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A2 verb #5,000 most common 10 min read

昇る

noboru Top 5,000

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips 昇る in 30 Seconds

Explanation 昇る in your Level:

400+w

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips

昇る in 30 Seconds

昇る (noboru) means to rise or move upwards.
Used for the sun rising, smoke ascending, or objects going up.
Distinguish from 上がる (agaru) and 登る (noboru).

Verb Type: Godan verb, intransitive (jidoshi)

Core Meaning: The fundamental meaning of 昇る (noboru) is to move upwards. This can be a literal physical movement or a more abstract progression. It's a common and versatile verb used in a wide range of situations, from describing natural phenomena to the ascent of a person or object.

Natural Phenomena: One of the most frequent uses of 昇る is to describe the sun rising. The phrase 朝日が昇る (asahi ga noboru) is a classic example. It can also be used for other celestial bodies or atmospheric phenomena that ascend, like smoke or clouds moving upwards. Think of a hot air balloon ascending into the sky; that would also be described using 昇る.

Physical Ascent: Beyond nature, 昇る applies to any object or person moving upwards. This could be climbing a mountain (山に登る - yama ni noboru, though 登る is more common for climbing, 昇る can be used for the ascent itself), an elevator going up (エレベーターが昇る - erebētā ga noboru), or even a price increasing (物価が昇る - bukka ga noboru, though 上がる is more common here). The key is the upward trajectory.

Abstract Progression: In a more figurative sense, 昇る can indicate an increase in status, rank, or level. For example, a promotion might be described as a rise in position. While less common than in literal contexts, it captures the idea of moving to a higher level or achieving greater prominence.

Today, the sun will rise earlier than yesterday. 昇る.

The smoke from the campfire began to 昇る into the night sky.

Usage Frequency: 昇る is a moderately frequent verb in Japanese. You will encounter it in news reports about weather, in literature describing nature, and in everyday conversations about upward movement. It's a fundamental verb for describing ascents.

The hot air balloon started to 昇る.

Related Concepts: When thinking about 昇る, consider concepts like 'ascent', 'elevation', 'rise', 'increase', and 'emergence'. These ideas capture the essence of upward movement and progression that the verb conveys. It's about reaching a higher point, whether literally or figuratively.

As the sun began to 昇る, the birds started to sing.

Basic Structure: The most common sentence structure involves a subject marked by the particle 'ga' (が) followed by the verb 昇る (noboru) in its appropriate conjugation. For example, 'The sun rises' is 日が昇る (hi ga noboru). If you are describing something rising towards a specific point or direction, you might use particles like 'ni' (に) or 'e' (へ), though this is less common for the core meaning of 'to rise'.

The morning sun began to 昇る.

Describing Natural Events: This is where 昇る truly shines. You'll often hear it in relation to the sun, moon, or even smoke. For instance, 'The sun is rising' is 日が昇っています (hi ga nobotte imasu). 'Smoke is rising from the chimney' could be 煙突から煙が昇っている (entotsu kara kemuri ga nobotte iru).

The sun is rising beautifully this morning.

Indicating Upward Movement: When something is physically moving upwards, 昇る can be used. For example, 'The balloon is rising' can be 風船が昇っている (fūsen ga nobotte iru). It implies a trajectory towards a higher position.

The prices of goods are starting to 昇る.

Figurative Use (Less Common for A2): While more advanced learners might use 昇る to describe a rise in status or rank, for A2 learners, focusing on the literal upward movement is key. However, you might see it in contexts like 'His fame began to 昇る' (彼の名声が昇り始めた - kare no meisei ga nobori hajimeta), though 上がる is often preferred for abstract rises.

The temperature will 昇る tomorrow.

Past Tense and Continuous: To talk about something that rose in the past, use the past tense form 昇った (nobotta). For ongoing action, use the te-form with いる: 昇っている (nobotte iru). For example, 'The sun rose' is 日が昇った (hi ga notta). 'The smoke is rising' is 煙が昇っている (kemuri ga nobotte iru).

Yesterday, the sun 昇った late.

Weather Forecasts: You will frequently hear 昇る (noboru) in weather reports, especially when discussing the sunrise. Phrases like 'The sun will rise at 6 AM' (午前6時に日が昇ります - gozen roku-ji ni hi ga noborimasu) are very common. It's the standard verb for describing the sun appearing over the horizon.

The weather forecast said the sun would 昇る early today.

Nature Documentaries and Descriptions: When describing natural scenes, especially those involving the sky or atmospheric phenomena, 昇る is often used. You might hear about smoke rising from a volcano, clouds ascending, or even the moon rising. For example, 'Smoke began to 昇る from the mountain' (山から煙が昇り始めた - yama kara kemuri ga nobori hajimeta).

We watched the full moon 昇る over the ocean.

Literature and Poetry: Japanese literature and poetry often use 昇る to evoke imagery of ascent and the beauty of nature. It's a poetic way to describe the sun's daily journey or the upward movement of natural elements, adding a sense of wonder and progression.

In the poem, the author described the sun 昇る behind the mountains.

