The concept of running out of something is very basic. At this level, learners might encounter simple phrases like 'パンがない' (pan ga nai - no bread) rather than the more nuanced 'パン切れ'. However, the idea of something being 'gone' is understandable.
Learners at A2 might start to recognize '〜切れ' in very common, fixed expressions like '充電切れ' (jūden gire - out of charge) or '時間切れ' (jikangire - time's up) in simple contexts. They might not yet be able to produce it themselves but can understand it when heard.
This is the target level. Learners should be able to understand and use '〜切れ' in common situations involving consumables, resources, or deadlines. They can form phrases like '牛乳切れ' (gyūnyū gire - out of milk) and understand its implications. They can also differentiate it from simple ending.
At B2, learners can use '〜切れ' more flexibly, understanding its nuances. They can explain its meaning and differentiate it from similar expressions. They can also use it in slightly more complex sentences and understand it in a wider range of contexts, including more abstract concepts.
Proficient users can employ '〜切れ' with precision, understanding its subtle connotations and using it in sophisticated language. They can analyze its grammatical function and its role in conveying specific shades of meaning, such as urgency or finality.
Near-native speakers use '〜切れ' effortlessly, recognizing its idiomatic uses and historical roots. They can employ it in formal and informal settings, understanding its cultural implications and its presence in various literary and spoken registers.

〜切れ in 30 Seconds

  • 〜切れ (gire) is a suffix meaning 'ran out', 'finished', or 'cut off'.
  • Used with nouns to indicate depletion of supplies or resources.
  • Common in phrases like 'パン切れ' (out of bread) or '時間切れ' (time's up).
  • Emphasizes the state of absence or shortage.
Core Meaning
The suffix '〜切れ' (ぎれ - gire) is attached to the stem of a verb or a noun to indicate that something has run out, is finished, is cut off, or has ended. It often carries a sense of depletion or cessation.
Common Applications
You will frequently encounter '〜切れ' when talking about supplies running out (e.g., food, money, patience), or when an action has been interrupted or completed. It can also describe a state of being cut off or disconnected.
Nuance of Depletion
A key aspect of '〜切れ' is the implication that the item or state it refers to is no longer available or present. It's not just about ending, but about an absence resulting from the ending.

The bread supply is running out. パン切れ.

My patience has run out. 我慢の限界が来て、もう切れそうだ.

Examples of Usage
It can be used for tangible things like food ('食料切れ' - shokuryō gire - food shortage) or money ('金切れ' - kingire - out of money), and also for intangible things like energy ('気力切れ' - kiryokugire - loss of energy) or even a connection ('回線切れ' - kaisen gire - connection cut off).
Versatility
The suffix can be attached to various nouns, making it a versatile tool for expressing the idea of something being finished or gone. Understanding this suffix will significantly enhance your ability to comprehend everyday Japanese conversations and texts.
Beyond Simple Ending
While '〜終わる' (owaru - to end) or '〜なくなる' (nakunaru - to disappear) can sometimes convey a similar meaning, '〜切れ' specifically emphasizes the state of being depleted or having run out, often implying a lack or shortage.
Forming Noun Phrases
The most common way to use '〜切れ' is by directly attaching it to a noun. This forms a new noun that signifies the depletion or absence of the original noun. For example, 'パン' (pan - bread) becomes 'パン切れ' (pangire - bread shortage or out of bread).

We are out of milk. 牛乳切れです。

With Verb Stems (Less Common for Learners)
In some cases, '〜切れ' can be attached to the stem of a verb, though this is less frequent for learners and might sound more literary or specific. For instance, from '切る' (kiru - to cut), you might see '切り切れ' (kirikire) in certain contexts, but focusing on noun attachments is more practical.
As a Predicate
The phrase formed with '〜切れ' can function as the predicate of a sentence, often with 'です' (desu) or 'だ' (da) for politeness or emphasis. For example, '電池切れ' (denchi gire - out of batteries) can be used in a sentence like 'スマートフォンの電池切れ' (sumātofon no denchi gire - the smartphone is out of battery).

