巣立つ in 30 Seconds
- Means to leave the nest, like a child moving out.
- Signifies becoming independent and self-reliant.
- Commonly used for young adults leaving home.
- Evokes a sense of transition and new beginnings.
- Core Meaning
- The verb 巣立つ (すだつ - sudatsu) literally means 'to leave the nest'. This imagery is most commonly used metaphorically to describe young adults leaving their parental home to live independently, often for the first time. It signifies a significant transition from dependence to self-reliance.
- Beyond the Nest
- While the primary association is with children leaving home, 巣立つ can also be used in contexts where someone moves away from a familiar environment or group to start a new chapter. This could include moving to a different city for work or study, or even a more abstract sense of breaking away from old habits or a past life to become a new person.
- Emotional Nuance
- The phrase carries a sense of both accomplishment and potential sadness. For parents, seeing their children 巣立つ is a sign of successful upbringing but also marks the end of an era. For the individual leaving, it's a moment of excitement and freedom, but also one that involves facing the unknown and responsibility.
- When to Use
- You would use 巣立つ when discussing:
- A child moving out of their parents' house.
- A young person starting their career in a new city.
- Someone becoming financially independent.
- A graduation ceremony where students are about to enter the wider world.
- Figuratively, when an idea or project is ready to be released and stand on its own.
子供が大学卒業を機に家を巣立った。
親は子供が巣立つ日を寂しくも楽しみにしている。
- Basic Structure
- The verb 巣立つ conjugates like a regular Godan verb. The most common forms you'll encounter are the polite ます (masu) form and the plain past tense かった (katta) form.
- Subject and Object
- The subject is typically the person or entity leaving the nest, often marked with は (wa) or が (ga). There isn't a direct object for 巣立つ in the sense of acting upon something else. The focus is on the act of leaving itself.
- Temporal and Causal Connections
- Sentences often include reasons or timing for leaving. Common connectors are 〜を機に (o ki ni - upon the occasion of), 〜ために (tame ni - for the purpose of), or simple time indicators like 今年 (kotoshi - this year).
- Examples in Context
- Present/Future Tense: 彼は来年一人暮らしのために家を巣立つ予定です。(Kare wa rainen hitorigurashi no tame ni ie o sudatsu yotei desu.) - He plans to leave home next year to live by himself.
- Past Tense: 娘が巣立ってから、家が静かになった。(Musume ga sudattte kara, ie ga shizuka ni natta.) - Since my daughter left home, the house has become quiet.
- With a Reason: 就職を機に、彼は実家を巣立ちました。(Shūshoku o ki ni, kare wa jikka o sudachimashita.) - Upon getting a job, he left his parents' home.
- Figurative Use: このプロジェクトはもう巣立つ準備ができた。(Kono purojekuto wa mō sudatsu junbi ga dekita.) - This project is now ready to fly the nest.
- Describing the Act: 子供が巣立つことは、親にとって大きな喜びであり、同時に寂しさも伴う。(Kodomo ga sudatsu koto wa, oya ni totte ōkina yorokobi de ari, dōji ni sabishisa mo tomonau.) - A child leaving home is a great joy for parents, and at the same time, it is accompanied by sadness.
- Focus on Independence: 彼は経済的に自立し、そろそろ巣立つべき時期だ。(Kare wa keizai-teki ni jiritsu shi, sorosoro sudatsu beki jiki da.) - He is financially independent and it is about time he left the nest.
- Describing the Process: 成長するにつれて、子供たちは自然と巣立つ準備を始める。(Seichō suru ni tsurete, kodomo-tachi wa shizen to sudatsu junbi o hajimeru.) - As they grow, children naturally begin to prepare to leave the nest.
- In a Speech: 皆さん、今日この場で巣立つ皆さんの未来に幸あれ。(Mina-san, kyō kono ba de sudatsu minasan no mirai ni sa-chi are.) - Everyone, may the future of those leaving the nest today be fortunate.
- Reflecting on the Past: 振り返れば、私が巣立ったのは二十歳の時だった。(Furikaereba, watashi ga sudattano wa hatachi no toki datta.) - Looking back, I left home when I was twenty years old.
- Encouragement: 恐れずに巣立ち、自分の道を切り開いてください。(Osorezu ni sudachi, jibun no michi o kirihiraite kudasai.) - Please leave the nest without fear and forge your own path.
- Family Conversations
- This is perhaps the most common place to hear 巣立つ. Parents might say to their grown children, 「もう巣立つんだね。」(Mō sudatsunda ne. - You're leaving the nest now, aren't you?) or reflect, 「うちの子もいつか巣立つ日が来るわ。」(Uchi no ko mo itsuka sudatsu hi ga kuru wa. - The day my child leaves the nest will come someday.)
- Graduation Ceremonies
- Speeches at high school or university graduations frequently use 巣立つ. They often address the graduating students as those who are about to 巣立つ into the wider world, encouraging them to be brave and independent.
- News and Media
- Articles or reports about young people moving out for work or studies, or societal trends related to independence, might use 巣立つ. It's a concise way to express this significant life event.
- Literature and Arts
- You'll find 巣立つ in novels, poems, and song lyrics that explore themes of growing up, separation, and the transition to adulthood. It evokes a strong emotional resonance.
