負け in 30 Seconds
- The noun 'make' means a loss or defeat.
- Used in games, sports, and competitions.
- It's the opposite of winning.
- Root Word
- The verb 負ける (makeru) means 'to lose'. The noun 負け (make) is derived from this verb and refers to the act or result of losing.
- Core Meaning
- The primary meaning of 負け (make) is a loss or defeat, especially in a game, competition, or contest. It signifies the state of not winning or being beaten by an opponent.
- Contexts of Use
- You'll frequently encounter 負け when discussing sports, board games, video games, debates, or any situation where there's a clear winner and loser. It can also be used more figuratively to describe setbacks or failures in life, though this is less common at the A2 level.
- Nuance
- While 負け directly translates to 'loss', it carries a sense of finality for that particular event. It's the outcome when one side does not achieve victory. The intensity of the 'loss' can vary depending on the context.
試合に負けてしまいました。
彼の負けは残念でした。
今回の負けは、次の試合への教訓になります。
- Basic Structure
- The most common way to use 負け is as a noun, often following a particle like が (ga) or は (wa) to indicate the subject or topic, or directly after a description of the situation.
- With Verbs
- While 負け is a noun, it's often used in conjunction with verbs that describe the experience of losing or the consequence of a loss. For example, 負けを認める (make o mitomeru) means 'to admit defeat'.
- Describing the Loss
- You can use adjectives or descriptive phrases before 負け to specify the nature of the loss, such as 悔しい負け (kuyashii make) for a frustrating loss, or 惜しい負け (oshoi make) for a narrow or regrettable loss.
- Figurative Use (Advanced)
- In more advanced contexts, 負け can be used metaphorically to represent personal failures or emotional defeats, like 心の負け (kokoro no make) - a defeat of the spirit. However, for A2 learners, focus on the literal meaning in competitions.
今日のゲームは負けました。
残念ながら、私たちのチームは負けました。
この負けは、彼にとって大きなショックでした。
- Sports Commentary
- In sports broadcasts, commentators frequently use 負け to describe the outcome of matches. Phrases like '惜しい負け' (oshoi make - a close loss) or '完敗' (kanpai - a complete defeat, which is a related concept but not 負け itself) are common.
- Video Game Streams
- Gamers and streamers often talk about their wins and losses. You'll hear them say things like 'また負けちゃった' (mata makechatta - 'I lost again') or discuss the difficulty of a particular opponent that led to a 負け.
- Board Game Gatherings
- When people play card games, board games, or Shogi/Go, the topic of who won and who lost inevitably comes up. A simple '私の負けです' (watashi no make desu - 'It's my loss') is a polite way to concede.
- News Reports
- News about sports events will naturally use the word 負け to report on teams or athletes who did not win.
- Casual Conversation
- Friends discussing a recent game or match will often say things like '昨日の試合、負けたんだ' (kinou no shiai, maketanda - 'Yesterday's match, we lost').
今日のテニスは私の負けです。
残念ながら、あのゲームでは負けました。
彼の負けは、予想外でした。
- Confusing Noun and Verb
- Learners might try to use 負け directly as a verb, like saying '私は負けました' (watashi wa make mashita) when they should use the verb 負ける (makeru): '私は負けました' (watashi wa makemashita). Remember, 負け is the noun 'loss'.
- Overuse in Non-Competitive Contexts
- While 負け can be used metaphorically, at the A2 level, it's best to stick to its literal meaning of losing in a game or competition. Using it for minor setbacks might sound unnatural.
- Incorrect Particle Usage
- Ensure correct particles are used. For example, if you're stating 'the loss was regrettable', you might say 'その負けは残念でした' (sono make wa zannen deshita). Using the wrong particle can change the meaning or make the sentence grammatically incorrect.
- Direct Translation from English
- English speakers might say 'I had a loss'. While grammatically correct in English, a direct translation might not always be the most natural Japanese. Often, simply stating the verb 'I lost' (負けました - makemashita) is more common and direct.
Incorrect: 私は負けました。
Correct: 私は負け負けました。
Incorrect: このゲームの負けは、とても悲しいです。
Correct: このゲームの負けは、とても悲しいです。
- 敗北 (haiboku)
- This is a more formal and literary term for 'defeat' or 'loss'. It's often used in historical accounts, news reports about significant battles, or in more serious contexts than the everyday 負け.
- 敗戦 (haisen)
- This specifically refers to a 'lost battle' or 'lost war'. It's used in military or historical contexts and implies a larger scale of conflict than a simple game loss.