Everyday Observations: Even in casual conversation, if something is noticeably moving upwards, 昇る might be used. For example, if you're observing a hot air balloon or even a kite flying high, you might say it is 昇っている (nobotte iru). It's a simple yet effective way to describe upward motion.

The steam from the hot pot began to 昇る.

Discussions about Temperature and Prices: While 上がる (agaru) is more common for general increases in price or temperature, 昇る can sometimes be used, particularly in contexts implying a more significant or noticeable rise. For instance, a news report might mention that 'temperatures are expected to 昇る' (気温が昇ると予想される - kion ga noboru to yosō sareru) significantly.

The sun had already 昇る when we woke up.

Confusing with 上がる (agaru): The most frequent mistake for learners is confusing 昇る (noboru) with 上がる (agaru). Both mean 'to rise' or 'to go up'. However, 昇る often implies a more gradual, natural, or continuous ascent, especially for phenomena like the sun, smoke, or abstract concepts. 上がる is more general and can apply to almost anything going up, including physical objects, prices, or levels. For example, when talking about the sun rising, 昇る is preferred. When talking about a price going up, 上がる is more common. Using 昇る for a price increase would sound unnatural.

Incorrect: 物価が昇る (Bukka ga noboru - Prices rise)

Correct: 物価が上がる (Bukka ga agaru - Prices rise)

Confusing with 登る (noboru): Another common mix-up is with 登る (noboru), which also sounds the same but has a different kanji and meaning: 'to climb' or 'to ascend' (often with effort). While both involve upward movement, 登る typically implies a more active, effortful climb, such as climbing a mountain (山に登る - yama ni noboru), stairs, or a ladder. 昇る is more about the state or action of rising itself, often without direct human effort involved, like the sun rising or smoke ascending. Using 昇る to mean 'to climb a mountain' would be incorrect.

Incorrect: 山に昇る (Yama ni noboru - Climb a mountain)

Correct: 山に登る (Yama ni noboru - Climb a mountain)

Using it for 'to fall' or 'to descend': This might seem obvious, but learners sometimes get confused with antonyms. 昇る specifically means to move upwards. Using it to describe something falling or moving downwards would be a significant error. The antonyms are words like 下がる (sagaru - to fall, to go down) or 落ちる (ochiru - to fall).

Incorrect: 太陽が昇った後、月が昇った (Taiyō ga nobutan after, tsuki ga nobotta - After the sun rose, the moon rose - implying the moon fell)

Correct: 太陽が昇った後、月が沈んだ (Taiyō ga nobotta ato, tsuki ga shizunda - After the sun rose, the moon set)

Incorrect Particle Usage: While 昇る is intransitive, learners might mistakenly try to use it with direct objects or incorrect particles. The subject performing the action of rising is usually marked with 'ga' (が). If you were to describe something rising *towards* a specific point, you might use 'ni' (に), but for the basic meaning of 'to rise', 'ga' is standard. For example, 'The sun rises' is 日が昇る (hi ga noboru), not 日を昇る (hi o noboru).

Incorrect: 煙が空を昇った (Kemuri ga sora o nobotta - Smoke rose the sky)

Correct: 煙が空に昇った (Kemuri ga sora ni nobotta - Smoke rose into the sky) or simply 煙が昇った (Kemuri ga nobotta - Smoke rose)

VS. 上がる (agaru): This is the most common point of confusion. Both verbs mean 'to rise' or 'to go up'. However, 昇る (noboru) often implies a more natural, gradual, or continuous ascent, particularly for phenomena like the sun, smoke, or abstract concepts like reputation. It carries a sense of inherent upward movement. On the other hand, 上がる (agaru) is a more general and versatile verb for 'to go up' or 'to increase'. It can apply to physical objects, prices, temperature, levels, and even a person's status.

Example for 昇る: 朝日が昇る (Asahi ga noboru - The morning sun rises). This highlights the natural, daily phenomenon.
Example for 上がる: 物価が上がる (Bukka ga agaru - Prices rise). This refers to an economic increase.
Example where both could be used but with nuance: 気温が昇る (Kion ga noboru) - Temperature rises (implies a more significant, perhaps natural rise). 気温が上がる (Kion ga agaru) - Temperature rises (more general statement). For A2 learners, focusing on 昇る for the sun and natural ascents, and 上がる for general increases is a good starting point.

VS. 登る (noboru): These two verbs sound identical but have different kanji and meanings, leading to frequent confusion. 昇る (noboru) refers to the act or state of rising, often a natural or inherent upward movement. 登る (noboru), with the kanji 登, means 'to climb' or 'to ascend', usually implying active effort. Think of climbing a mountain, stairs, or a ladder.

Example for 昇る: 煙が昇る (Kemuri ga noboru - Smoke rises). This is passive, natural movement.
Example for 登る: 山に登る (Yama ni noboru - To climb a mountain). This requires physical exertion.
Example where nuance matters: An elevator going up could be described as エレベーターが昇る (Erebētā ga noboru - the elevator rises) or エレベーターが上がる (Erebētā ga agaru - the elevator goes up). While 登る isn't typically used for elevators, it highlights the difference between inherent movement (昇る/上がる) and effortful ascent (登る).