- Advice and Self-Help
- Books or articles offering advice to young adults on becoming independent, managing finances, or navigating life after leaving home might use 巣立つ to frame the discussion.
- Figurative Applications
- In business or creative fields, one might hear it used metaphorically. For instance, a startup founder might say their company is ready to 巣立つ from its incubator program.
- Informal Conversations Among Friends
- When friends discuss their life plans or recent moves, one might say, 「ついに私も巣立つことになったんだ。」(Tsuini watashi mo sudatsu koto ni nattanda. - I've finally decided to leave the nest.)
- Parental Advice to Children
- A parent might offer encouragement by saying, 「そろそろ巣立つ準備をしなさい。」(Soro soro sudatsu junbi o shinasai. - You should start preparing to leave the nest.)
卒業式では、先生が学生たちに巣立つことへのエールを送った。
親は子供が巣立つのを寂しく思いながらも、その成長を喜んだ。
- Confusing with Other Verbs of Leaving
- Learners might mistakenly use verbs like 出る (deru - to go out/exit) or 去る (saru - to leave/depart) when they specifically mean 'leaving the nest' or becoming independent. While 出る can be used for moving out (家を出る - ie o deru), 巣立つ carries a stronger connotation of transition to independence and maturity.
- Overusing in Non-Family Contexts
- While 巣立つ can be used figuratively, it's best to stick to its primary meaning of leaving home unless the context is very clear. Using it for a casual departure from a friend's house, for example, would be inappropriate.
- Incorrect Conjugation
- As a Godan verb, 巣立つ follows specific conjugation rules. Forgetting to change the final 'u' sound to 'i' for the te-form (e.g., saying 巣だつて instead of 巣立って) or incorrectly applying Ichidan verb conjugations are common errors.
- Literal Interpretation
- Trying to literally translate 'leaving the nest' into English and then back into Japanese might lead to awkward phrasing. The established Japanese term 巣立つ is the idiomatic and correct way to express this concept.
- Ignoring the Nuance of Independence
- Simply saying someone 'moved out' might not capture the full meaning of 巣立つ, which implies a step towards maturity and self-sufficiency, not just a change of residence.
- Using it for Young Children
- While the imagery is 'nest', 巣立つ is generally used for individuals who are of age to live independently, typically young adults, not very young children leaving home for the first time for school.
✕ 彼は家を出た。
〇 彼は家を巣立った。
✕ 子供が去った。
〇 子供が巣立った。
- 家を出る (ie o deru)
- Meaning: To leave one's home/house.
Usage: This is a more general and literal phrase for moving out. It doesn't necessarily imply independence or maturity. A student moving to a dorm for a semester might use this.
Example: 彼は来月、一人暮らしのために家を出る。(Kare wa raigetsu, hitorigurashi no tame ni ie o deru.) - He is moving out next month to live by himself.
Difference: 巣立つ implies a transition to independence and maturity, while 家を出る is simply about vacating a residence. - 独立する (dokuritsu suru)
- Meaning: To become independent; to be independent.
Usage: This is a broader term that can refer to financial independence, political independence, or personal independence. When applied to people leaving home, it emphasizes self-sufficiency.
Example: 彼女は経済的に独立し、親の援助なしで生活している。(Kanojo wa keizai-teki ni dokuritsu shi, oya no enjo nashi de seikatsu shite iru.) - She is financially independent and lives without her parents' help.
Difference: 巣立つ is more about the act of leaving the familiar environment to become independent, often a singular event. 独立する describes the state of being independent. - 自立する (jiritsu suru)
- Meaning: To be self-reliant; to stand on one's own feet.
Usage: Similar to 独立する, but often emphasizes personal autonomy and the ability to manage one's own life without relying on others. It's very commonly used for young adults.
Example: 若者は早く自立することが大切だ。(Wakamono wa hayaku jiritsu suru koto ga taisetsu da.) - It is important for young people to become self-reliant quickly.
Difference: 巣立つ is the action of leaving the nest to achieve independence. 自立する is the state or process of being independent. - 旅立つ (tabidatsu)
- Meaning: To set out on a journey; to depart.
Usage: This implies setting off on a trip or a new endeavor, often with a sense of adventure or purpose. It's more about the journey itself.
Example: 彼は新しい冒険のために旅立った。(Kare wa atarashii bōken no tame ni tabidatta.) - He set out on a new adventure.
Difference: 巣立つ specifically refers to leaving a familial or sheltered environment for independence, whereas 旅立つ is a more general term for starting a journey. - 巣穴を出る (suana o deru)
- Meaning: To leave a burrow/den.
Usage: This is the literal, non-metaphorical version. It would be used for animals leaving their homes.
Example: 小鳥が巣穴を出て、空を飛んだ。(Kotori ga suana o dete, sora o tonda.) - The little bird left its nest and flew in the sky.
Difference: 巣立つ is the metaphorical extension of this for humans. - 羽ばたく (habataku)
- Meaning: To flap wings; to spread one's wings.
Usage: Often used metaphorically to describe someone starting out, growing, and becoming successful or confident, similar to spreading their wings.
Example: 若い才能が世界で羽ばたくことを願っている。(Wakai sainō ga sekai de habataku koto o negatte iru.) - We hope young talent will spread their wings in the world.