- 不戦敗 (fusenpai)
- This means 'loss by default' or 'forfeit'. It's a specific type of loss where a participant doesn't compete, usually due to absence or disqualification.
- 負ける (makeru - verb)
- This is the verb form, meaning 'to lose'. While 負け is the noun 'loss', you use 負ける when describing the action of losing. For example, 'I lost the game' is 'ゲームに負けました' (geemu ni makemashita).
The common word for losing a game is 負け.
A more formal term for defeat, often used in news, is 敗北.
When you want to say 'to lose', you use the verb 負ける.
How Formal Is It?
Fun Fact
The kanji 負 (fu) is composed of the radical 'ichi' (一, one) and 'betsu' (貝, shell), but its phonetic component and meaning are more directly related to the idea of carrying a burden. The evolution of its meaning from 'carrying' to 'losing' is a common semantic shift in many languages.
Pronunciation Guide
- Pronouncing the final 'e' as a long 'ee' sound.
- Adding an unnecessary 'n' sound at the end.
- Confusing it with the verb 負ける (makeru) pronunciation.
Difficulty Rating
At the A2 CEFR level, reading comprehension of 負け is generally straightforward when used in contexts of games and competitions. Understanding its direct meaning requires basic vocabulary knowledge. More nuanced or figurative uses might pose a challenge.
Writing sentences with 負け at the A2 level is manageable. Learners should focus on using it as a noun in simple sentence structures related to games and matches. Avoiding confusion with the verb 負ける is key.
Speaking about losses in a competitive context using 負け is achievable for A2 learners. Practicing phrases like '負けました' or '私の負けです' will build confidence. Ensuring correct pronunciation is important.
Recognizing 負け in spoken Japanese within game or sports contexts is relatively easy for A2 learners, given its common usage and clear pronunciation. Distinguishing it from the verb 負ける might require focused listening practice.
What to Learn Next
Prerequisites
Learn Next
Advanced
Grammar to Know
Using particles like 'が' and 'は' with nouns.
今日の試合は負けでした。(Kyō no shiai wa make deshita.) - Today's match was a loss.
The structure 'Noun + の + Noun'.
試合の負けは悔しい。(Shiai no make wa kuyashii.) - The loss of the match is frustrating.
Using the verb '認める' (mitomeru) with 'を' to mean 'to admit'.
負けを認める (make o mitomeru) - To admit defeat.
Forming adjectives with 'な' (na) before a noun.
悔しい負け (kuyashii make) - A frustrating loss.
Using the potential form of verbs (e.g., 負けられない - makerarenai).
この試合は負けられない！(makerarenai!) - I can't lose this match!
Examples by Level
これは負けです。
This is a loss.
ゲームで負けました。
I lost in the game.
残念な負けでした。
It was a regrettable loss.
私の負けです。
It's my loss.
また負け。
A loss again.
強い相手に負けました。
I lost to a strong opponent.
この負けは痛い。
This loss hurts.
負けを認める。
Admit defeat.
今日の試合は私たちのチームの負けでした。
Today's match was a loss for our team.
The particle 'の' connects 'team' to 'loss' indicating possession or association.
彼はそのゲームでの負けを悔やんでいます。
He regrets the loss in that game.
'悔やんでいます' (kuyande imasu) means 'is regretting'.
この負けは、次の戦いのための良い教訓になるだろう。
This loss will be a good lesson for the next battle.
'ための' (tame no) indicates purpose: 'for the next battle'.
彼女は最初の対戦で負けを経験した。
She experienced a loss in the first match.
'経験した' (keiken shita) means 'experienced'.
惜しい負けだったけど、よく頑張ったよ。
It was a close loss, but you tried your best.
'惜しい' (oshoi) means 'close' or 'regrettable'.
勝負に負けたくない。
I don't want to lose the match.
This uses the verb form '負けたくない' (maketakunai - don't want to lose).
簡単な負けではなかった。
It was not an easy loss.
'簡単な' (kantan na) means 'easy'.
相手の強さによる負けだった。
It was a loss due to the opponent's strength.
'による' (ni yoru) means 'due to' or 'caused by'.
今回の大会での負けは、今後の練習に大きな影響を与えるだろう。
The loss in this tournament will likely have a significant impact on future practice.
'今後の' (kongo no) means 'future'.
彼は、自分の実力不足による負けを素直に認めた。
He honestly admitted the loss was due to his lack of skill.
'実力不足' (jitsuryoku fusoku) means 'lack of skill/ability'.
