It describes a state where two entities share noticeable similarities in appearance, nature, or character.
Word in 30 Seconds
- Used to describe shared characteristics between two things.
- Commonly used for both physical appearance and personality.
- Can be used in both formal and casual settings.
Overview
- 1概要：「似ている」は、ある対象と別の対象の間に共通点があることを示す動詞（形容動詞的用法）です。視覚的な類似性から抽象的な概念の類似性まで幅広くカバーする、日本語学習において非常に重要な語彙です。2) 使用パターン：基本的には「AはBに似ている」という形で使われます。否定形は「似ていない」または「似ていない」となります。また、強調したい場合は「よく似ている」「そっくりだ」などの表現も多用されます。3) 一般的な文脈：家族の顔立ち、性格、あるいは二つの商品の性能比較など、日常会話からビジネスシーンまで広く使われます。親しい間柄では「似てるね」と略して使うこともあります。4) 類語比較：『そっくり』は、外見がほぼ同じであるという強い類似を指します。『類似している』は、より硬い表現で、レポートや論文、ニュースなどで使われる学術的・公的な表現です。一方、『似ている』は最も一般的で中立的な表現です。
Examples
妹は母に似ている。
everydayMy younger sister looks like my mother.
この二つの製品は機能が似ている。
formalThese two products have similar functions.
考え方が似てるね。
informalWe think alike.
両者の主張は本質において似ている。
academicBoth arguments are similar in essence.
Common Collocations
Common Phrases
似たり寄ったり
Much of a muchness / Similar
血は争えない（似ていることの強調）
It runs in the family
どこか似ている
Similar in some way
Often Confused With
Refers to a much stronger, almost identical resemblance. Usually focused on appearance.
A formal, Sino-Japanese word used in academic or professional writing. Not used in casual conversation.
Grammar Patterns
How to Use It
Usage Notes
The term is neutral and works in almost any situation. In very formal writing, you might prefer '類似している'. When speaking casually, the 'i' in 'niteiru' is often dropped to 'niteru'.
Common Mistakes
Beginners often use 'ga' instead of 'ni' to mark the comparison target. Remember that 'ni' is required for the object being compared to. Also, avoid using it for things that are completely different.
Tips
Focus on the particle 'ni'
Always use the particle 'ni' to indicate the target of comparison. Remember: A wa B ni niteiru.
Avoid overusing for people's looks
Be careful when commenting on someone's appearance, as it can sometimes be perceived as intrusive. Stick to objective observations.
Use for family resemblance
It is very common in Japan to comment on family resemblance by saying 'Oya ni niteiru ne' (You look like your parents).
Word Origin
Derived from the verb 'niru' (to resemble). It is a native Japanese verb that has been used since ancient times to describe likeness.
Cultural Context
In Japan, noting that a child resembles their parent is often considered a compliment. It highlights the connection between family members.
Memory Tip
Think of 'Niteiru' as 'Knit-e-iru', like two sweaters being knitted with the same pattern. They look similar because they share the same 'knit' design.
Frequently Asked Questions
4 questions「似ている」は程度の幅が広く、少しでも共通点があれば使えます。「そっくり」は「ほとんど同じ」という強い類似を強調する言葉で、主に外見について使われます。
外見について言う場合は、相手の好みや関係性によります。家族や友人に使うのは問題ありませんが、初対面の人に外見を指摘するのは避けた方が無難です。
「似ていた」を使います。例えば「昔は彼に似ていた」のように、過去の状態を説明する際に使用します。
「似通っている」は「似ている」よりも硬い表現で、性質や状態がかなり近いことを指します。主に書き言葉やニュースなどで用いられます。
Test Yourself
彼女は母親___よく似ている。
比較の対象を示す場合は助詞「に」を使います。
Score: /1
Summary
It describes a state where two entities share noticeable similarities in appearance, nature, or character.
- Used to describe shared characteristics between two things.
- Commonly used for both physical appearance and personality.
- Can be used in both formal and casual settings.
Focus on the particle 'ni'
Always use the particle 'ni' to indicate the target of comparison. Remember: A wa B ni niteiru.
Avoid overusing for people's looks
Be careful when commenting on someone's appearance, as it can sometimes be perceived as intrusive. Stick to objective observations.
Use for family resemblance
It is very common in Japan to comment on family resemblance by saying 'Oya ni niteiru ne' (You look like your parents).
Examples
4 of 4妹は母に似ている。
My younger sister looks like my mother.
この二つの製品は機能が似ている。
These two products have similar functions.
考え方が似てるね。
We think alike.
両者の主張は本質において似ている。
Both arguments are similar in essence.
Related Content
This Word in Other Languages
Related Grammar Rules
Related Vocabulary
More family words
還暦
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〜くらい
B1About; approximately; to the extent that.
認め合う
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知人
B1Acquaintance.
顔見知り
A2Acquaintance; someone you know by sight.
活発な
B1Active; lively; vigorous.
甘える
B1To be spoiled, to fawn; to behave like a pampered child.
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.
