- While metaphorical uses exist, the primary and most common use of 茂る is for plants. Using it for things like population or abstract concepts without proper context can sound unnatural. Mistake: 「彼の借金が茂った。」(Kare no shakkin ga shigotta. - His debt grew thickly.) This is not a standard usage. Correct: 「彼の借金が膨らんだ。」(Kare no shakkin ga fukuranda. - His debt swelled/increased.)
- Incorrect conjugation or particle usage
- Like any verb, incorrect conjugations or particle choices can lead to misunderstandings. Forgetting the て (te) form when using いる (iru) to describe a state is a common error. Mistake: 「庭の木が茂るいる。」(Niwa no ki ga shigeru iru.) Correct: 「庭の木が茂っている。」(Niwa no ki ga shigerutte iru.)
この植物はあまり育たないが、元気には茂る。
While 茂る (shigeru) is specific, several other Japanese words describe plant growth or abundance, each with its own nuance. Understanding these differences will help you choose the most appropriate word.
- 育つ (sodatsu)
- Meaning: To grow (general term for living things, including plants, animals, and humans).
- Comparison: This is a broader term. A plant can 育つ without necessarily 茂る. For example, a single, well-cared-for rose bush might 育つ beautifully but not 茂る in the sense of becoming a dense thicket.
- Example: 「子供が元気に育っている。」(Kodomo ga genki ni sodatte iru. - The child is growing up healthily.) vs. 「庭の草が茂っている。」(Niwa no kusa ga shigerutte iru. - The grass in the garden is growing thickly.)
- 生える (haeru)
- Meaning: To grow, sprout, appear (often used for initial growth, like hair, teeth, or grass appearing).
- Comparison: 生える is about the emergence of something. 茂る is about the subsequent dense development. Grass might 生える after rain, and then if left unattended, it will 茂る.
- Example: 「新しい髪が生えてきた。」(Atarashii kami ga haete kita. - New hair has started to grow.) vs. 「庭の草が茂りすぎている。」(Niwa no kusa ga shigerisugite iru. - The grass in the garden is too overgrown.)
- 繁る (shigeru) - Note: Same pronunciation, different kanji
- Meaning: To flourish, to thrive, to prosper. Can apply to plants but also to businesses, populations, or cities.
- Comparison: This word implies a more general sense of thriving and abundance, not necessarily limited to the physical density of plants. While plants can 繁る (flourish), 茂る (with the grass kanji) specifically refers to the thick, dense growth of vegetation.
- Example: 「この街は商業で繁っている。」(Kono machi wa shougyou de shigerutte iru. - This town is flourishing with commerce.)
- 鬱蒼 (ussou - adjective/noun)
- Meaning: Dense, luxuriant, thick (used to describe forests or vegetation).
- Comparison: This is an adjective that describes the state of being overgrown. You would say a forest is 鬱蒼としている (ussou to shite iru), meaning it is densely overgrown. 茂る is the verb that leads to this state.
- Example: 「森は鬱蒼と茂っていた。」(Mori wa ussou to shigerutte ita. - The forest was densely overgrown.)
この庭は育った花が茂っている。
How Formal Is It?
Fun Fact
The kanji 茂 (shigeru) is composed of the radical 'grass' (艸, kusa) on top and 'many' (多, ta) on the bottom, visually suggesting that grass or plants are growing in abundance. This kanji is used to represent the concept of dense, thick growth.
Pronunciation Guide
- Pronouncing 'ru' too strongly, like the English 'roo'. It should be a softer, flapped sound.
- Misplacing the stress on the first syllable ('SHI-ge-ru').
- Confusing the 'g' sound with a soft 'j' sound.
Difficulty Rating
CEFR B1 level. The word itself is straightforward, but understanding the nuance of dense growth and distinguishing it from general growth requires some context and exposure. Sentences can become more complex with adverbs and descriptive phrases.
What to Learn Next
Prerequisites
Learn Next
Advanced
Grammar to Know
The 〜ている form to indicate a state.
木が茂っている。(Ki ga shigerutte iru. - The trees are in a state of being thickly grown.)
The 〜てしまう form to indicate completion or unintended result.
手入れをしないと、草が茂りすぎてしまう。(Teire o shinai to, kusa ga shigerisugite shimau. - If you don't tend to it, the grass will become too overgrown.)
Using adverbs to describe the manner of growth.
植物が勢いよく茂る。(Shokubutsu ga ikioi yoku shigeru. - Plants grow vigorously.)
Using 〜放題 to indicate unrestrained growth.
庭の草が茂り放題だ。(Niwa no kusa ga shigeri houdai da. - The garden's grass is growing without restraint.)
Using 〜すぎる to indicate excess.
この低木は茂りすぎている。(Kono teiboku wa shigerisugite iru. - This shrub is too overgrown.)
Examples by Level
庭に草が茂った。
The grass in the garden grew thickly.
Plain past tense of 茂る.
木が茂っています。
The trees are growing thickly.
Continuous tense of 茂る.
草が茂る。
Grass grows thickly.
Plain present tense of 茂る.
花が茂った。
The flowers grew thickly.
Plain past tense of 茂る.
葉が茂る。
Leaves grow thickly.
Plain present tense of 茂る.
夏は茂る。
In summer, it grows thickly.
General statement about summer growth.
庭は茂った。
The garden became overgrown.
Plain past tense of 茂る.
植物が茂る。
Plants grow thickly.