そのチームは、予想外の負けを喫し、観客を驚かせた。
That team suffered an unexpected loss, surprising the spectators.
'予想外の' (yosougai no) means 'unexpected'. '喫し' (kitsu shi) is a literary form of 'suffered'.
たとえ負けであったとしても、全力を尽くしたことに誇りを持っている。
Even if it was a loss, I am proud of having given my all.
'たとえ～であっても' (tatoe ~ de atte mo) means 'even if'.
この負けを乗り越え、さらに強くなって戻ってきます。
I will overcome this loss and come back even stronger.
'乗り越え' (norikoe) means 'overcome'.
戦略のミスが、この決定的な負けにつながった。
A mistake in strategy led to this decisive loss.
'決定的な' (ketteiteki na) means 'decisive'.
彼は、二度目の負けを経験し、自信を失いかけていた。
He experienced his second loss and was beginning to lose confidence.
'自信を失いかけていた' (jishin o ushinai kakete ita) means 'was beginning to lose confidence'.
この負けは、チームの団結を試すことになるだろう。
This loss will test the team's unity.
'団結' (danketsu) means 'unity'.
彼のキャリアにおけるこの度の負けは、単なる敗北以上の意味合いを持つ。
This loss in his career carries more significance than a mere defeat.
'キャリアにおける' (kyaria ni okeru) means 'in his career'. '単なる～以上の意味合いを持つ' (tannaru ~ ijō no imiai o motsu) means 'carries more meaning than a mere'.
結果論で言えば、あの時の判断ミスがこの負けを招いたと言える。
In hindsight, it can be said that the judgment error at that time invited this loss.
'結果論で言えば' (kekkirond de ieba) means 'in hindsight' or 'speaking in terms of results'.
彼は、敗北の屈辱を乗り越え、精神的な強さを手に入れた。
He overcame the humiliation of defeat and gained mental fortitude.
'屈辱' (kutsujoku) means 'humiliation'. '精神的な強さ' (seishinteki na tsuyosa) means 'mental strength'.
この負けは、我々に謙虚さを思い出させ、さらなる努力を促す。
This loss reminds us of humility and urges further effort.
'謙虚さ' (kenkyosa) means 'humility'. '促す' (unagasu) means 'to urge' or 'prompt'.
スポーツにおける負けは、人生の縮図であり、多くの教訓を含んでいる。
Loss in sports is a microcosm of life, containing many lessons.
'縮図' (shukuzu) means 'microcosm'. '人生の縮図' (jinsei no shukuzu) means 'a microcosm of life'.
彼のプレースタイルは、しばしばリスクを伴い、その結果、大きな負けにつながることもある。
His playing style often involves risks, and as a result, can sometimes lead to significant losses.
'リスクを伴い' (risuku o tomonai) means 'involves risks'.
この負けを糧にして、次回の対戦では必ず勝利を掴むつもりだ。
I intend to use this loss as fuel and definitely seize victory in the next match.
'糧にして' (kate ni shite) means 'to use as food/fuel'.
敗北を喫するたびに、彼は己の弱さと向き合い、成長の機会として捉えてきた。
Each time he suffered defeat, he confronted his weaknesses and viewed it as an opportunity for growth.
'己の弱さ' (onore no yowasa) means 'one's own weaknesses'. '捉えてきた' (toraete kita) means 'has viewed' or 'has perceived'.
彼のキャリアにおけるこの度の負けは、単なる敗北以上の意味合いを持つ。
This loss in his career carries more significance than a mere defeat.
'キャリアにおける' (kyaria ni okeru) means 'in his career'. '単なる～以上の意味合いを持つ' (tannaru ~ ijō no imiai o motsu) means 'carries more meaning than a mere'.
結果論で言えば、あの時の判断ミスがこの負けを招いたと言える。
In hindsight, it can be said that the judgment error at that time invited this loss.
'結果論で言えば' (kekkirond de ieba) means 'in hindsight' or 'speaking in terms of results'.
彼は、敗北の屈辱を乗り越え、精神的な強さを手に入れた。
He overcame the humiliation of defeat and gained mental fortitude.
'屈辱' (kutsujoku) means 'humiliation'. '精神的な強さ' (seishinteki na tsuyosa) means 'mental strength'.
この負けは、我々に謙虚さを思い出させ、さらなる努力を促す。
This loss reminds us of humility and urges further effort.
'謙虚さ' (kenkyosa) means 'humility'. '促す' (unagasu) means 'to urge' or 'prompt'.