Difference: While related to growth and new beginnings, 巣立つ is more about leaving a protected environment for independence, while 羽ばたく is about actively soaring and achieving potential. - 独立峰 (dokuritsu-hō)
- Meaning: Isolated peak (geographical term).
Usage: This is a geographical term and has no relation to the verb 巣立つ other than sharing the kanji 独立.
Example: この山は独立峰として有名だ。(Kono yama wa dokuritsu-hō to shite yūmei da.) - This mountain is famous as an isolated peak.
Difference: Completely unrelated meaning, only sharing a common kanji component with 独立する, which is related to 巣立つ. - 巣鴨 (Sugamo)
- Meaning: Sugamo (a district in Tokyo, known as 'Granny's Harajuku').
Usage: A place name.
Example: 祖母は巣鴨で買い物を楽しむ。(Sobo wa Sugamo de kaimono o tanoshimu.) - My grandmother enjoys shopping in Sugamo.
Difference: Shares the kanji 巣 (nest) but is a place name and has no semantic connection to the verb 巣立つ.
How Formal Is It?
Fun Fact
The imagery of birds leaving their nest is a powerful and universal symbol of growth, independence, and the transition from a protected environment to the wider world. This makes the metaphor particularly resonant across cultures, even though the word itself is Japanese. The kanji 立つ (tatsu) can also mean 'to establish' or 'to found', adding a layer of meaning related to building one's own life upon leaving the nest.
Pronunciation Guide
- Pronouncing the 'tsu' sound too strongly or adding an extra vowel sound after it.
- Confusing the 'su' sound with a more English 'soo' sound.
- Not clearly distinguishing the 'da' sound from surrounding vowels.
Difficulty Rating
CEFR B1 level. The word itself is straightforward in its primary meaning. However, understanding its metaphorical extensions and nuances requires some cultural context and exposure to its usage in various literary and everyday situations.
What to Learn Next
Prerequisites
Learn Next
Advanced
Grammar to Know
Using 〜を機に (o ki ni) to indicate an occasion for an action.
卒業を機に、彼は家を巣立った。
Using 〜ために (tame ni) to express purpose.
一人暮らしをするために、家を巣立った。
Using the te-form (〜て) to connect sequential actions or states.
巣立ってから、彼女は大きく成長した。
Using 〜こと (koto) to nominalize verbs or clauses.
子供が巣立つことは、親にとって感慨深い。
Using 〜べき (beki) to express 'should' or 'ought to'.
そろそろ巣立つべき時期だ。
Examples by Level
鳥が巣立つ。
The bird leaves the nest.
Simple present tense, describing a general action.
子供が巣立つ。
The child leaves the nest.
Simple present tense, metaphorical use.
もう巣立つ？
Leaving the nest already?
Question in present tense, often expressing surprise.
いつ巣立つの？
When are you leaving the nest?
Question about future action.
親は巣立つのを心配する。
Parents worry about leaving the nest.
Verb + の + を + 心配する (worry about).
新しい家へ巣立つ。
Leave the nest for a new home.
Destination + へ + Verb.
子猫が巣立つ。
The kitten leaves the nest.
Metaphorical use for young animals.
彼は巣立つ。
He leaves the nest.
Simple subject + verb.
子供が二十歳になったら、家を巣立つのが普通です。
It is common for children to leave home when they turn twenty.
〜たら (tara) - when; 〜のが普通です (no ga futsū desu) - it is common to.
卒業したら、彼女は巣立つつもりです。
After graduating, she intends to leave home.
〜たら (tara) - after; 〜つもりです (tsumori desu) - intend to.
親は子供が巣立つのを寂しく感じる。
Parents feel sad when their children leave home.
Verb + の + を + 感じる (kanjiru) - feel.
彼は自分の力で巣立つことを決めた。
He decided to leave home by his own power.
〜ことを決めた (koto o kimeta) - decided to.
この春、多くの学生が巣立ちます。
Many students will leave home this spring.
Plain form used in a general statement.
一人暮らしを始めるために巣立つ。
I am leaving home to start living alone.
〜ために (tame ni) - for the purpose of.
鳥は巣立つと、自分で餌を探す。
When birds leave the nest, they find food for themselves.
Verb + と (to) - when/if.
親元を離れて巣立つ。
Leave parents' home to become independent.
〜て (te) form for connecting actions.
子供が巣立つことは、親にとって人生の大きな節目である。
A child leaving home is a major milestone in a parent's life.
〜こと (koto) nominalizer; 〜にとって (ni totte) - for; 〜である (dearu) - is (formal).
彼は大学卒業を機に、実家を巣立つ決意を固めた。
Upon graduating from university, he solidified his resolve to leave his parents' home.
〜を機に (o ki ni) - upon the occasion of; 〜決意を固めた (ketsui o katameta) - solidified resolve.
親は子供が巣立つ準備ができたかどうかを見守る。
Parents watch to see if their children are ready to leave home.
〜かどうか (ka dō ka) - whether or not; 〜を見守る (o mimamoru) - watch over.
彼女は新しい環境で巣立つことを恐れていない。
She is not afraid of leaving the nest in a new environment.
〜ことを恐れていない (koto o osorete inai) - is not afraid of.
地域社会から巣立つ若者たちへの支援が求められている。
Support is needed for young people leaving the community.