Plain present tense of 茂る.
手入れをしないと、庭の草がすぐに茂ってしまう。
If you don't tend to it, the grass in the garden will quickly become overgrown.
〜てしまう indicates an unintended or completed action.
この木は一年でとても茂りました。
This tree grew very thickly in one year.
〜ました is the polite past tense.
森の中は木々が茂っていて、あまり光が入らない。
Inside the forest, the trees are densely grown, and not much light enters.
〜ていて describes a state.
夏になると、植物は勢いよく茂ります。
When summer arrives, plants grow vigorously.
〜ます is the polite present tense.
放置された庭は、雑草が茂り放題だ。
In an abandoned garden, weeds grow as much as they please.
〜放題 means 'as much as one likes' or 'unrestrainedly'.
この辺りは緑が茂っていて、空気がきれいだ。
This area is lush with greenery, and the air is clean.
〜ていて describes a state.
夏休み中に、裏庭の草がかなり茂った。
During the summer vacation, the grass in the backyard grew considerably.
〜た is the plain past tense.
公園の木々は、夏には葉が茂って日陰を作る。
The trees in the park grow thick with leaves in the summer, creating shade.
〜て creates a cause-and-effect or sequential relationship.
長年手入れされていない庭は、木々や草が鬱蒼と茂っている。
A garden that hasn't been maintained for many years is densely overgrown with trees and grass.
鬱蒼と茂っている (ussou to shigerutte iru) - describes dense, luxuriant growth.
梅雨に入ると、山々の緑が一段と濃くなり、茂ってくる。
As the rainy season begins, the green of the mountains deepens further and grows thicker.
〜てくる indicates a gradual change or emergence.
この植物は日陰でもよく育ち、葉が茂るのが特徴だ。
This plant grows well even in the shade, and its characteristic is that its leaves grow thickly.
〜のが特徴だ (no ga tokuchou da) - 'its characteristic is that...'
放置された畑は、あっという間に雑草が茂り、元の姿を失ってしまう。
In an abandoned field, weeds quickly become overgrown, and it loses its original appearance.
あっという間に (atto iu ma ni) - in the blink of an eye; 〜てしまう indicates completion or regret.
夏の終わりには、田んぼの稲が青々と茂り、収穫の時期を迎える。
By the end of summer, the rice plants in the paddies grow lush and green, heralding the harvest season.
青々と (aoao to) - vividly green; 〜を迎える (o mukaeru) - to greet/welcome.
古い寺の庭園は、手入れが行き届き、苔むした石灯籠の周りの植物が静かに茂っている。
The garden of the old temple is well-maintained, and the plants around the moss-covered stone lanterns grow peacefully.
苔むした (koke mushita) - covered in moss; 静かに (shizuka ni) - peacefully.
この地域は、夏になると川沿いの木々が深く茂り、涼しい風が吹く。
In this region, the trees along the river grow densely in the summer, and a cool breeze blows.
深く茂り (fukaku shigeri) - grows deeply/densely.
庭師は、庭の木が健康に茂るように、定期的に剪定を行っている。
The gardener regularly prunes the garden trees so they grow healthily.
〜ように (you ni) - so that; 剪定 (sentei) - pruning.
都市部でも、公園や街路樹が手入れされずに放置されると、驚くほど草木が茂り、都市の景観を変えてしまうことがある。
Even in urban areas, if parks and street trees are left untended, the vegetation can grow surprisingly thickly, sometimes altering the urban landscape.
〜ずに放置される (zu ni houchi sareru) - to be left unattended; 驚くほど (odoroku hodo) - surprisingly; 景観を変えてしまう (keikan o kaete shimau) - to change the landscape.
熱帯雨林では、一年中雨が多く、植物が極めて密に茂り、固有の生態系を形成している。
In tropical rainforests, rain is abundant year-round, plants grow extremely densely, forming unique ecosystems.
熱帯雨林 (nettaiuurin) - tropical rainforest; 極めて (kiwamete) - extremely; 固有の (koyuu no) - unique/endemic.
この地域特有の植物は、乾燥した気候に適応するため、夏の間は地上部がほとんど枯れ、秋になると根元から再び勢いよく茂り始める。
Plants unique to this region, in order to adapt to the dry climate, their above-ground parts mostly wither during summer, and in autumn, they begin to grow vigorously again from the roots.
〜ため (tame) - in order to; 地上部 (chijoubu) - above-ground part; 〜なくなる (nakunaru) - to cease/disappear; 再び (futatabi) - again.
かつては開墾されていた土地も、過疎化により人がいなくなり、次第に自然に還り、木々が茂る森へと姿を変えていった。
Land that was once cultivated, due to depopulation, people left, and it gradually returned to nature, transforming into a forest where trees grew thickly.
開墾されていた (kaikon sarete ita) - was cultivated; 過疎化 (kasoka) - depopulation; 次第に (shidai ni) - gradually; 自然に還り (shizen ni kaeri) - returned to nature.
庭の手入れを怠ると、一年も経たないうちに、低木が密集して茂り、通路が塞がってしまう。
If you neglect garden maintenance, within less than a year, low bushes will grow densely, blocking the paths.
怠ると (okotaru to) - if neglected; 一年も経たないうちに (ichinen mo tatanai uchi ni) - within even a year; 密集して (misshuu shite) - densely; 通路が塞がってしまう (tsuuro ga fusagatte shimau) - the path becomes blocked.