スポーツにおける負けは、人生の縮図であり、多くの教訓を含んでいる。
Loss in sports is a microcosm of life, containing many lessons.
'縮図' (shukuzu) means 'microcosm'. '人生の縮図' (jinsei no shukuzu) means 'a microcosm of life'.
彼のプレースタイルは、しばしばリスクを伴い、その結果、大きな負けにつながることもある。
His playing style often involves risks, and as a result, can sometimes lead to significant losses.
'リスクを伴い' (risuku o tomonai) means 'involves risks'.
この負けを糧にして、次回の対戦では必ず勝利を掴むつもりだ。
I intend to use this loss as fuel and definitely seize victory in the next match.
'糧にして' (kate ni shite) means 'to use as food/fuel'.
敗北を喫するたびに、彼は己の弱さと向き合い、成長の機会として捉えてきた。
Each time he suffered defeat, he confronted his weaknesses and viewed it as an opportunity for growth.
'己の弱さ' (onore no yowasa) means 'one's own weaknesses'. '捉えてきた' (toraete kita) means 'has viewed' or 'has perceived'.
敗北の苦渋を舐め尽くした経験こそが、彼の不屈の精神を育んだと言っても過言ではない。
It is no exaggeration to say that the experience of having tasted the bitterness of defeat to the fullest nurtured his indomitable spirit.
'苦渋を舐め尽くした' (kujuu o nametsukushita) means 'having tasted the bitterness to the fullest'. '不屈の精神' (fukutsu no seishin) means 'indomitable spirit'.
この度は、我々の期待を裏切る形での負けであったが、その敗因の分析は今後の糧となるだろう。
Although this was a loss that betrayed our expectations, the analysis of the causes of defeat will likely serve as a foundation for the future.
'期待を裏切る形での' (kitai o uragiru katachi de no) means 'in a form that betrayed expectations'. '敗因の分析' (haiin no bunseki) means 'analysis of the causes of defeat'.
彼は、自らの限界を認め、潔く負けを受け入れた。その姿勢こそが、多くの人々に感銘を与えたのだ。
He acknowledged his own limits and accepted defeat with grace. It was precisely that attitude that impressed many people.
'潔く' (isagiyoku) means 'nobly' or 'with grace'. '感銘を与えた' (kanmei o ataeta) means 'gave an impression' or 'impressed'.
歴史を紐解けば、偉大な勝利の裏には、幾多の痛みを伴う負けが存在することがわかる。
If one delves into history, it becomes clear that behind great victories, there exist numerous painful losses.
'紐解けば' (himotokeba) means 'if one unravels' or 'if one delves into'. '幾多の' (ikuta no) means 'numerous'.
この負けを単なる失敗として片付けるのではなく、未来への布石と捉えるべきである。
This loss should not be dismissed as a mere failure, but rather perceived as a strategic move for the future.
'片付ける' (katazukeru) means 'to put away' or 'dismiss'. '布石' (fuseki) means 'strategic move' or 'laying the groundwork'.
彼は、敗北の淵から立ち上がり、かつてないほどの強靭さを身につけて再起した。
He rose from the brink of defeat and made a comeback, having acquired unprecedented resilience.
'淵' (fuchi) means 'abyss' or 'brink'. '強靭さ' (kyōjin sa) means 'toughness' or 'resilience'.
そのチームの連敗は、単なる実力不足というよりも、組織的な問題に起因する負けであったと分析されている。
The team's consecutive losses are analyzed as being caused by organizational problems rather than mere lack of skill.
'連敗' (renpai) means 'consecutive losses'. '組織的な問題' (soshiki teki na mondai) means 'organizational problems'.
我々は、この負けを教訓とし、より一層精進することで、次なる挑戦に臨む決意を固めた。
We have resolved to take this loss as a lesson and face the next challenge by striving even harder.
'精進する' (shōjin suru) means 'to strive' or 'make earnest efforts'. '臨む' (nozomu) means 'to face' or 'attend'.
Common Collocations
Common Phrases
— I lost / We lost. This is the polite past tense of the verb 負ける (makeru), used to state that you or your group experienced a loss.
残念ながら、試合に負けました。
— It's my loss. A polite way to concede in a game or competition.
あなたの勝ちです。私の負けです。
— To admit defeat. This means acknowledging that you have lost and accepting the outcome.
相手の強さを認めて、負けを認めました。
— Someone who hates to lose; competitive. This describes a personality trait of being very determined not to lose.
彼はとても負けず嫌いなので、練習を頑張っています。
— A frustrating loss. This describes a loss that is particularly disappointing or annoying, often because it was close or felt unfair.