VS. 進む (susumu): 進む (susumu) means 'to advance', 'to proceed', or 'to move forward'. While both 昇る and 進む indicate movement, 昇る is specifically about upward movement, whereas 進む is about forward progression in any direction, often towards a goal or a later stage.

Example for 昇る: 朝日が昇る (Asahi ga noboru - The sun rises).
Example for 進む: プロジェクトが進む (Purojekuto ga susumu - The project advances).
Example for 進む: 道を進む (Michi o susumu - To proceed down the road).

VS. 育つ (sodatsu): 育つ (sodatsu) means 'to grow' or 'to be raised'. While growth can imply an increase in size or level, it's a different concept from simply rising. 育つ focuses on development and maturation, whereas 昇る is about vertical movement.

Example for 昇る: 太陽が昇る (Taiyō ga noboru - The sun rises).
Example for 育つ: 子供が育つ (Kodomo ga sodatsu - A child grows up).

VS. 増加する (zōka suru): 増加する (zōka suru) is a more formal verb meaning 'to increase' or 'to multiply'. It's often used for quantities, numbers, or abstract values. While 昇る can imply an increase, 増加する is more direct and often used in statistical or economic contexts. 昇る can be used for abstract rises, but 増加する is more about sheer quantity.

Example for 昇る: 名声が昇る (Meisei ga noboru - Reputation rises - more poetic).
Example for 増加する: 人口が増加する (Jinkō ga zōka suru - Population increases - statistical).

How Formal Is It?

Fun Fact

The kanji 昇 itself visually represents upward movement, with the top part suggesting a sun or light ascending. This visual cue helps reinforce the meaning of the word.

Pronunciation Guide

UK /noʊˈbɔːru/

US /noʊˈbɔːru/

The stress typically falls on the second syllable: no-BO-ru.

Rhymes With

oboru toboru shoboru koboru sororu hororu mororu kororu

Common Errors

Pronouncing 'ru' too strongly like an English 'ru'.
Not stressing the second syllable.
Confusing the vowel sounds in 'bo' and 'ru'.

Difficulty Rating

Reading 3/5

For A2 learners, recognizing 昇る in simple sentences describing the sun or smoke is achievable. Differentiating it from 上がる and 登る requires more practice. Understanding its figurative uses would be challenging.

Writing 3/5

Speaking 3/5

Listening 3/5

What to Learn Next

Prerequisites

太陽 (taiyō) - sun 空 (sora) - sky 煙 (kemuri) - smoke 上がる (agaru) - to rise, to go up 登る (noboru) - to climb

Learn Next

上昇 (jōshō) - noun: rise, ascent 沈む (shizumu) - to sink, to set 下がる (sagaru) - to fall, to go down 進む (susumu) - to proceed, to advance

Advanced

揚がる (agaru) - to be raised, to be lifted (more specific contexts) 騰貴する (tōki suru) - to soar (prices) 飛翔する (hishō suru) - to fly, to soar (birds, planes)

Grammar to Know

Intransitive Verbs (自動詞 - jidōshi)

昇る is an intransitive verb, meaning the subject itself performs the action of rising. It does not take a direct object. Example: 太陽が昇る (The sun rises). Not 太陽を昇る (The sun rises the sun).

Te-form for continuous action or connection

太陽が昇っている (Taiyō ga nobotte iru) - The sun is rising. 昇るにつれて (Noboru ni tsurete) - As it rises...

Past Tense (た形 - ta-kei)

昨日、太陽が昇った (Kinō, taiyō ga notta) - Yesterday, the sun rose.

Potential Form (可能形 - kanōkei)

昇れる (noboreru) - can rise (less common for natural phenomena, more for objects that can be made to rise).

Causative Form (使役形 - shieki-kei)

昇らせる (noboraseru) - to make something rise (e.g., 'to make the balloon rise').

Examples by Level

太陽が昇る。

The sun rises.

Simple present tense, subject + ga + verb.

煙が昇る。

Smoke rises.

Subject + ga + verb, describing a natural phenomenon.

空に鳥が昇る。

Birds rise in the sky.

Subject + ni + verb, indicating direction.

山が昇る。

The mountain rises.

Subject + ga + verb, descriptive.

月が昇る。

The moon rises.

Subject + ga + verb, referring to a celestial body.

気球が昇る。

The balloon rises.

Subject + ga + verb, indicating upward movement.

階段を昇る。

Climb the stairs.

This is a common usage of 登る, but 昇る can sometimes be used for the general idea of ascent. For A1, focus on the sun rising.

風が昇る。

The wind rises.

Subject + ga + verb, describing a natural force.

朝、太陽が昇るのを見るのが好きです。

I like watching the sun rise in the morning.

Using the nominalizer 'no' to make the verb phrase the object of 'miru'.

山の頂上から景色が昇るように見えた。

From the mountaintop, the scenery seemed to rise.

Past tense 'mieta' (seemed to be seen). 'no you ni' for 'as if'.

工場から煙が空に昇っていた。

Smoke was rising into the sky from the factory.

Continuous past tense 'nobotte ita'.

価格が少し昇るだろう。

Prices will probably rise a little.