その植物は、繁殖力が非常に高く、適切な管理をしないと、あっという間に庭全体に茂り、他の植物の生育を妨げる。
That plant has very high reproductive power, and if not managed properly, it will quickly grow throughout the entire garden, hindering the growth of other plants.
繁殖力 (hanshokuryoku) - reproductive power; 妨げる (samatageru) - to hinder/obstruct.
夏場の強い日差しを避けるため、葉が厚く茂る植物は、日陰を作るのに最適である。
To avoid the strong summer sun, plants with thick, dense foliage are ideal for creating shade.
夏場 (natsu-ba) - during the summer; 日差し (hizashi) - sunlight; 最適である (saiteki de aru) - to be optimal/ideal.
この地域では、古くから雨が多く、深い森が茂っており、その豊かな自然が人々の生活を支えてきた。
In this region, it has long rained a lot, and deep forests have grown densely, and this rich nature has supported people's lives.
古くから (furuku kara) - since long ago; 豊かな自然 (yutaka na shizen) - rich nature; 支えてきた (sasaete kita) - has supported.
長雨の影響で、未管理の土地では植物が異常に茂り、生態系のバランスを崩しかねない。
Due to the prolonged rain, vegetation in unmanaged land can grow abnormally thickly, potentially disrupting the ecological balance.
異常に (ijou ni) - abnormally; 崩しかねない (kuzushikanenai) - may potentially disrupt/collapse.
都市部における緑化推進の観点から、建物の屋上や壁面への植物の導入が進められているが、その管理や維持には専門的な知識が不可欠であり、放置すればかえって景観を損なうほど茂ることもある。
From the perspective of promoting greening in urban areas, the introduction of plants onto rooftops and walls is being advanced, but specialized knowledge is essential for their management and maintenance, and if left unattended, they can grow to the extent of actually damaging the landscape.
緑化推進 (ryokka suishin) - promotion of greening; 観点 (kanten) - perspective; 屋上 (okujou) - rooftop; 壁面 (hekimem) - wall surface; 導入 (dounyuu) - introduction; 維持 (iji) - maintenance; 専門的な知識 (senmon-teki na chishiki) - specialized knowledge; 不可欠 (fukaketsu) - essential; かえって (kaette) - on the contrary/rather.
この地域の特異な地形と気候条件が相まって、照葉樹林が密に茂り、多様な動植物の宝庫となっている。
The unique topography and climatic conditions of this region combine to create a dense evergreen broadleaf forest, making it a treasure trove of diverse flora and fauna.
特異な (tokui na) - unique/peculiar; 地形 (chikei) - topography; 気候条件 (kikou jouken) - climatic conditions; 相まって (ai matte) - combining/in conjunction with; 照葉樹林 (shouyoujurin) - evergreen broadleaf forest; 多様な (tayou na) - diverse; 動植物 (dou shokubutsu) - flora and fauna; 宝庫 (houko) - treasure trove.
かつては単なる雑草の生い茂る荒れ地であった場所が、地域住民の長年にわたる努力によって、四季折々の花が咲き乱れる美しい庭園へと生まれ変わった。
A place that was once a wasteland where mere weeds grew rampantly has been transformed through the long-term efforts of local residents into a beautiful garden where flowers bloom profusely in every season.
単なる (tannaru) - mere/simple; 荒れ地 (arechi) - wasteland; 〜であった場所 (de atta basho) - a place that was...; 長年にわたる (naganen ni wataru) - spanning many years; 努力 (doryoku) - effort; 四季折々 (shiki oriori) - every season; 咲き乱れる (sakimidareru) - bloom profusely; 生まれ変わった (umare kawatta) - was reborn/transformed.
地中海性気候の夏は乾燥するが、冬の雨季には草木が驚くほど旺盛に茂り、一年を通じて緑豊かな景観を保つ。
The summers in the Mediterranean climate are dry, but during the winter rainy season, vegetation grows surprisingly vigorously, maintaining a lush green landscape throughout the year.
地中海性気候 (chichuukaisei kikou) - Mediterranean climate; 雨季 (uki) - rainy season; 旺盛に (ousei ni) - vigorously/abundantly; 一年を通じて (ichinen o tsuujite) - throughout the year.
この蔓植物は、その驚異的な繁殖力と成長速度ゆえに、管理が不十分だとあっという間に庭全体を覆い尽くし、他の植物の生存を脅かす存在となる。
Due to its remarkable reproductive power and growth speed, this vine, if not adequately managed, will quickly cover the entire garden, becoming a threat to the survival of other plants.
蔓植物 (tsurushokubutsu) - vine; 驚異的な (kyouiteki na) - astonishing/remarkable; 成長速度 (seichou sokudo) - growth speed; ゆえに (yue ni) - because of/due to; 不十分 (fujuubun) - insufficient; 脅かす存在 (obiyakasu sonzai) - a threatening existence.
古来より、この地の豊穣さは、深い森が茂り、清流が絶えることなく流れる自然の恵みによって支えられてきた。
Since ancient times, the fertility of this land has been supported by the blessings of nature, with deep forests growing densely and clear streams flowing without interruption.
古来より (korai yori) - since ancient times; 豊穣さ (houjou sa) - fertility/abundance; 恵み (megumi) - blessing/grace; 支えられてきた (sasaerarete kita) - has been supported.