あと少しで勝てたのに、悔しい負けでした。
— A narrow loss; a regrettable loss. This refers to a loss that was very close, where victory was almost achieved.
僅差の、惜しい負けでした。
— A fight that cannot be lost; a must-win battle. This emphasizes the critical importance of winning a particular contest.
これは負けられない戦いだ！
— Loser (often derogatory). This is an informal and often insulting term for someone who consistently loses or is seen as unsuccessful.
彼はいつも負け犬だと思われている。
— A losing match. This is a noun phrase referring to a match that resulted in a loss.
今日の試合は負け試合になってしまいました。
— Not to fear losing. This describes an attitude of being brave and willing to compete without being paralyzed by the possibility of defeat.
彼は負けを恐れない強い心を持っている。
Often Confused With
負け is the noun 'loss', while 負ける is the verb 'to lose'. Learners might incorrectly use 負け as a verb or vice versa. For example, saying 'I 負けました' instead of 'I 負けました' (using the verb form).
This is the direct opposite, meaning 'victory' or 'win'. It's important to distinguish between losing (負け) and winning (勝ち).
While both mean defeat, 敗北 is more formal and often used for significant or military defeats, whereas 負け is common for everyday games and matches.
Idioms & Expressions
— A loser's futile outcry; barking at the moon. This idiom describes someone who, after being defeated or ostracized, complains or boasts loudly when they are out of reach of those they are complaining about.
彼はもう試合には出られないのに、文句ばかり言っている。まさに負け犬の遠吠えだ。
informal— Losing is winning; sometimes it's better to concede. This idiom suggests that in certain situations, strategically losing or conceding can lead to a better long-term outcome or avoid greater trouble.
言い争いをしても無駄だから、ここは負けるが勝ちとしよう。
proverbial— No less than; equally matched; rivaling. This idiom is used to compare two things or people and state that they are equal in quality or ability, or that one is not inferior to the other.
彼の技術は兄に負けず劣らずだ。
neutral— A losing battle; a doomed campaign. While literally meaning a lost battle, it can be used metaphorically to describe a situation where defeat is almost certain from the outset.
その計画は最初から負け戦だとわかっていた。
neutral— A losing move (in games like Go or Shogi). This refers to a move that weakens one's position and leads towards defeat. It can be used metaphorically for any action that leads to a disadvantage.
その発言は、彼にとってまさに負け玉となった。
game-specific, metaphorical— A habit of losing; a losing streak. This refers to a pattern of losing, either due to lack of skill, confidence, or persistent bad luck.
彼は負け癖がついているのか、いつも最後まで諦めない。
informal— Sour grapes; trying to save face after a loss. This describes the act of making excuses or trying to downplay a loss to avoid appearing defeated.
負け惜しみばかり言っていても、現実は変わらない。
neutral— I won't lose! / No way I'll lose! An expression of strong determination and defiance against defeat.
こんなところで負けるものか！
emphatic— There is no mysterious victory in defeat; a loss is a loss. This proverb implies that when you lose, it's usually for clear reasons, and there's no hidden or miraculous way to win after already losing.
彼の敗因は明白だ。負けに不思議の勝ちなし、というだろう。
proverbial— To remain defeated; to keep losing without winning back. This implies a state of continuous loss without any recovery or success.
いつまでも負けっぱなしではいられない。
informalEasily Confused
It's the noun form derived from the verb 'to lose'.
負け is the noun meaning 'loss' or 'defeat'. It refers to the outcome. For example, 'This is a loss.' (これは負けです). The verb is 負ける (makeru), meaning 'to lose'. For example, 'I lost the game.' (ゲームに負けました).
今日のゲームは<span class='bg-emerald-200 dark:bg-emerald-800 px-0.5 rounded'>負け</span>でした。 (Kyō no gēmu wa <span class='bg-emerald-200 dark:bg-emerald-800 px-0.5 rounded'>make</span> deshita.) - Today's game was a loss.
It's the verb form related to 'loss'.
負ける is the verb meaning 'to lose'. It describes the action. For example, 'I will lose.' (負けるでしょう). 負け is the noun form, meaning 'loss'. For example, 'It was a loss.' (それは負けでした).
彼は試合に<span class='bg-emerald-200 dark:bg-emerald-800 px-0.5 rounded'>負け</span>た。(Kare wa shiai ni <span class='bg-emerald-200 dark:bg-emerald-800 px-0.5 rounded'>make</span>ta.) - He lost the match.
Both refer to defeat.