Using 'darou' for probability. Note: 上がる is more common for prices.

昇る太陽を見ながら、新しい一日が始まる。

Watching the rising sun, a new day begins.

Using the te-form to connect clauses.

熱気球がゆっくりと昇っていった。

The hot air balloon slowly rose.

Past continuous 'nobotte itta'.

この山はとても高く、頂上まで昇るのが大変だ。

This mountain is very high, and it's tough to climb to the summit.

Here 登る (noboru) is more appropriate for climbing. 昇る focuses on the state of rising.

空気が暖かくなって、上昇気流が昇る。

As the air gets warmer, updrafts rise.

Using 'jōshō kiryū' (updraft) to reinforce the meaning.

夜明けとともに、太陽が東の空にゆっくりと昇り始めた。

With the dawn, the sun began to slowly rise in the eastern sky.

Using 'tomo ni' for 'together with' and 'hajimeta' for 'began'.

高層ビルから街を見下ろすと、車が蟻のように小さく見え、まるで地上を昇っていくかのようだった。

Looking down on the city from the skyscraper, the cars looked small like ants, as if they were rising from the ground.

Using 'miorosu' (look down) and 'ka no you datta' (it was as if).

長年の努力が実を結び、彼のキャリアは急速に昇り始めた。

His years of hard work paid off, and his career began to rise rapidly.

Figurative use for career progression. Note: 上がる is often more common for abstract rises.

火山の噴火により、大量の灰が成層圏まで昇っていった。

Due to the volcanic eruption, a large amount of ash rose to the stratosphere.

Describing a large-scale natural event.

昇るにつれて、気温は下がり、空気は澄んでいった。

As it ascended, the temperature dropped, and the air became clearer.

Using 'ni tsurete' for 'as' or 'along with'.

彼の演技は観客の心を捉え、会場は歓声に包まれた。まさにスターダムへと昇る瞬間だった。

His performance captivated the audience, and the venue was filled with cheers. It was truly the moment of rising to stardom.

Figurative use for achieving fame.

この地域では、夏になると日照時間が長く、太陽が昇るのが早い。

In this region, during summer, the daylight hours are long, and the sun rises early.

Contextualizing the sunrise within a season.

昇る滝のような水の流れは、自然の驚異だった。

The upward-flowing water, like a rising waterfall, was a natural wonder.

Describing an unusual natural phenomenon.

黎明の光が地平線から徐々に昇り、夜の帳を払い始めた。

The light of dawn gradually rose from the horizon, beginning to dispel the veil of night.

Using 'reimei' (dawn) and 'yo no tobari' (veil of night).

経済成長に伴い、若年層の所得水準も着実に昇っていくことが期待される。

Along with economic growth, it is expected that the income levels of the younger generation will also steadily rise.

Figurative use for economic indicators.

その芸術家の作品は、次第に評価を高め、国際的な名声へと昇っていった。

The artist's works gradually gained recognition, ascending to international fame.

Describing the rise in artistic reputation.

火山の活動が活発化し、噴煙が成層圏を突き破って昇る様子は、畏敬の念を抱かせた。

The intensifying volcanic activity and the sight of the smoke plume piercing and rising through the stratosphere inspired awe.

Using 'katsuyōka shi' (intensifying) and 'tsukiyabutte' (piercing through).

標高が高くなるにつれて、空気の密度が減少し、音の伝わり方も変化し、独特の静寂が昇ってくるかのような感覚を覚えた。

As the altitude increased, the air density decreased, the way sound traveled changed, and I felt a sense of unique silence ascending.

Describing sensory perceptions at high altitudes.

彼のリーダーシップはチームを団結させ、困難な状況を乗り越え、組織全体の士気を昇らせることに成功した。

His leadership united the team, helped them overcome difficult situations, and successfully raised the morale of the entire organization.

Using 'shiki' (morale) and 'nosaseru' (to raise, causative form of agaru/noboru).

この地域特有の気象現象として、夏季には局地的な上昇気流が発達し、積乱雲が急速に昇ることが観測されている。

As a unique meteorological phenomenon of this region, it has been observed that localized updrafts develop in summer, causing cumulonimbus clouds to rise rapidly.

Technical meteorological terminology.

古来より、太陽の昇る様は再生と希望の象徴として、多くの文化で崇拝されてきた。

Since ancient times, the rising of the sun has been worshipped in many cultures as a symbol of rebirth and hope.

Historical and cultural context of the sunrise.

地平線から昇る太陽の神々しい光芒は、古来より人々に畏敬の念と生命の息吹を感じさせてきた。

The divine radiance of the sun rising from the horizon has, since ancient times, made people feel awe and the breath of life.

Using 'kōbō' (radiance) and 'seimei no ibuki' (breath of life).

グローバル経済の複雑な相互作用の中で、新興国の経済指標は緩やかに、しかし着実に昇っていく傾向にある。

Within the complex interplay of the global economy, economic indicators of emerging countries tend to rise slowly but steadily.

Abstract economic concepts and nuanced progression.

その作家の文学的地位は、各作品を発表するごとに抽象的な概念の深淵へと昇り詰め、批評家たちの称賛を浴び続けた。

With each published work, the writer's literary status ascended to the abyss of abstract concepts, continuously receiving praise from critics.