都市開発が進むにつれて、かつては広大な緑地であった場所も、コンクリートジャングルへと変貌し、自然の茂る力は抑制されている。
As urban development progresses, places that were once vast green spaces are transforming into concrete jungles, and the power of nature to grow thickly is being suppressed.
〜につれて (ni tsurete) - as/along with; 広大な (koudai na) - vast; 変貌し (henbou shi) - transforming; 抑制されている (yokusei sarete iru) - is being suppressed.
その絶滅危惧種の植物は、特定の微気候と土壌条件が揃った環境下でのみ、その繊細な葉を密に茂らせることが可能であり、その生育環境の維持が保全の鍵となる。
The endangered plant species can only grow its delicate leaves densely under specific microclimatic and soil conditions, and maintaining its growing environment is key to its conservation.
絶滅危惧種 (zetsumetsu kigushu) - endangered species; 微気候 (biki kou) - microclimate; 土壌条件 (dojou jouken) - soil conditions; 揃った環境下 (sorotta kankyouka) - under matching/suitable conditions; 繊細な (sensai na) - delicate; 保全 (hozen) - conservation.
放置された遺伝子組み換え作物の広範な繁茂は、在来種の植物相を圧倒し、地域生態系における「茂る」という自然の摂理に予期せぬ歪みをもたらす懸念がある。
The widespread proliferation of abandoned genetically modified crops raises concerns about overwhelming native plant species and bringing about unforeseen distortions to the natural law of 'growing thickly' within the local ecosystem.
遺伝子組み換え作物 (idenshi kumikae sakumotsu) - genetically modified crops; 広範な繁茂 (kouhan na han'bou) - widespread proliferation; 在来種 (zairai shu) - native species; 植物相 (shokubutsu sou) - flora; 圧倒し (attou shi) - overwhelming; 摂理 (setsuri) - natural law/providence; 歪み (yugami) - distortion; 懸念がある (kenen ga aru) - there is concern.
産業革命以降の人間活動による環境改変は、かつて広大に茂っていた森林を後退させ、その結果、生物多様性の喪失という深刻な事態を招いている。
Environmental modifications due to human activities since the Industrial Revolution have caused the retreat of once vast, densely growing forests, resulting in the serious situation of biodiversity loss.
産業革命以降 (sangyou kakumei ikou) - since the Industrial Revolution; 環境改変 (kankyou kaihen) - environmental modification; 後退させ (koutai sase) - caused to retreat; 生物多様性 (seibutsu tayousei) - biodiversity; 喪失 (soushitsu) - loss; 深刻な事態 (shinkoku na jitai) - serious situation; 招いている (motei te iru) - is inviting/bringing about.
この古代遺跡の周辺に自生する植物は、その土地固有の栄養素と水分バランスに最適化されており、他所では見られないほど力強く茂る。
The plants native to the vicinity of this ancient ruin are optimized for the unique nutrients and water balance of the land, growing powerfully in a way not seen elsewhere.
古代遺跡 (kodai iseki) - ancient ruins; 周辺 (shuuhen) - vicinity; 自生する (jisei suru) - native/growing wild; 最適化されており (saiteki ka sarete ori) - have been optimized; 力強く (chikara-dzuyoku) - powerfully; 他所では見られないほど (yosho de wa mirarenai hodo) - to an extent not seen elsewhere.
都市化の進行により、かつては豊かな植生が茂っていた地域も、アスファルトに覆われ、緑の息吹は極めて限定的な空間に追いやられている。
Due to the progression of urbanization, areas that once had abundant, thickly growing vegetation are now covered in asphalt, and the breath of green is being driven into extremely limited spaces.
都市化の進行 (toshika no shinkou) - progression of urbanization; 豊かな植生 (yutaka na shokusei) - abundant vegetation; 息吹 (ibuki) - breath/sign of life; 限定的な (gentei-teki na) - limited; 追いやられている (oi yararete iru) - is being driven/pushed out.
その研究では、特定の植物が環境ストレス下で、生存戦略として遺伝子発現を変化させ、より密に茂ることで光合成効率を高めるメカニズムが示唆されている。
The research suggests a mechanism whereby, under specific environmental stress, certain plants alter gene expression as a survival strategy, increasing photosynthetic efficiency by growing more densely.
環境ストレス下 (kankyou sutoresu ka) - under environmental stress; 生存戦略 (seizon senryaku) - survival strategy; 遺伝子発現 (idenshi hatsugen) - gene expression; 変化させ (henka sase) - alter/change; 光合成効率 (kousei kouritsu) - photosynthetic efficiency; メカニズム (mekanizumu) - mechanism; 示唆されている (shisa sarete iru) - is suggested/implied.
かつては広大な草原が広がっていたこの地も、気候変動と人間活動の影響により、次第に低木が茂る半砂漠地帯へと変貌しつつある。
This land, where vast grasslands once spread, is gradually transforming into a semi-desert area with low bushes growing thickly, due to the effects of climate change and human activities.
草原 (sougen) - grassland; 広がっていた (hiro-gatte ita) - spread out; 気候変動 (kikou hendou) - climate change; 半砂漠地帯 (han-sabaku chitai) - semi-desert zone; 変貌しつつある (henbou shi tsutsu aru) - is in the process of transforming.
その島に固有の植物は、外部からの競争相手が少ないため、驚くほど旺盛に茂り、島全体の景観を特徴づけている。
The endemic plants of that island, due to the lack of external competitors, grow with surprising vigor, characterizing the entire island's landscape.