負け is the general, everyday term for 'loss' in games and competitions. 敗北 is a more formal and serious term for 'defeat', often used in news reports, historical contexts, or for significant losses. Example: 彼は試合に負けた (He lost the match) vs. 軍は敗北した (The army was defeated).
昨日の試合の<span class='bg-emerald-200 dark:bg-emerald-800 px-0.5 rounded'>負け</span>は残念でした。(Kinō no shiai no <span class='bg-emerald-200 dark:bg-emerald-800 px-0.5 rounded'>make</span> wa zannen deshita.) - Yesterday's match loss was regrettable.
It's the direct opposite concept.
負け means 'loss' or 'defeat'. 勝ち means 'victory' or 'win'. They are antonyms. Example: 負けと勝ち (make to kachi) - Loss and victory. 負けは悔しいが、勝ちたい。(Make wa kuyashii ga, kachitai.) - The loss is frustrating, but I want to win.
今夜は<span class='bg-emerald-200 dark:bg-emerald-800 px-0.5 rounded'>負け</span>ないぞ！(Kon'ya wa <span class='bg-emerald-200 dark:bg-emerald-800 px-0.5 rounded'>make</span> nai zo!) - I won't lose tonight!
Both relate to the outcome of losing.
負け is the noun for 'loss' itself (the event or result). 敗者 is the noun for 'the loser' (the person or entity that experienced the loss). Example: 負けは辛い。(Make wa tsurai.) - Loss is painful. 負者は静かに去った。(Haisha wa shizuka ni satta.) - The loser left quietly.
この<span class='bg-emerald-200 dark:bg-emerald-800 px-0.5 rounded'>負け</span>で、彼は<span class='bg-emerald-200 dark:bg-emerald-800 px-0.5 rounded'>敗者</span>となった。(Kono <span class='bg-emerald-200 dark:bg-emerald-800 px-0.5 rounded'>make</span> de, kare wa <span class='bg-emerald-200 dark:bg-emerald-800 px-0.5 rounded'>haisha</span> to natta.) - With this loss, he became the loser.
Sentence Patterns
これは[Noun]の[負け]です。
これはゲーム<span class='text-red-500 font-bold'>の</span><span class='bg-emerald-200 dark:bg-emerald-800 px-0.5 rounded'>負け</span>です。
[Noun]で[負け]ました。
ゲーム<span class='text-red-500 font-bold'>で</span><span class='bg-emerald-200 dark:bg-emerald-800 px-0.5 rounded'>負け</span>ました。
[Noun]の[負け]は[Adjective]です。
今日の試合<span class='text-red-500 font-bold'>の</span><span class='bg-emerald-200 dark:bg-emerald-800 px-0.5 rounded'>負け</span><span class='text-red-500 font-bold'>は</span><span class='bg-emerald-200 dark:bg-emerald-800 px-0.5 rounded'>残念</span>です。
[Noun]は[負け]でした。
昨日の対戦<span class='text-red-500 font-bold'>は</span><span class='bg-emerald-200 dark:bg-emerald-800 px-0.5 rounded'>負け</span>でした。
[Noun]に[負け]を認める。
相手<span class='text-red-500 font-bold'>に</span><span class='bg-emerald-200 dark:bg-emerald-800 px-0.5 rounded'>負け</span><span class='text-red-500 font-bold'>を</span>認める。
[Noun]の[負け]は[Noun]の[Noun]になる。
この<span class='bg-emerald-200 dark:bg-emerald-800 px-0.5 rounded'>負け</span><span class='text-red-500 font-bold'>は</span>、<span class='bg-emerald-200 dark:bg-emerald-800 px-0.5 rounded'>次</span><span class='text-red-500 font-bold'>の</span><span class='bg-emerald-200 dark:bg-emerald-800 px-0.5 rounded'>戦い</span><span class='text-red-500 font-bold'>の</span><span class='bg-emerald-200 dark:bg-emerald-800 px-0.5 rounded'>教訓</span>になる。
[Adjective]な[負け]だった。
惜しい<span class='bg-emerald-200 dark:bg-emerald-800 px-0.5 rounded'>負け</span><span class='text-red-500 font-bold'>だった</span>。
[Noun]による[負け]を[Verb]。
実力不足<span class='text-red-500 font-bold'>による</span><span class='bg-emerald-200 dark:bg-emerald-800 px-0.5 rounded'>負け</span><span class='text-red-500 font-bold'>を</span><span class='bg-emerald-200 dark:bg-emerald-800 px-0.5 rounded'>認め</span>る。
Word Family
Nouns
Verbs
Related
How to Use It
High, especially in contexts related to games, sports, and competitions.