〜への (e no) - towards; 〜が求められている (ga motomerarete iru) - is being sought/needed.
独立への第一歩として、彼は巣立つことにした。
As a first step towards independence, he decided to leave home.
〜として (toshite) - as; 〜ことにした (koto ni shita) - decided to.
親鳥は雛が巣立つまで、懸命に餌を運んだ。
The parent bird worked hard to bring food until the chick left the nest.
〜まで (made) - until; 懸命に (kenmei ni) - with all one's might.
彼は経済的な自立を目指して、実家を巣立った。
He left his parents' home aiming for financial independence.
〜を目指して (o mezashite) - aiming for.
親は子供が巣立つことを、寂しさ半分、誇らしさ半分で受け止める。
Parents accept their children leaving home with half sadness and half pride.
〜半分、〜半分 (hanbun, hanbun) - half... and half...; 〜で受け止める (de uketomeru) - to accept/receive with.
彼が巣立つ決断は、家族全員にとって大きな出来事だった。
His decision to leave home was a major event for the entire family.
〜にとって (ni totte) - for; 〜出来事 (dekigoto) - event.
社会全体で若者が巣立つための環境整備が急務である。
It is an urgent task to prepare an environment for young people to leave home for society as a whole.
〜ための (tame no) - for the purpose of; 〜環境整備 (kankyō seibi) - environmental preparation; 〜が急務である (ga kyūmu de aru) - is an urgent task.
子供が巣立つ時期になると、親は子育ての終わりを意識し始める。
When the time comes for children to leave home, parents begin to be aware of the end of child-rearing.
〜時期になると (jiki ni naru to) - when the time comes; 〜を意識し始める (o ishiki shihajimeru) - begin to be aware of.
彼は単に家を出るのではなく、自己実現のために巣立つことを選んだ。
He chose to leave home not merely to move out, but for self-realization.
単に〜のではなく (tan ni ~ no de wa naku) - not simply... but; 〜ために (tame ni) - for.
鳥が巣立つように、我々も新たな挑戦へと羽ばたかなければならない。
Just as birds leave the nest, we too must spread our wings towards new challenges.
〜ように (yō ni) - just as; 〜へと (e to) - towards.
親元を離れて巣立つ経験は、人間的な成長を促す貴重な機会となる。
The experience of leaving parents' home to become independent becomes a precious opportunity to foster personal growth.
〜経験は〜となる (keiken wa ~ to naru) - the experience becomes...; 〜を促す (o unagasu) - to promote/foster.
将来への不安を抱えつつも、彼は巣立つことを決意した。
Despite harboring anxieties about the future, he resolved to leave home.
〜を抱えつつも (o kakaetsutsu mo) - while harboring...; 〜を決意した (o ketsui shita) - resolved to.
親が子供の巣立つ準備を過剰に手助けすることは、かえって自立を妨げる可能性がある。
Parents excessively helping their children prepare to leave home may paradoxically hinder their independence.
〜過剰に (kajō ni) - excessively; 〜手助けする (tedasuke suru) - to help/assist; 〜かえって (kaette) - on the contrary/paradoxically; 〜を妨げる (o samatageru) - to hinder/obstruct.
地域社会は、若者が巣立つ際に、精神的・経済的な支えを提供すべきである。
The local community should provide spiritual and financial support when young people leave home.
〜際に (sai ni) - when/at the time of; 〜精神的・経済的な (seishinteki/keizaiteki na) - spiritual/financial; 〜支えを提供する (sasae o teikyō suru) - to provide support.
彼は、親元を離れて巣立つことを、単なる物理的な移動ではなく、自己のアイデンティティを確立するプロセスと捉えていた。
He viewed leaving his parents' home to become independent not as mere physical relocation, but as a process of establishing his own identity.
単に〜ではなく (tan ni ~ de wa naku) - not simply... but; 〜プロセスと捉える (purosesu to toraeru) - to perceive as a process.
社会構造の変化に伴い、若者が巣立つタイミングや形態も多様化している。
With changes in social structure, the timing and forms of young people leaving home are also diversifying.
〜に伴い (ni tomonai) - along with/accompanying; 〜形態 (keitai) - form/type; 〜も多様化している (mo tayōka shite iru) - are also diversifying.
親鳥が雛に巣立つための訓練を施すように、教育機関も学生が社会へ巣立つための準備を促すべきだ。
Just as parent birds train their chicks to leave the nest, educational institutions should also encourage students to prepare for leaving for society.
〜ように (yō ni) - just as; 〜訓練を施す (kunren o hodokosu) - to provide training; 〜促すべきだ (mo susumebeki da) - should encourage.
彼は、故郷を離れて巣立つことで、自身の可能性を最大限に引き出そうとした。
By leaving his hometown to become independent, he tried to draw out his potential to the fullest.
〜ことで (koto de) - by doing; 〜可能性を最大限に引き出す (kanōsei o saidaigen ni hikidasu) - to draw out potential to the maximum.
子供が巣立つ過程で、親子の関係性も新たな段階へと移行していく。
In the process of a child leaving home, the parent-child relationship also transitions to a new stage.
〜過程で (katei de) - in the process of; 〜関係性 (kankei sei) - relationship; 〜へと移行していく (e to ikō shite iku) - to transition towards.