固有の (koyuu no) - endemic/unique; 競争相手 (kyousou aite) - competitor; 少ない (sukunai) - few/scarce; 旺盛に (ousei ni) - vigorously/abundantly; 特徴づけている (tokuchouzukete iru) - is characterizing.
Common Collocations
Common Phrases
— Grass grows thickly.
庭の草が伸びて、茂ってしまった。(Niwa no kusa ga nobite, shigerutte shimatta. - The grass in the garden grew long and became overgrown.)
— Trees grow thickly.
公園の木々が夏には葉を茂らせる。(Kouen no kigi ga natsu ni wa ha o shigeraseru. - The trees in the park grow thick with leaves in the summer.)
— Leaves grow thickly.
この植物は葉がよく茂る。(Kono shokubutsu wa ha ga yoku shigeru. - This plant's leaves grow thickly.)
— To grow without restraint; overgrown.
放置された庭は、草が茂り放題になっていた。(Houchi sareta niwa wa, kusa ga shigeri houdai ni natte ita. - The abandoned garden was overgrown with grass.)
— To grow densely and luxuriantly (often for forests).
森は鬱蒼と茂っていて、昼でも暗い。(Mori wa ussou to shigerutte ite, hiru demo kurai. - The forest is densely overgrown and dark even during the day.)
— To grow vigorously.
雨が降った後、植物は勢いよく茂り始めた。(Ame ga futta ato, shokubutsu wa ikioi yoku shigeri hajimeta. - After the rain, the plants began to grow vigorously.)
— Overgrown; growing too much.
この低木は茂りすぎなので、剪定が必要だ。(Kono teiboku wa shigerisugi nanode, sentei ga hitsuyou da. - This shrub is overgrown, so pruning is necessary.)
— Greenery grows thickly.
夏になると、山々が緑豊かに茂る。(Natsu ni naru to, yamayama ga midori yutaka ni shigeru. - In summer, the mountains become lushly green.)
— To grow densely.
熱帯雨林では、植物が密に茂っている。(Nettaiuurin de wa, shokubutsu ga mitsu ni shigerutte iru. - In tropical rainforests, plants grow densely.)
— A well-maintained thicket/bush.
庭師が手入れの行き届いた茂みを作った。(Niwa-shi ga teire no ikitodoita shigemi o tsukutta. - The gardener created a well-maintained thicket.)
Often Confused With
育つ is a general term for growing. 茂る specifically implies dense, thick growth. A plant can 育つ without 茂る, but if it 茂る, it has definitely 育った.
生える is for initial sprouting or appearing. 茂る is for the subsequent dense development and abundance of growth.
This verb (繁る) also means to flourish or thrive, but it can apply more broadly than just plants, including businesses and populations. While plants can 繁る, 茂る (with the grass kanji) specifically denotes thick, dense plant growth.
Idioms & Expressions
— To hide in a thicket or dense bushes. This idiom directly uses the noun form derived from 茂る.
犯人は茂みの中に隠れた。(Hannin wa shigemi no naka ni kakureta. - The criminal hid in the thicket.)
— Overgrown grass. This phrase emphasizes the state of grass growing thickly.
放置された庭には、背の高い茂る草が生い茂っていた。(Houchi sareta niwa ni wa, se no takai shigeru kusa ga oi-shigerutte ita. - In the abandoned garden, tall, overgrown grass grew thickly.)
— A dense, overgrown forest.
その映画の舞台は、鬱蒼と茂る森だった。(Sono eiga no butai wa, ussou to shigeru mori datta. - The setting of that movie was a densely overgrown forest.)
— An overgrown garden where plants grow without restraint.
彼女の家は、茂り放題の庭が特徴だ。(Kanojo no ie wa, shigeri houdai no niwa ga tokuchou da. - Her house is characterized by its overgrown garden.)
— Thick, abundant greenery.
夏の雨の後、茂る緑が目に鮮やかだった。(Natsu no ame no ato, shigeru midori ga me ni azayaka datta. - After the summer rain, the thick greenery was vivid to the eyes.)
— Thickly growing leaves.
この植物は、日陰を作るために茂る葉を持っている。(Kono shokubutsu wa, hikage o tsukuru tame ni shigeru ha o motte iru. - This plant has thickly growing leaves to create shade.)
— A tree with dense foliage.
その村には、何百年も生きている茂る木がある。(Sono mura ni wa, nanbyaku nen mo ikite iru shigeru ki ga aru. - There is a thickly growing tree in that village that has lived for hundreds of years.)
— Plants that grow thickly.
この地域では、様々な茂る植物が見られる。(Kono chiiki de wa, samazama na shigeru shokubutsu ga mirareru. - Various plants that grow thickly can be seen in this region.)
— Thickly growing grass and trees.
放置された土地は、すぐに茂る草木に覆われる。(Houchi sareta tochi wa, sugu ni shigeru kusaki ni oowareru. - Unattended land is soon covered by thickly growing grass and trees.)
— The state or appearance of growing thickly.
植物が茂る様子は、生命力の強さを感じさせる。(Shokubutsu ga shigeru yousu wa, seimeiryoku no tsuyosa o kanjisaseru. - The appearance of plants growing thickly makes one feel the strength of life.)
Easily Confused
Both verbs relate to growth in plants.