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Using 負け as a verb.
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Using the verb 負ける (makeru) when referring to the action of losing.
Learners often confuse the noun 負け (loss) with the verb 負ける (to lose). For example, saying '私は負けました' (Watashi wa make mashita) is incorrect; it should be '私は負けました' (Watashi wa makemashita). Remember, 負け is the result, 負ける is the action.
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Confusing 負け with 敗北 (haiboku).
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Using 負け for everyday games and 敗北 for more formal or significant defeats.
While both mean defeat, 負け is the common, everyday word for losing a game or match. 敗北 is more formal and used for serious defeats like in wars or major sports events. Using 負け for a national defeat would sound too casual.
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Using 負け in non-competitive contexts.
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Using 負け primarily for games, sports, and competitions.
While 負け can be used metaphorically, it's best to stick to its literal meaning in competitive contexts, especially at lower levels. Using it for general life setbacks might sound unnatural or even insensitive.
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Incorrect particle usage.
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Using appropriate particles like 'の' (no) or 'は' (wa) with 負け.
Particles are crucial in Japanese. For example, '試合の負け' (shiai no make) specifies 'the loss of the match'. Saying '試合負け' without the particle might be less clear. Using 'この負けは' (kono make wa) makes 'this loss' the topic.
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Mispronouncing the word.
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Pronouncing 負け with the stress on the first syllable (MA-ke) and a short 'e' sound at the end.
Common errors include stressing the second syllable or using a long 'ee' sound at the end. Clear pronunciation is key to being understood, especially when distinguishing it from the verb 負ける.
Tips
Stress and Vowels
Remember to stress the first syllable: MA-ke. The final 'e' sound is short, like in 'bed', not long like in 'see'. Avoid adding an 'n' sound at the end.
Noun vs. Verb
Always remember 負け is a noun (loss). When you want to say 'to lose', use the verb 負ける (makeru). This is a common point of confusion for learners.
Competitive Scenarios
Focus on using 負け in contexts of games, sports, and competitions. This is where it's most naturally used and understood.
Sound Association
Associate the sound 'make' with making a mistake that leads to a loss. This phonetic link can help you remember that 負け means 'loss'.
Particles
Pay attention to the particles used with 負け. Often, it's followed by の (no) to specify what was lost (e.g., 試合の負け - match's loss) or is the topic marked by は (wa).
Antonyms
Learning the opposite, 勝ち (kachi - victory), can reinforce the meaning of 負け. Understanding both sides of the outcome helps solidify the concept.
Learning from Loss
In Japanese culture, there's an appreciation for learning from defeat. Understand that 負け isn't always seen as purely negative but can be a valuable experience for growth.
Sentence Building
Practice creating simple sentences using 負け, describing the outcome of a game or match you've played or watched. Start with basic structures.
Verb Form
Make sure you also learn the verb 負ける (makeru) as it's intrinsically linked. Knowing both the noun and verb forms will greatly enhance your understanding and usage.
Essential Phrases
Learn key phrases like '負けました' (makemashita - I lost) and '私の負けです' (watashi no make desu - It's my loss) as they are frequently used in conversations.
Memorize It
Mnemonic
Imagine a 'MA'chine that 'KE'eps losing. This machine is always defeated in every game it plays. The sound 'MA-KE' helps remember the word for loss.
Visual Association
Picture a defeated boxer slumped on the canvas, with the word 'MAKE' written in big, red, dripping letters above him, signifying his loss.
Word Web
Challenge
Try to describe a recent game you watched or played. Use the word 負け when talking about the losing team or player. For example, 'The blue team experienced a 負け in the final round.'
Word Origin
The word 負け (make) originates from the verb 負ける (makeru), which has a long history in the Japanese language. The kanji 負 itself has roots in ancient Chinese characters referring to carrying a burden or being defeated.
Original meaning: The kanji 負 originally depicted a person carrying a heavy load on their back, symbolizing a burden or being weighed down. This evolved to mean being defeated or losing, as if burdened by the loss.
JaponicCultural Context
While 負け is a neutral term for loss, using it casually in contexts where someone has suffered a significant personal hardship unrelated to a game might be insensitive. Stick to competitive contexts for A2 learners. Avoid using derogatory terms like 負け犬 unless you are very familiar with the context and relationship.