都市部への人口集中が進む中、地方からの若者が巣立つ現象は、地域活性化の課題と密接に関連している。
Amidst the increasing population concentration in urban areas, the phenomenon of young people leaving from rural areas is closely related to the challenge of regional revitalization.
〜が進む中 (ga susumu naka) - amidst the progress of; 〜現象 (genshō) - phenomenon; 〜と密接に関連している (to missetsu ni kanren shite iru) - is closely related to.
親が子に巣立つことを促すのは、その自立心を涵養する上で不可欠なプロセスであるが、同時に親自身のアイデンティティの再構築をも迫る。
Parents encouraging their children to leave home is an indispensable process for fostering their independence, but it simultaneously compels parents to reconstruct their own identities.
〜を促すのは〜であるが、〜をも迫る (o unagasu no wa ~ de aru ga, ~ o mo semaru) - encouraging... is..., but it also compels...
若者が巣立つという行為は、単に物理的な空間からの離脱に留まらず、精神的な自律を獲得し、社会の一員として自己の役割を模索する旅の始まりを意味する。
The act of young people leaving home signifies not merely a departure from physical space, but the beginning of a journey to gain mental autonomy and explore one's role as a member of society.
〜という行為は〜に留まらず、〜を意味する (to iu kōi wa ~ ni todomarazu, ~ o imi suru) - the act of... is not limited to..., but signifies...
親鳥が雛を巣立つように仕向けるのは、自然淘汰の摂理に則った生物学的な必然であるが、人間社会においては、文化的、社会的、心理的な諸要因が複雑に絡み合い、そのタイミングやプロセスは個々の家庭によって大きく異なりうる。
The act of parent birds guiding their chicks to leave the nest is a biological imperative in accordance with the principles of natural selection, but in human society, various cultural, social, and psychological factors are intricately intertwined, and the timing and process can vary greatly depending on the individual family.
〜に則った〜であるが、〜においては〜が複雑に絡み合い、〜は〜によって大きく異なりうる (ni notsutta ~ de aru ga, ~ ni oite wa ~ ga fukuzatsu ni karami ai, ~ wa ~ ni yotte ōkiku kotonari uru) - is ~ in accordance with..., but in..., ~ are intricately intertwined, and ~ can vary greatly depending on...
子供が巣立つという経験は、親にとっては子育ての集大成であると同時に、自己の人生における新たな章の幕開けを意味する、一種のアイデンティティの転換点ともなりうる。
The experience of a child leaving home can be seen as a culmination of parenting for the parent, and at the same time, a kind of identity turning point, signifying the opening of a new chapter in their own life.
〜であると同時に〜ともなりうる (de aru to dōji ni ~ tomo nari uru) - is... and at the same time can also be...
現代社会において、若者が巣立つことの遅延は、経済的要因のみならず、親との情緒的な結びつきの強さや、自己肯定感の低さといった心理的側面にも起因している場合が多い。
In modern society, the delay in young people leaving home is often attributable not only to economic factors but also to psychological aspects such as the strength of emotional ties with parents and low self-esteem.
〜ことの遅延は〜のみならず〜といった〜にも起因している場合が多い (~ koto no chien wa ~ nomi narazu ~ to itta ~ ni mo kīin shite iru baai ga ōi) - the delay in... is often attributable not only to... but also to psychological aspects such as...
地域社会が、巣立つ若者に対して、単なる経済的支援に留まらず、彼らが主体的に地域社会に貢献できるような機会や場を提供することは、持続可能な地域づくりの観点からも極めて重要である。
For young people leaving home, it is extremely important from the perspective of sustainable community development that the local community provides not only mere economic support but also opportunities and spaces where they can proactively contribute to the community.
〜に留まらず〜ような〜を提供することは〜からも極めて重要である (~ ni todomarazu ~ yō na ~ o teikyō suru koto wa ~ kara mo kiwamete jūyō de aru) - providing ~ not only... but also... is extremely important from the perspective of...
親が子に巣立つことを促す際の難しさは、子供の自立を応援しつつも、彼らが直面するであろう困難やリスクに対する親としての責任感との間で、いかにバランスを取るかという点にある。
The difficulty parents face when encouraging their children to leave home lies in how to balance supporting their child's independence with their sense of responsibility as a parent for the difficulties and risks they may encounter.
〜際の難しさは〜にある (~ sai no muzukashisa wa ~ ni aru) - the difficulty in... lies in...; 〜しつつも (shitsutsu mo) - while doing...
教育機関は、学生が巣立つ際に、単に知識やスキルを授けるだけでなく、変化の激しい現代社会を生き抜くためのレジリエンスや適応力を育むための包括的な支援体制を構築する必要がある。
When students leave home, educational institutions need to build a comprehensive support system not only for imparting knowledge and skills but also for fostering resilience and adaptability to survive in the rapidly changing modern society.
〜だけでなく〜ための〜を構築する必要がある (~ dake de naku ~ tame no ~ o kōchiku suru hitsuyō ga aru) - it is necessary to build ~ not only... but also for...
Common Collocations
Common Phrases
— To leave the nest; to become independent.
子供が巣立った。
— The day of leaving the nest; the day of becoming independent.
巣立つ日が待ちきれない。
— The resolve to leave the nest; the decision to become independent.