育つ (sodatsu) is a general verb meaning 'to grow' or 'to be raised.' It can apply to anything that develops, from a child to a plant. 茂る (shigeru), on the other hand, specifically describes the *manner* of growth – that it is thick, dense, and abundant, often to the point of being overgrown. A plant can 育つ without 茂る, but if it 茂る, it has certainly 育った.
この苗はよく育つが、あまり茂らない。(Kono nae wa yoku sodatsu ga, amari shigeranai. - This seedling grows well, but it doesn't grow very thickly.)
Both verbs describe plants growing.
生える (haeru) refers to the initial sprouting or appearance of something, like grass appearing after rain, or hair growing. It signifies the beginning of growth. 茂る (shigeru) describes the state *after* growth has occurred and become dense and abundant. You might say grass 生える, and then later, the grass 茂る.
雨が降って、草が<strong class='text-violet-600 dark:text-violet-400'>生えてきた</strong>。しばらくすると、庭の草が<strong class='text-violet-600 dark:text-violet-400'>茂ってきた</strong>。(Ame ga futte, kusa ga <strong class='text-violet-600 dark:text-violet-400'>haete kita</strong>. Shibaraku suru to, niwa no kusa ga <strong class='text-violet-600 dark:text-violet-400'>shigerutte kita</strong>. - It rained, and grass started to sprout. After a while, the grass in the garden began to grow thickly.)
Same pronunciation, different kanji, and a similar core meaning of abundance.
The verb 繁る (shigeru, with the kanji 繁) means to flourish, thrive, or prosper. While it can be used for plants growing abundantly, it's often used more broadly for things like businesses, populations, or cities that are doing well and increasing. 茂る (shigeru, with the kanji 茂) specifically focuses on the physical density and thickness of plant growth, often implying an overgrown state. You'd say a forest 茂る, but a town might 繁る.
この地域は緑が<strong class='text-violet-600 dark:text-violet-400'>茂っている</strong>が、経済はあまり<strong class='text-violet-600 dark:text-violet-400'>繁っていない</strong>。(Kono chiiki wa midori ga <strong class='text-violet-600 dark:text-violet-400'>shigerutte iru</strong> ga, keizai wa amari <strong class='text-violet-600 dark:text-violet-400'>shigeritte inai</strong>. - The greenery in this region is growing thickly, but the economy is not flourishing.)
Both describe spreading growth, often uncontrollably.
蔓延る (habikoru) means to spread or prevail, typically with a negative connotation. It's used for things like diseases, pests, or invasive species that spread rapidly and are difficult to control. While invasive plants can 茂る (grow thickly), the word 蔓延る emphasizes their unwelcome and invasive nature. 茂る is a more neutral description of dense plant growth.
庭に外来種が<strong class='text-violet-600 dark:text-violet-400'>蔓延って</strong>、在来種が<strong class='text-violet-600 dark:text-violet-400'>茂る</strong>のを妨げている。(Niwa ni gairaishu ga <strong class='text-violet-600 dark:text-violet-400'>habikotte</strong>, zairai shu ga <strong class='text-violet-600 dark:text-violet-400'>shigeru</strong> no o samatagete iru. - Invasive species have spread in the garden, hindering the native species from growing thickly.)
Both describe dense growth.
密生する (missei suru) is a more technical or descriptive term meaning 'to grow densely' or 'to be densely populated' (often used in botany or ecology). It focuses on the close proximity of plants. 茂る (shigeru) is a more general and common verb that describes the overall state of being thickly grown and lush, often implying an overgrown or wild appearance. You can say plants 密生している and the area appears to 茂る.
この地域では、特定の植物が<strong class='text-violet-600 dark:text-violet-400'>密生しており</strong>、全体として<strong class='text-violet-600 dark:text-violet-400'>茂っている</strong>ように見える。(Kono chiiki de wa, tokutei no shokubutsu ga <strong class='text-violet-600 dark:text-violet-400'>missei shite ori</strong>, zentai to shite <strong class='text-violet-600 dark:text-violet-400'>shigerutte iru</strong> you ni mieru. - In this region, specific plants grow densely, making it look generally overgrown.)
Sentence Patterns
Noun + が/は + 茂る
草が茂る。(Kusa ga shigeru.)
Noun + が/は + 茂っています
木が茂っています。(Ki ga shigerutte imasu.)
Noun + が/は + 茂った
庭が茂った。(Niwa ga shigerutta.)
Noun + が/は + 茂り + Verb (e.g., 〜てきた)
草が茂りてきた。(Kusa ga shigeri tekita.)
Adverb + 茂る
植物が勢いよく茂る。(Shokubutsu ga ikioi yoku shigeru.)
Noun + が/は + 茂り放題だ
庭が茂り放題だ。(Niwa ga shigeri houdai da.)
Noun + が/は + 鬱蒼と茂る
森が鬱蒼と茂る。(Mori ga ussou to shigeru.)
Noun + が/は + 異常に茂る
植物が異常に茂る。(Shokubutsu ga ijou ni shigeru.)
Word Family
Nouns
Verbs
Related
How to Use It
Common, especially in contexts related to nature, seasons, and gardening.
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Using 育つ (sodatsu) when 茂る (shigeru) is more appropriate.
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茂る (shigeru)
育つ is general growth. 茂る specifically means to grow thickly and abundantly. If you want to convey that plants are very dense, use 茂る.
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Using 生える (haeru) for dense growth.
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茂る (shigeru)
生える is for initial sprouting or appearance. 茂る describes the state after growth has occurred and become thick and lush.