In English-speaking cultures, 'loss' is also a fundamental concept in competition. However, the cultural emphasis on learning from defeat might be less pronounced or expressed differently. While 'losing is a part of learning' is a common sentiment, the direct acknowledgment and philosophical integration of defeat as a path to growth, as seen in some Japanese contexts, might differ.
Practice in Real Life
Real-World Contexts
Playing board games with friends.
- 私の負けです。
- 残念な負けでした。
- また負けちゃった！
Discussing a sports match.
- 試合の負けは痛い。
- 惜しい負けだったね。
- 次の試合は負けられない。
Talking about video game outcomes.
- このゲームで負けました。
- 強い相手に負けた。
- 負けを認めます。
Reflecting on a competition.
- この負けは教訓になる。
- 悔しい負けだった。
- 負けたくなかった。
Expressing determination.
- 負けられない戦いです。
- 負けず嫌いだから頑張る。
- 負けを恐れず挑戦する。
Conversation Starters
"Did you play any games recently? What was the outcome?"
"What's your favorite type of game or sport?"
"How do you feel when you lose a game?"
"Can you share a time you experienced a particularly frustrating loss?"
"What's more important in a game: winning or trying your best?"
Journal Prompts
Describe a time you experienced a loss in a game or competition. How did you feel, and what did you learn from it?
Think about a person you know who is very competitive. How does their attitude towards winning and losing affect them?
If you could give advice to someone who just experienced a tough loss, what would you say?
Reflect on the difference between a 'loss' and a 'failure'. Are they the same for you?
Imagine you are a sports commentator. Describe a dramatic match that ended in a close loss for one of the teams.
Frequently Asked Questions
10 questionsPrimarily, 負け is used for games, sports, and competitions. While it can be used metaphorically for setbacks in life, this is less common at the A2 level and might sound unnatural. For instance, saying 'life's 負け' is not typical; you'd use other words for hardship or failure.
負け (make) is a noun meaning 'loss' or 'defeat'. 負ける (makeru) is the verb meaning 'to lose'. You use 負け when talking about the outcome itself, like 'The loss was frustrating' (負けは悔しい). You use 負ける when describing the action of losing, like 'I lost the game' (ゲームに負けました).
The most common way is to use the verb 負ける in its past tense form: 負けました (makemashita). For example, 'I lost the match' is '試合に負けました' (Shiai ni makemashita).
While technically possible, for serious defeats like in war or major historical events, more formal terms like 敗北 (haiboku) or 敗戦 (haisen) are preferred. 負け is generally for everyday competitions.
Yes, you can say '私の負けです' (Watashi no make desu) or '私の負けでございます' (Watashi no make de gozaimasu) for a more formal situation. This is a polite way to concede in a game.
The most direct opposite is 勝ち (kachi), meaning 'victory' or 'win'. Another common opposite is 勝利 (shōri), also meaning 'victory', often used for more significant wins.
Generally, no. Losing money is usually described with words like '損' (son - loss, damage) or '失う' (ushinau - to lose). 負け is specifically for competitive outcomes.
負けず嫌い (makezugirai) describes someone who hates to lose. They are very competitive and determined not to be defeated. It's a personality trait.
負け refers to losing in a competition or game. 損 refers to a loss in terms of money, value, or benefit, like a financial loss or damage. For example, you have a 負け in a board game, but you have a 損 if your investment goes down.
Yes, 負け is very common in daily conversation, especially if you or the people you interact with enjoy games, sports, or any form of competition.
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Summary
負け (make) is the noun form meaning 'loss' or 'defeat', commonly used when discussing games, sports, or any competition where there is a clear winner and loser.
- The noun 'make' means a loss or defeat.
- Used in games, sports, and competitions.
- It's the opposite of winning.
Stress and Vowels
Remember to stress the first syllable: MA-ke. The final 'e' sound is short, like in 'bed', not long like in 'see'. Avoid adding an 'n' sound at the end.
Noun vs. Verb
Always remember 負け is a noun (loss). When you want to say 'to lose', use the verb 負ける (makeru). This is a common point of confusion for learners.
Competitive Scenarios
Focus on using 負け in contexts of games, sports, and competitions. This is where it's most naturally used and understood.
Sound Association
Associate the sound 'make' with making a mistake that leads to a loss. This phonetic link can help you remember that 負け means 'loss'.
Example
悔しい負けだった。
Related Content
This Word in Other Languages
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選手
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攻める
A2To initiate an attack or offensive action; to attack.
ボール
A2A spherical object used in games.
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〜前
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A2To cheer for or support a team/player.
コーチ
A2A person who trains and instructs athletes or a team; a coach.