巣立つ決意を固めた。
— Preparation for leaving the nest; preparation for independence.
巣立つ準備は進んでいますか？
— The act of leaving the nest; the act of becoming independent.
巣立つことは、成長の証です。
— To leave one's home to live independently.
彼は一人暮らしのために家を巣立った。
— Birds leaving their nest (literal).
春になると鳥が巣立つ。
— Time of departure; time to set out on a journey (often used metaphorically for leaving home).
いよいよ旅立ちの時が来た。
Often Confused With
While both mean leaving home, 家を出る is more literal and doesn't necessarily imply independence or maturity. 巣立つ specifically conveys the idea of becoming independent.
This verb means 'to leave' or 'depart' in a general sense. It lacks the specific imagery and connotation of leaving a nest for independence that 巣立つ carries.
This means 'to set out on a journey'. While it can involve leaving a place, it focuses more on the journey itself rather than the transition to independence from a home environment.
Idioms & Expressions
— Literally, birds leaving their nest. Used metaphorically for children leaving home.
春になると、多くの鳥が巣立つ。
Literal/Nature— Children leaving the parental home to live independently.
子供が巣立つのは、親にとって感慨深い瞬間だ。
Family/Life Stage— To leave one's parents' home specifically, to begin an independent life.
大学進学を機に、親元を巣立った。
Family Home/Transition— A new departure into independence; a new phase of life after leaving home.
結婚して、新たな巣立ちを迎えた。
Figurative/New Beginnings— To leave a sheltered environment (like home or school) and enter the wider society.
卒業生は、社会へ巣立つ。
Societal Transition— To spread one's wings and leave the nest; to bravely venture out into the world.
恐れずに翼を広げて巣立ちなさい。
Poetic/Encouraging— A significant transition in life, akin to leaving home for the first time, marking a move towards maturity or a new phase.
転職は、私にとって人生の巣立ちだった。
Figurative/Life Journey— The act of leaving home with the specific goal of achieving independence.
独立の巣立ちを祝う。
Focus on Independence— The concept of one's childhood home as a 'nest' or place of origin.
いつまでも実家という巣に留まるわけにはいかない。
Metaphorical/Origin— Towards the next stage of independence or leaving a familiar environment.
大学卒業後、次の巣立ちへと進む。
Forward-looking/ProgressEasily Confused
Both phrases relate to leaving one's home.
<mark>巣立つ</mark> specifically implies leaving home to become independent and mature, much like a bird leaving its nest. 家を出る is a more general phrase meaning simply 'to leave the house' and doesn't inherently carry the same sense of independence or transition to adulthood.
彼は大学のために家を出たが、まだ親に頼っている。 vs. 彼は大学卒業後、経済的に自立するために家を<mark>巣立った</mark>。
Both relate to independence.
独立する means 'to become independent' in a broader sense (financial, political, personal). <mark>巣立つ</mark> is the *act* of leaving the nest, often as a step towards or part of becoming independent. You <mark>巣立つ</mark> to become independent (独立する).
彼はもう<mark>独立している</mark>。 vs. 彼は<mark>巣立って</mark>独立した。
Both imply self-reliance.
自立する means 'to be self-reliant' or 'to stand on one's own feet'. <mark>巣立つ</mark> is the action of leaving the nest, which is a major step towards achieving 自立. You leave the nest (<mark>巣立つ</mark>) to become self-reliant (自立する).
親元を離れて<mark>巣立つ</mark>ことで、自立心が養われる。
Both involve leaving a place and starting something new.
旅立つ means 'to set out on a journey' or 'to depart'. It's a more general term for starting a trip or a new endeavor, often with a sense of adventure. <mark>巣立つ</mark> is specifically about leaving a protected, familial environment to establish one's own independent life.
彼は世界一周のために<mark>旅立った</mark>。 vs. 彼は自分の人生のために<mark>巣立った</mark>。
Both use bird imagery and relate to new beginnings.
羽ばたく literally means 'to flap wings' and is often used metaphorically to mean 'to soar', 'to thrive', or 'to achieve success'. While <mark>巣立つ</mark> is about leaving the nest, 羽ばたく is more about actively flying and reaching one's potential. <mark>巣立つ</mark> is the first step, and 羽ばたく is the flying.
鳥が<mark>巣立って</mark>、空を<mark>羽ばたく</mark>。
Sentence Patterns
Subject + は/が + 巣立つ。
鳥<mark>は巣立つ</mark>。
Subject + は/が + 家/場所 + を + 巣立つ。
子供<mark>は家を巣立つ</mark>。
When/Reason + 、 + Subject + は/が + 巣立つ。
卒業<mark>したら</mark>、<mark>巣立つ</mark>。
Subject + は/が + 巣立つ + こと + は/が + Adjective/Noun。
子供が<mark>巣立つことは</mark>、親にとって寂しい。
Subject + は/が + 巣立つ + 決意/準備 + をする。
彼は<mark>巣立つ決意をする</mark>。
Subject + は/が + (Context) + を + 巣立つ + ように + (Analogy/Comparison)。
鳥<mark>が巣立つように</mark>、彼も独立した。
Subject + は/が + (Noun) + を + 巣立つ + ことを + Verb。
彼は<mark>親元を巣立つこと</mark>を決めた。
(Context) + 、Subject + は/が + 巣立つ + 際に + (Action/State)。
若者<mark>が巣立つ際に</mark>、支援が必要だ。
Word Family
Nouns
Verbs
Related
How to Use It
Common, especially in contexts related to family life, education, and personal growth.