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Incorrect conjugation, e.g., 茂るいる instead of 茂っている.
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茂っている (shigerutte iru)
The continuous state of growing thickly is expressed using the 〜ている form, which requires the 〜て form of the verb (茂り) followed by いる (iru).
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Confusing 茂る (shigeru) with 繁る (shigeru - different kanji).
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茂る (shigeru - with grass kanji) for dense plant growth, 繁る (shigeru - with prosper kanji) for flourishing/thriving.
While they sound the same, the kanji are different and carry distinct meanings. 茂る is about dense vegetation, while 繁る is about prosperity and abundance in a broader sense.
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Using 茂る for non-plant subjects without clear metaphorical context.
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Use a more appropriate verb like 増える (fueru - to increase) or 膨らむ (fukuramu - to swell/expand).
茂る is primarily used for plants. Applying it to abstract concepts like debt or population growth can sound unnatural unless the metaphor is very clear and established.
Tips
Visualize Dense Growth
When you encounter 茂る, picture a scene overflowing with green. Imagine a place where plants are packed so tightly together that you can barely see the ground beneath, like a jungle or a wildly overgrown garden. This strong visual will help you remember its meaning.
Connect to 'Shaggy'
The sound 'shigeru' can be loosely associated with the English word 'shaggy.' Think of a 'shaggy' dog with extremely thick fur, or a landscape that looks 'shaggy' with dense vegetation. This phonetic link can aid recall.
State vs. Action
Remember that 茂っている (shigerutte iru) describes the *state* of being overgrown, while 茂る (shigeru) can describe the action or tendency of growing thickly. For example, 'The grass is overgrown' (草が茂っている) vs. 'Grass grows thickly' (草が茂る).
Summer's Bounty
茂る is strongly associated with the peak of summer's growth. Think of the lush, vibrant greenery that appears after the rainy season. This seasonal connection can help you place the word in context.
Distinguish from 'Grow'
Don't confuse 茂る with 育つ (sodatsu - to grow). While related, 茂る specifically emphasizes the *density* and *abundance* of growth, not just the fact of growing. Think 'thickly' or 'densely' when you see 茂る.
Describe Your Surroundings
Look around your environment. If you see any plants growing thickly, try to describe them using 茂る. Even if it's just a potted plant that's become very full, you can say its leaves are 茂っている (shigerutte iru).
Positive or Negative?
While 茂る itself is neutral, the context determines its feel. 'Lush greenery' can be beautiful, but 'overgrown weeds' can be problematic. Consider whether the dense growth is desirable or not when using the word.
Kanji Clue
The kanji 茂 visually represents 'grass' (艸) over 'many' (多), literally meaning 'many grasses' or 'grasses in abundance,' which directly relates to the meaning of growing thickly.
茂る vs. 繁る
Remember that 茂る (with the 'grass' kanji) is about dense plant growth, while 繁る (with the 'prosper' kanji) is about flourishing or thriving in a broader sense, including businesses and populations.
Creative Descriptions
Use 茂る to add vivid imagery to your writing or speaking. Instead of just saying 'there were many plants,' say 'plants were growing thickly' (植物が茂っていた - shokubutsu ga shigerutte ita) to create a more impactful picture.
Memorize It
Mnemonic
Imagine a very 'shaggy' (sounds like 'shigeru') dog covered in thick fur. The fur is so thick and dense, it's like plants growing thickly. Or, think of a garden where the plants have 'shaken' (sounds like 'shigeru') out of control and grown everywhere.
Visual Association
Picture a lush, green forest canopy so thick that sunlight barely penetrates. Or, visualize a garden where the plants have grown so much they've become a dense, impenetrable wall of green.
Word Web
Challenge
Try to find pictures of overgrown gardens or dense forests and describe them using 茂る. For example, 'この庭は草が茂っている' (Kono niwa wa kusa ga shigerutte iru - This garden's grass is overgrown).
Word Origin
The verb 茂る (shigeru) is believed to have originated from ancient Japanese. Its core meaning relates to abundance and thickness. The kanji 茂 itself depicts a plant with many branches and leaves, visually representing dense growth.
Original meaning: The original meaning is strongly tied to the visual of plants spreading out and becoming thick and plentiful.
Japonic languagesCultural Context
The word itself is neutral and descriptive. However, if used to describe someone's neglected property, it might imply a slight criticism of lack of maintenance.
In English, we might use phrases like 'overgrown,' 'lush,' 'dense growth,' 'thickly growing,' or 'teeming with vegetation' to describe similar scenes.
Practice in Real Life
Real-World Contexts
Describing a garden that needs maintenance.
- 庭の草が茂ってきた。
- 手入れをしないと、茂り放題になる。
- この茂みは邪魔だ。
Talking about natural landscapes in summer.
- 夏は緑が茂る。
- 森が鬱蒼と茂っている。
- 山々が青々と茂る。
Discussing plant growth in farming or agriculture.
- 稲が青々と茂っている。
- この作物はよく茂る。
- 雑草が茂って困っている。
Describing abandoned or wild areas.
- 放置された土地は草木が茂る。
- 空き地が茂り放題になっている。
- 茂る草木に道が塞がれた。
Comparing different types of plant growth.