Figurative and metaphorical use for literary achievement.

大気圏を突破し、宇宙空間へと昇っていくロケットの轟音は、人類の探求心の高まりを象徴していた。

The roar of the rocket breaking through the atmosphere and ascending into outer space symbolized the rise of humanity's spirit of exploration.

Describing a technological feat and its symbolic meaning.

標高が上がるにつれて、空気の希薄化は顕著になり、人間の生理機能は極限へと昇っていく感覚に襲われる。

As the altitude increases, the thinning of the air becomes noticeable, and human physiological functions are struck by a feeling of ascending to their limits.

Detailed description of physiological effects.

彼の戦略的洞察力は、組織の停滞期を打破し、競争優位性を確立するべく、企業文化の根幹から士気を昇らせることに成功した。

His strategic insight succeeded in breaking through the organization's stagnation period and raising the morale from the core of the corporate culture to establish competitive advantage.

Complex strategic and organizational context.

この地域特有の気象現象は、夏季における局地的な大規模上昇気流の発達と、それに伴う積乱雲の急速な昇天であり、気象学的な驚異として注目されている。

The unique meteorological phenomenon of this region is the development of localized large-scale updrafts in summer and the subsequent rapid ascent of cumulonimbus clouds, attracting attention as a meteorological marvel.

Advanced meteorological terminology and descriptive language.

古代文明において、太陽の昇る様はしばしば神聖な出来事と見なされ、宇宙の秩序と生命の永続性の象徴として、宗教儀式や神話の中心に据えられてきた。

In ancient civilizations, the rising of the sun was often regarded as a divine event, and it has been placed at the center of religious rituals and myths as a symbol of cosmic order and the perpetuity of life.

Deep historical and mythological context.

黎明の光芒が地平線から緩やかに昇り、宇宙の静寂を破りながら、生命の誕生を告げるかのような叙情性を帯びていた。

The dawn radiance rose gently from the horizon, carrying a lyrical quality as if announcing the birth of life while breaking the silence of the cosmos.

Highly poetic and philosophical language.

グローバル資本主義のダイナミズムの中で、新興国の経済的浮沈は、単なる数値の増減を超え、歴史的潮流の昂ぶりとして捉え直されるべきである。

Within the dynamism of global capitalism, the economic ups and downs of emerging countries should be re-examined not merely as increases and decreases in numbers, but as the surge of historical currents.

Complex socio-economic analysis and metaphorical language.

その作家の深遠なる思索は、人間の存在論的深淵へと昇り詰め、読者の認識の地平を永遠に拡張する。

The writer's profound contemplation ascends to the ontological abyss of human existence, eternally expanding the reader's horizon of perception.

Philosophical and existential themes.

地球の大気圏を離れ、未知なる宇宙空間へと昇っていく探査機の軌跡は、人類の知的好奇心の飽くなき探求の証左である。

The trajectory of the probe, leaving Earth's atmosphere and ascending into unknown outer space, is evidence of humanity's insatiable quest for intellectual curiosity.

Scientific and philosophical implications of space exploration.

極限環境下における生理的適応は、人間の身体能力の限界を押し広げ、生存という根源的な衝動が極致へと昇っていく様を露呈する。

Physiological adaptation under extreme conditions pushes the boundaries of human physical capabilities, revealing the fundamental drive for survival ascending to its ultimate.

Detailed biological and psychological analysis.

彼の経営手腕は、組織の官僚主義的停滞を打破し、イノベーションの触媒として機能することで、企業全体の持続的成長を牽引し、その競争的優位性を盤石なものにした。

His management prowess broke through the organization's bureaucratic stagnation, acting as a catalyst for innovation, thereby driving the sustainable growth of the entire company and solidifying its competitive advantage.

Sophisticated business and management terminology.

この地域特有の対流圏における大規模な積乱雲の急速な発生と発達は、局地的な熱力学的勾配と水蒸気の飽和度の上昇が複合的に作用した結果であり、気象学の観点から極めて興味深い。

The rapid formation and development of large cumulonimbus clouds in the troposphere, unique to this region, is the result of a complex interplay of localized thermodynamic gradients and the rise in water vapor saturation, making it extremely interesting from a meteorological perspective.

Highly technical and analytical meteorological description.

古代宇宙論における太陽の昇る様は、単なる天体現象に留まらず、宇宙の生成、秩序、そして永続性の根源的な象徴として、形而上学的な思索の核を成していた。

In ancient cosmology, the rising of the sun was not merely a celestial phenomenon but formed the core of metaphysical speculation as a fundamental symbol of cosmic creation, order, and perpetuity.

Deep philosophical and cosmological interpretation.

Common Collocations

太陽が昇る

煙が昇る

月が昇る

気温が昇る

物価が昇る

声が昇る

希望が昇る

気球が昇る

歴史に昇る

頂上へ昇る

Common Phrases

太陽が昇る

— The sun rises.

毎朝、太陽が昇るのを見て一日を始める。

煙が昇る

— Smoke rises.

ストーブから煙がゆっくりと昇っている。

空に昇る

— To rise into the sky.