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Using 巣立つ for any kind of leaving.
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Using 巣立つ specifically for leaving a nest or home to become independent.
<mark>巣立つ</mark> has a specific meaning of leaving a protected environment (like a nest or parents' home) to become independent. Using it for any departure, like leaving a friend's house, would be incorrect.
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Confusing 巣立つ with 家を出る (ie o deru).
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Using 巣立つ to emphasize independence and maturity, and 家を出る for a general move.
家を出る simply means 'to leave the house'. <mark>巣立つ</mark> implies a transition to adulthood and self-reliance, which 家を出る does not necessarily convey.
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Incorrect conjugation of the verb.
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Conjugating 巣立つ correctly as a Godan verb (e.g., 巣立って for the te-form).
As a Godan verb, 巣立つ follows specific conjugation patterns. Forgetting to change the final 'u' sound to 'i' for the te-form (e.g., saying 巣だつて instead of 巣立って) is a common error.
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Literal translation of 'leaving the nest' from English.
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Using the established Japanese idiom <mark>巣立つ</mark>.
Directly translating 'leaving the nest' might result in awkward phrasing. <mark>巣立つ</mark> is the idiomatic and natural way to express this concept in Japanese.
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Using 巣立つ for very young children.
→
Using 巣立つ for young adults or individuals capable of independent living.
While the imagery is 'nest', <mark>巣立つ</mark> is typically applied to individuals who are ready for independence, usually young adults, not very young children leaving home for the first time for school.
Tips
Clear Syllables
Focus on pronouncing each syllable distinctly: 'su', 'da', 'tsu'. Avoid blurring them together. The 'u' sound in 'su' and 'tsu' is short and unrounded.
Metaphorical Power
Remember the strong imagery of birds leaving their nest. This helps convey the idea of a significant, often emotional, transition to independence.
Visual Link
Picture a nest with a bird taking its first flight. Associate this visual with the kanji 巣 (nest) and 立つ (leave/stand) to reinforce the meaning.
Te-Form Connection
The te-form, 巣立って (sudatte), is very useful for connecting the act of leaving home to subsequent events or feelings, like 'Since leaving home...'
Cultural Significance
Understand that in Japanese culture, leaving home is a major milestone. This context helps appreciate why 巣立つ is such a common and evocative term.
Noun Form
Don't forget the noun form 巣立ち (sudachi), which refers to the act or event of leaving the nest and becoming independent.
Sentence Building
Practice creating sentences using 巣立つ in different tenses and with various connecting particles to solidify your understanding of its usage.
Independence vs. Moving Out
Distinguish 巣立つ from simply 'moving out'. 巣立つ emphasizes the growth into independence and self-reliance.
Beyond the Home
Be aware that 巣立つ can be used figuratively for projects or ideas leaving a sheltered environment, but its primary meaning remains tied to personal independence.
Antonym Awareness
Understanding antonyms like 'relying on' (頼る) or 'staying at home' (家にいる) can help clarify the meaning of independence conveyed by 巣立つ.
Memorize It
Mnemonic
Imagine a baby bird, looking small and cute, standing up on the edge of its nest. It's nervous but ready to fly. That image of the bird standing up and ready to leave its nest is the core of 巣立つ.
Visual Association
Picture a bird's nest high in a tree. A young bird is perched on the edge, flapping its wings, about to take its first flight into the big blue sky. The nest represents home and safety, while the flight represents independence and the unknown future.
Word Web
Challenge
Try to visualize a young person packing their bags and walking out of their childhood home with a mix of excitement and apprehension. Associate this image with the feeling of a bird leaving its nest for the first time. Use the word 巣立つ to describe this moment.
Word Origin
The word 巣立つ (sudatsu) is a compound word formed from two distinct Japanese kanji and their meanings. The first kanji, 巣 (su), means 'nest' or 'roost', referring to the home of birds or other animals. The second kanji, 立つ (tatsu), means 'to stand up', 'to rise', or 'to leave'.
Original meaning: Literally, 'to stand up from the nest' or 'to leave the nest'. This direct meaning is still used for birds and other animals.
Japonic languages, specifically Japanese.Cultural Context
While 巣立つ is a common and generally positive term, be mindful that the experience of leaving home can be stressful for both the individual and their family. The context and tone should reflect an understanding of this significant life change.
In English-speaking cultures, the phrase 'leaving the nest' serves a similar metaphorical purpose, highlighting the departure from a parental home and the move towards independence. The concept is widely understood and used in similar contexts.
Practice in Real Life
Real-World Contexts
A child graduating from high school or university.
- 卒業おめでとう。いよいよ<mark>巣立つ</mark>んだね。
- これからは自分の力で<mark>巣立つ</mark>時だよ。
- 新しい生活のために<mark>巣立つ</mark>準備はできている？
Parents discussing their grown children.
- うちの子ももう<mark>巣立つ</mark>年頃だ。
- 子供が<mark>巣立つ</mark>のは寂しいけれど、嬉しい。
- <mark>巣立つ</mark>日を楽しみにしている。
Someone moving out for the first time.