- この植物はあまり茂らない。
- あれは茂るタイプの花だ。
- 密に茂る様子が美しい。
Conversation Starters
"最近、庭の草がすごい勢いで茂ってきたんだけど、どうしたらいいかな？"
"夏になると、森の木々がすごく茂って、昼間でも薄暗くなるよね。あの感じ、好き？"
"この植物、葉っぱがすごく茂ってて、元気いっぱいって感じがするね。"
"昔、祖父母の家に行った時、庭が草で茂り放題だったのを覚えてる？"
"この公園、夏は木々が茂って日陰がたくさんできるから、涼しくていいね。"
Journal Prompts
Describe a place you know where plants grow very thickly. What does it look like, smell like, and feel like? Use the word 茂る.
Think about a time you saw a garden or a natural area that was overgrown. What were your thoughts and feelings about it? How would you describe the state of growth using 茂る?
Imagine you are a gardener. What kind of plants do you like that grow thickly? Why do you find that kind of growth appealing? Use 茂る in your description.
Consider the difference between plants that grow 'thickly' (茂る) and plants that simply 'grow' (育つ). When might you use one word over the other? Provide examples.
Reflect on the cycle of nature. How does the concept of plants growing thickly (茂る) relate to the seasons or the passage of time in your experience?
Frequently Asked Questions
10 questionsPrimarily, yes. 茂る is most commonly and naturally used to describe the dense and abundant growth of plants like grass, trees, flowers, and bushes. While it can sometimes be used metaphorically for other things that spread or increase rapidly (like rumors or population), this is less common and might sound unnatural without specific context. The core image is always related to thick vegetation.
育つ (sodatsu) is a general verb meaning 'to grow' or 'to be raised.' It applies to any living thing developing, including humans and plants. 茂る (shigeru) is more specific; it describes *how* a plant grows – thickly, densely, and abundantly, often to the point of being overgrown. A plant can 育つ without 茂る, but if it 茂る, it has certainly 育った.
Yes, absolutely. Weeds are a prime example of plants that often grow thickly and abundantly, especially if left untended. You would commonly hear phrases like '雑草が茂る' (zasso ga shigeru - weeds grow thickly) or '草が茂り放題' (kusa ga shigeri houdai - grass growing without restraint).
The kanji 茂 is composed of the 'grass' radical (艸) on top, representing plants, and 'many' (多) below. This visual composition directly conveys the idea of plants growing in abundance and density, reinforcing the meaning of the verb.
茂る itself is a neutral, descriptive word. Its connotation depends heavily on the context. In descriptions of nature, it evokes lushness and vitality, which can be positive. However, when describing a neglected garden or an invasive plant, it can imply a lack of maintenance or a problematic overgrowth, giving it a slightly negative nuance.
To express the continuous state of being overgrown, you use the 〜ている form: 茂っている (shigerutte iru). For example, '庭の草が茂っている' (Niwa no kusa ga shigerutte iru) means 'The grass in the garden is growing thickly.'
Yes, the most common related noun is 茂み (shigemi), which means 'thicket' or 'bush' – a place where plants grow densely. Another noun is 繁茂 (hanbou), which means 'luxuriant growth' or 'overgrowth,' often used in more technical contexts.
You use 茂る (with the kanji 茂) when you want to emphasize the dense, thick, and abundant *physical growth* of plants. You use 繁る (with the kanji 繁) when talking about flourishing, thriving, or prospering, which can apply to plants but also to businesses, economies, or populations. For example, 'forests 茂る' (densely grow), but 'towns 繁る' (flourish).
Very common collocations include '草が茂る' (kusa ga shigeru - grass grows thickly), '木々が茂る' (kigi ga shigeru - trees grow thickly), and '葉が茂る' (ha ga shigeru - leaves grow thickly). Phrases like '茂り放題' (shigeri houdai - overgrown without restraint) and '鬱蒼と茂る' (ussou to shigeru - grow densely and luxuriantly) are also frequently used.
While hair grows thickly, the verb typically used for hair growth is 生える (haeru) or 伸びる (nobiru - to grow longer). 茂る is almost exclusively reserved for the dense growth of plants and vegetation.
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Summary
茂る (shigeru) is a verb describing plants that grow very thickly and densely, creating a lush and often overgrown appearance. It's used for vibrant natural scenes like overgrown gardens or dense forests.
- 茂る (shigeru): plants grow thickly and densely.
- Describes lush, abundant vegetation, often overgrown.
- Commonly used for gardens, forests, and natural landscapes.
- Implies vitality and rapid spread of plant life.
Visualize Dense Growth
When you encounter 茂る, picture a scene overflowing with green. Imagine a place where plants are packed so tightly together that you can barely see the ground beneath, like a jungle or a wildly overgrown garden. This strong visual will help you remember its meaning.
Connect to 'Shaggy'
The sound 'shigeru' can be loosely associated with the English word 'shaggy.' Think of a 'shaggy' dog with extremely thick fur, or a landscape that looks 'shaggy' with dense vegetation. This phonetic link can aid recall.
State vs. Action
Remember that 茂っている (shigerutte iru) describes the *state* of being overgrown, while 茂る (shigeru) can describe the action or tendency of growing thickly. For example, 'The grass is overgrown' (草が茂っている) vs. 'Grass grows thickly' (草が茂る).
Summer's Bounty
茂る is strongly associated with the peak of summer's growth. Think of the lush, vibrant greenery that appears after the rainy season. This seasonal connection can help you place the word in context.
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B1Above; on top of; up.
〜の上
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豊か
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〜に従って
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営み
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