鳥が空に昇っていく様子は美しい。

昇り調子

— An upward trend; on the rise.

最近、彼の人気は昇り調子だ。

昇るにつれて

— As one goes up; with ascent.

標高が昇るにつれて、気温が下がった。

昇る太陽

— Rising sun.

昇る太陽の光は暖かかった。

昇るような

— Like something rising; soaring.

彼の歌声は天に昇るようだった。

昇る炎

— Rising flame.

火事の炎が激しく昇っていた。

昇る勢い

— Momentum of rising; upward momentum.

その会社の業績は昇る勢いがある。

昇るべき

— Should rise; ought to rise.

夜明けと共に、太陽は昇るべきだ。

Often Confused With

昇る vs 上がる (agaru)

Both mean 'to rise', but 上がる is more general for prices, temperature, or objects. 昇る is for natural, continuous ascents like the sun or smoke.

昇る vs 登る (noboru)

Sounds the same but means 'to climb' with effort (mountain, stairs). 昇る is about the state of rising itself.

昇る vs 下がる (sagaru)

This is an antonym, meaning 'to fall' or 'go down'.

Idioms & Expressions

"日の昇る国"

— Land of the rising sun (a poetic reference to Japan).

日本は日の昇る国として知られています。

Poetic/Cultural

"昇り龍"

— A rising dragon (symbolizing rapid growth, success, or power).

彼の career はまさに昇り龍のようだ。

Figurative/Symbolic

"昇るか沈むか"

— Sink or swim; a critical juncture.

このプロジェクトは成功すれば昇るか沈むかの瀬戸際だ。

Figurative/Situational

"昇るような"

— Soaring; like rising to the heavens (used to describe a voice, music, or a feeling).

彼女の歌声は、まるで天に昇るようだった。

Figurative/Descriptive

"昇るべきか"

— Whether to rise (often implies a choice or a destined path).

夜明けと共に、新たな道へ昇るべきか悩んでいた。

Figurative/Existential

"昇る太陽"

— The rising sun (symbolizing hope, new beginnings, or power).

昇る太陽のように、未来は明るい。

Symbolic/Figurative

"昇るにつれて"

— As one ascends; with increasing altitude.

山を昇るにつれて、景色はどんどん変わっていった。

Literal/Descriptive

"昇る勢い"

— Momentum of rising; upward momentum.

その会社の株価は昇る勢いが止まらない。

Figurative/Economic

"昇るような人気"

— Soaring popularity.

そのアイドルグループの人気は昇るような勢いだ。

Figurative/Social

"昇るべき道"

— The path to ascend; the path to success or higher status.

彼は成功への昇るべき道を探していた。

Figurative/Aspirational

Easily Confused

昇る vs 上がる (agaru)

Both verbs express the concept of 'rising' or 'going up'.

昇る (noboru) typically refers to a more natural, continuous, or inherent upward movement, like the sun rising or smoke ascending. It often carries a slightly more poetic or descriptive nuance. 上がる (agaru) is a more general-purpose verb for 'going up' or 'increasing'. It can be used for physical objects moving upwards (like a balloon, though 昇る can also be used), prices, temperature, levels, or even a person's status. For example, while you might say 'the sun rises' (太陽が昇る), you would more commonly say 'prices are rising' (物価が上がる).

太陽が昇る (The sun rises - natural ascent). 物価が上がる (Prices rise - general increase).

昇る vs 登る (noboru)

They are homophones, meaning they sound exactly the same.

昇る (noboru) describes the act or state of rising, often passively or naturally, like the sun or smoke. 登る (noboru), with the kanji 登, specifically means 'to climb' or 'to ascend' with effort. This implies active participation, such as climbing a mountain (山に登る), stairs (階段を登る), or a tree. While both involve upward movement, 登る emphasizes the exertion involved in the climb.

煙が昇る (Smoke rises - passive/natural). 山に登る (To climb a mountain - active/effortful).

昇る vs 下がる (sagaru)

It is a direct antonym, representing the opposite direction of movement.

昇る means to move upwards, while 下がる means to move downwards or decrease. They represent opposite directions of vertical movement. For instance, the sun rises (昇る) and then sets (沈む), and temperatures might rise (昇る or 上がる) and then fall (下がる).

太陽が昇る (The sun rises). 気温が下がる (The temperature falls).

昇る vs 沈む (shizumu)

It is an antonym, particularly in the context of celestial bodies.

昇る means to rise (like the sun), while 沈む means to sink (in water) or to set (for the sun or moon). They are opposite actions related to vertical movement and the daily cycle of celestial bodies. The sun rises in the east (昇る) and sets in the west (沈む).

太陽が昇る (The sun rises). 月が沈む (The moon sets).

昇る vs 上昇する (jōshō suru)

It is a more formal verb with a similar meaning to 昇る.

昇る is a common verb used in everyday language and literature to describe rising. 上昇する is a more formal, often technical or scientific, term for 'to rise' or 'ascend'. While 昇る is used for the sun rising, 上昇する might be used in reports about 'rising temperatures' (気温の上昇) or 'ascending trajectories' (上昇軌道). They are largely synonymous but differ in formality.