- 一人暮らしを始めるために<mark>巣立つ</mark>。
- 新しい街で<mark>巣立つ</mark>ことにした。
- 今日、<mark>巣立つ</mark>日です。
Discussions about personal growth and independence.
- <mark>巣立つ</mark>ことは、成長の証です。
- 彼もそろそろ<mark>巣立つ</mark>べきだ。
- この経験が、私の<mark>巣立ち</mark>を助けてくれた。
Figurative use in business or projects.
- このプロジェクトはもう<mark>巣立つ</mark>準備ができた。
- 新しい会社が<mark>巣立つ</mark>。
- アイデアを<mark>巣立た</mark>せて、形にする。
Conversation Starters
"When did you or someone you know 'leave the nest' (巣立つ)? What was it like?"
"What are some common reasons young people in your culture leave home?"
"Do you think it's harder or easier for young people to 'leave the nest' today compared to the past?"
"What are the biggest challenges when someone first 'leaves the nest'?"
"How do parents typically feel when their children are about to 'leave the nest' (巣立つ)?"
Journal Prompts
Describe a time you felt you 'left the nest' or became more independent. What did that experience entail?
Imagine you are a parent watching your child prepare to 'leave the nest' (巣立つ). Write down your thoughts and feelings.
What does 'independence' mean to you? How does the concept of <mark>巣立つ</mark> relate to your personal definition of independence?
If you were to give advice to someone who is about to 'leave the nest' (巣立つ), what would you say?
Reflect on the metaphorical meaning of 'leaving the nest'. What other life transitions could this phrase be applied to?
Frequently Asked Questions
10 questionsThe literal meaning of 巣立つ (sudatsu) is 'to leave the nest'. This is used when talking about birds or other animals departing from their nests. The kanji 巣 (su) means 'nest', and 立つ (tatsu) means 'to stand up' or 'to leave'.
Primarily, yes. It's most commonly used metaphorically for young adults leaving their parents' home to live independently. However, it can also be used figuratively for any significant departure from a sheltered or familiar environment to start anew, like a project leaving its development phase.
家を出る (ie o deru) simply means 'to leave the house' or 'to move out'. It's a very general term. 巣立つ (sudatsu) carries a stronger connotation of leaving home to become independent and mature, akin to a bird leaving its nest. It implies a significant life transition.
Yes, it can be used metaphorically in that context, especially if it's their first time living away from home and represents a significant step towards independence. The emphasis is on leaving a familiar, protected environment to establish oneself elsewhere.
Generally, no. It's usually seen as a positive and necessary step towards adulthood. However, the act of leaving can evoke bittersweet emotions for both the person leaving and their family, so 'sadness' or 'nostalgia' can be associated with the event, but not with the word itself.
Parents typically feel a mix of emotions: pride in their child's independence and growth, but also sadness at the end of an era and the departure of their child from the home. It's a significant milestone for the whole family.
巣立つ is used in both formal and informal settings. In formal contexts like graduation speeches, it's used metaphorically. In everyday conversations, it's common when discussing children moving out. The noun form 巣立ち (sudachi) is also frequently used.
The noun form is 巣立ち (sudachi), which refers to the act or state of leaving the nest and becoming independent.
Yes, the original and literal meaning of 巣立つ is for birds or other animals to leave their nests. The metaphorical use for humans is an extension of this literal meaning.
Similar words include 家を出る (ie o deru - to leave the house), 独立する (dokuritsu suru - to become independent), and 自立する (jiritsu suru - to be self-reliant). 巣立つ specifically emphasizes the transition from a protected environment to independence.
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Summary
The verb <mark>巣立つ</mark> (sudatsu) is used when a child or young person leaves their parents' home to live independently, symbolizing their transition to adulthood and self-reliance, much like a bird leaving its nest.
- Means to leave the nest, like a child moving out.
- Signifies becoming independent and self-reliant.
- Commonly used for young adults leaving home.
- Evokes a sense of transition and new beginnings.
Clear Syllables
Focus on pronouncing each syllable distinctly: 'su', 'da', 'tsu'. Avoid blurring them together. The 'u' sound in 'su' and 'tsu' is short and unrounded.
Metaphorical Power
Remember the strong imagery of birds leaving their nest. This helps convey the idea of a significant, often emotional, transition to independence.
Visual Link
Picture a nest with a bird taking its first flight. Associate this visual with the kanji 巣 (nest) and 立つ (leave/stand) to reinforce the meaning.
Te-Form Connection
The te-form, 巣立って (sudatte), is very useful for connecting the act of leaving home to subsequent events or feelings, like 'Since leaving home...'
Related Content
This Word in Other Languages
More family words
還暦
B160th birthday (celebration of completing a 60-year cycle).
〜くらい
B1About; approximately; to the extent that.
認め合う
B1To recognize each other's worth; to acknowledge.
知人
B1Acquaintance.
顔見知り
A2Acquaintance; someone you know by sight.
甘える
B1To be spoiled, to fawn; to behave like a pampered child.
活発な
B1Active; lively; vigorous.
思春期
B1Adolescence; the period of transition from childhood to adulthood.
養子
B1Adopted child; a child taken into one's family by legal means.
養親
B2Adoptive parent.