太陽が昇る (The sun rises - everyday). 気温が上昇する (Temperature rises - formal/technical).

Sentence Patterns

Noun + が + 昇る。

太陽が昇る。

Noun + が + 昇っている。

煙が昇っている。

Noun + が + 昇る + のを見る。

太陽が昇るのを見る。

Noun + に + 昇る。

空に昇る。

Noun + が + 昇る + につれて + Clause。

標高が昇るにつれて、空気が薄くなった。

Noun + が + 昇り始めた。

太陽が昇り始めた。

Noun + は + 昇る + 傾向がある。

物価は昇る傾向がある。

Figurative: Noun + が + 昇る。

彼の名声が昇る。

Word Family

Verbs

昇る

上昇 (jōshō) - noun: rise, ascent

昇進 (shōshin) - noun: promotion

昇給 (shōkyū) - noun: pay raise

昇華 (shōka) - noun: sublimation (chemistry, figurative)

昇降 (shōkō) - noun: ascent and descent

How to Use It

frequency

Moderately high, especially in contexts involving nature and upward movement.

Common Mistakes

Using 昇る for prices or salaries. → Use 上がる (agaru) or 増加する (zōka suru).
While 昇る implies rising, it's typically for natural, continuous ascents like the sun or smoke. For economic increases like prices or salaries, 上がる is the standard and more natural verb.
Confusing 昇る (noboru) with 登る (noboru). → 昇る means to rise (sun, smoke). 登る means to climb (mountain, stairs).
These words are homophones (sound the same) but have different kanji and meanings. 昇る describes natural or passive upward movement, while 登る describes active climbing with effort. For example, smoke rises (煙が昇る), but you climb a mountain (山に登る).
Using 昇る for general downward movement. → Use 下がる (sagaru) or 落ちる (ochiru).
昇る specifically means to move upwards. Its antonyms, 下がる or 落ちる, should be used for things that fall or go down. For example, if the sun rises (昇る), it eventually sets (沈む), and temperatures might fall (下がる).
Using 昇る with a direct object particle 'を'. → Subject + が + 昇る.
昇る is an intransitive verb (自動詞 - jidōshi). The subject itself is what is rising. You don't 'rise something' with 昇る. For example, 'The sun rises' is 太陽が昇る, not 太陽を昇る.
Using 昇る for abstract concepts when a more specific verb exists. → Consider context; 上がる or 増加する might be better for abstract rises.
While 昇る can be used poetically for abstract rises (like fame), it's often less direct than 上がる or 増加する. For example, 'his reputation rose' could be 名声が上がった or even 名声が昇った, but 名声が上がった is more common and less literary.

Tips

Mastering the 'ru' sound

The final 'ru' in 昇る is a flap sound, not a hard 'r' like in English. Practice saying 'ladder' or 'butter' in American English to get the feel for this sound. It's a quick tap of the tongue against the roof of your mouth.

Visualizing the Kanji

Look closely at the kanji 昇. Imagine the sun (日) moving upwards. This visual cue can strongly link the character to its meaning of 'to rise'.

Sun vs. Smoke

Remember that 昇る is perfect for the sun rising (太陽が昇る) and smoke rising (煙が昇る). These are classic examples that help solidify the verb's core meaning.

Noboru vs. Noboru

Be mindful of the two different verbs pronounced 'noboru'. 昇る is for rising, while 登る is for climbing. The kanji is the key differentiator.

Beyond the Literal

While focusing on literal rising is important for beginners, be aware that 昇る can also be used figuratively for things like reputation or fame increasing, though 上がる is often more common for abstract rises.

Sentence Building

Create your own sentences using 昇る. Describe a sunrise, rising smoke, or even a balloon. The more you practice, the more natural it will become.

Hear it in Action

Listen to Japanese weather forecasts or nature documentaries. You'll often hear 昇る used to describe the sunrise or other natural ascents.

Knowing the Opposite

Understanding the antonyms like 下がる (sagaru - to fall) or 沈む (shizumu - to set) helps reinforce the meaning of 昇る by contrasting it with downward movement.

Sound-Alikes

Pay attention to words that sound similar, like 上がる (agaru) and 登る (noboru). Context and kanji are crucial for distinguishing their meanings.

Symbolism of Sunrise

Connect 昇る with the cultural significance of the sunrise in Japan, symbolizing hope and new beginnings. This association can make the word more memorable.

Memorize It

Mnemonic

Imagine the 'sun' (日) 'rising' (昇) to give 'life' (生). The kanji 昇 looks like a sun ascending. Think of the sun 'nobor-ing' up into the sky.

Visual Association

Picture the sun (日) with rays extending upwards, like the character 昇. Visualize a hot air balloon with the sun rising behind it.

Word Web

Sun Sky Morning Rise Ascend Up Light Hope Smoke Balloon

Challenge

Try to describe three things you see rising in your environment today, using 昇る in your sentences. For example, 'The steam from my coffee is rising' (コーヒーの湯気が昇っている).

Word Origin

The verb 昇る (noboru) originates from Old Japanese. Its kanji, 昇, itself is composed of '日' (sun) and '生' (life/birth), suggesting an early association with the rising sun and the dawn of life. The character's form depicts something ascending.

Original meaning: To ascend, to rise, especially referring to the sun or celestial bodies.

Japonic languages

Cultural Context

The word 昇る itself is neutral and does not carry any negative connotations. Its usage is generally positive, associated with natural beauty and beginnings. However, as with any word, context is key. When discussing abstract concepts like 'rising' status or prices, ensure the appropriate verb (like 上がる or 増加する) is used to avoid misinterpretation.

In English-speaking cultures, the sunrise is also a symbol of hope and new beginnings, often evoked in poetry, songs, and art. Phrases like 'the dawn breaks' or 'the sun climbs the sky' convey a similar sense of upward movement and optimism.

The phrase '日の昇る国' (Hi no Noboru Kuni), meaning 'Land of the Rising Sun', is a common poetic and historical reference to Japan. Hatsuhinode (初日の出), the first sunrise of the New Year, is a significant cultural event in Japan, often celebrated with gatherings and wishes for good fortune. Many Japanese poems and songs feature the imagery of the rising sun as a symbol of hope, renewal, and the start of a new day.

Practice in Real Life

Real-World Contexts

Describing the sunrise.

朝日が昇る (asahi ga noboru) - the morning sun rises
日の出 (hinode) - sunrise
昇る太陽 (noboru taiyō) - rising sun

Describing smoke or steam.

煙が昇る (kemuri ga noboru) - smoke rises
湯気が昇る (yuge ga noboru) - steam rises
空に昇る (sora ni noboru) - rises into the sky

Describing upward movement of objects.

気球が昇る (kikyū ga noboru) - balloon rises
風船が昇る (fūsen ga noboru) - balloon rises

Weather and temperature.

気温が昇る (kion ga noboru) - temperature rises
上昇気流 (jōshō kiryū) - updraft

Figurative uses (more advanced).

名声が昇る (meisei ga noboru) - reputation rises
人気が昇る (ninki ga noboru) - popularity rises

Comparing with similar verbs.

上がる vs 昇る (agaru vs noboru)
登る vs 昇る (noboru vs noboru)

Conversation Starters

"What's your favorite thing about the morning?"

"Do you enjoy watching the sunrise?"

"What kind of things do you see rising in the sky where you live?"

"Have you ever seen a hot air balloon rise?"

"What are your thoughts on the difference between 'rising' and 'climbing'?"

Journal Prompts

Describe a beautiful sunrise you have witnessed. Use the word 昇る (noboru) to describe the sun's movement.

Think about a time when something in your life felt like it was 'rising' or improving. How would you describe that feeling using Japanese vocabulary?

Imagine you are writing a poem about nature. How would you incorporate the verb 昇る (noboru) to describe natural phenomena like smoke, clouds, or the moon?

Compare and contrast the verbs 昇る (noboru), 上がる (agaru), and 登る (noboru). Write sentences illustrating their different uses.

What does the concept of 'rising' symbolize to you? Does it represent hope, progress, or something else? Reflect on this and write your thoughts.

Frequently Asked Questions

10 questions

Both mean 'to rise' or 'to go up'. 昇る is often used for natural, continuous ascents like the sun rising or smoke ascending. It can sound more poetic. 上がる is more general and can be used for prices, temperature, or almost anything moving upwards. For example, 'The sun rises' is 太陽が昇る, but 'Prices are rising' is 物価が上がる.

They sound the same but have different kanji and meanings. 昇る (noboru) means to rise or ascend naturally (like the sun). 登る (noboru) means to climb with effort, like climbing a mountain (山に登る) or stairs (階段を登る).

While technically possible in a poetic sense, it's much more common and natural to use 上がる (agaru) or 増加する (zōka suru) for prices, salaries, or general increases. Using 昇る might sound unusual or overly literary in these contexts.

Yes, it's also used for natural phenomena like smoke rising from a fire (煙が昇る), steam rising (湯気が昇る), or even abstract concepts in a more literary way, like 'fame rising' (名声が昇る). For objects like balloons, both 昇る and 上がる can be used, with 昇る perhaps implying a more graceful ascent.

The main opposites are 下がる (sagaru - to fall, go down) and 落ちる (ochiru - to fall, drop). For celestial bodies, 沈む (shizumu - to set) is the opposite of 昇る.

It is pronounced no-BO-ru, with the stress on the second syllable. The 'ru' is a light flap sound, similar to the 'dd' in the American English word 'ladder'.

Yes, the past tense is 昇った (nobotta). For example, 'The sun rose this morning' would be '今朝、太陽が昇った (kesa, taiyō ga notta)'.

The kanji 昇 visually depicts something ascending. It is composed of elements that suggest the sun (日) rising or moving upwards, often associated with birth or life.

Yes, 昇る is a moderately common verb, especially when discussing natural phenomena like the sunrise. You will encounter it frequently in weather reports, literature, and general descriptions of upward movement.

Use 昇る when referring to natural, continuous ascents like the sun, moon, or smoke. It often carries a more poetic or descriptive feel. Use 上がる for more general upward movements, price increases, or temperature changes.