The train is delayed due to a signal failure. 信号切れのため、電車が遅れています。

Expressing Urgency or Problem
Using '〜切れ' can effectively convey a sense of urgency or a problem. When you say '時間切れ' (jikangire - time is up), it clearly indicates a deadline has passed or a situation is critical.
Common Sentence Structures
You'll often see sentences like: '[Noun] + 切れ + です/だ' (e.g., '水切れです' - Mizugire desu - We're out of water). Or '[Noun] + が + 切れ + て + いる' (e.g., '薬が切れている' - Kusuri ga kirete iru - The medicine has run out).
Connecting to Actions
'〜切れ' can also be linked to actions that are interrupted. For instance, '充電切れ' (jūden gire - out of charge) implies that a device stopped working because its battery died.
Daily Conversations
You'll hear '〜切れ' constantly in everyday life. When someone says 'あ、お菓子切れちゃった!' (A, okashi kire chatta! - Oh, we've run out of snacks!), it's a very natural way to express that the snacks are gone.
At Home and in Shops
In a household setting, you might hear '醤油切れ' (shōyu gire - out of soy sauce) or 'トイレットペーパー切れ' (toiretto pēpā gire - out of toilet paper). In shops, signs might indicate '品切れ' (shōhin gire - out of stock) for popular items.

The store has a sign saying 'Sold Out'. 品切れです。

Workplace Scenarios
In a professional environment, you might hear about '予算切れ' (yosan gire - out of budget) or '時間切れ' (jikangire - time limit reached) during meetings or project discussions.
Technology and Connectivity
When using electronic devices, '充電切れ' (jūden gire - out of charge) is a very common phrase. For online activities, '回線切れ' (kaisen gire - connection lost) or 'サーバー切れ' (sābā gire - server down) are also frequently heard.
Expressing Frustration or Limits
People use '〜切れ' to express their limits. For example, '我慢の限界が来て、もう切れそうだ' (Gaman no genkai ga kite, mō kire sō da - My patience is at its limit, it's about to run out) shows a strong emotional state.

My phone battery is dead. 充電切れです。

News and Announcements
In official announcements or news reports, you might hear about '生産終了' (seisan shūryō - production end), which is related to the concept of something being finished, but '〜切れ' is more about the immediate lack or depletion.
Confusing with Simple Ending
A common mistake is to use '〜切れ' when a simple verb like '終わる' (owaru - to end) or 'なくなる' (nakunaru - to disappear) would be more appropriate. '〜切れ' specifically implies depletion or running out, not just a general ending.
Incorrect Attachment
Learners might mistakenly try to attach '〜切れ' to adjectives or verbs directly. It's primarily used with nouns. For example, saying '速切れ' (hayagire) would be incorrect; you'd need a noun like '時間切れ' (jikangire - time limit).

Incorrect: 速切れです。 Correct: 時間切れです。

Overusing '〜切れ' for Non-Depletable Items
'〜切れ' is best suited for things that can be used up or depleted. Using it for items that are generally not consumed, like '机切れ' (tsukugire - out of desks), would sound very unnatural.
Misunderstanding Nuance
Sometimes, learners might use '〜切れ' to describe something that is simply broken or malfunctioning, when a word like '故障' (koshō - breakdown) would be more accurate. For instance, a broken phone is not '充電切れ' (jūden gire), unless the battery is the sole reason for it not working.
Ignoring Context
The context is crucial. While '切れ' can mean 'cut off' in some contexts (like '回線切れ' - connection cut off), it primarily signifies depletion for most common uses. Assuming it always means 'cut off' can lead to misunderstandings.
Using the Verb Form Incorrectly
While the verb '切る' (kiru - to cut) is the root, directly using its forms with the meaning of 'running out' can be confusing. For example, saying 'パンを切った' (pan o kitta - I cut bread) does not mean you ran out of bread. The suffix '〜切れ' specifically carries the 'running out' meaning.
〜がなくなる (ga nakunaru)
This is a very common alternative, meaning 'to run out of' or 'to disappear'. It's often interchangeable with '〜切れ' for many consumable items.

Comparison:
• 'パンがなくなった' (Pan ga nakunatta) - The bread ran out.
• 'パン切れ' (Pangire) - Bread shortage/out of bread.
Both are natural, but '〜切れ' can sometimes sound more abrupt or emphasize the state of depletion.
〜が終わる (ga owaru) / 〜終了 (shūryō)
These mean 'to end' or 'completion'. They are used for events, tasks, or periods, not typically for consumable items running out.

Comparison:
• '会議が終わった' (Kaigi ga owatta) - The meeting ended.
• '時間切れ' (Jikangire) - Time limit reached.
'〜切れ' is used when a resource or duration is depleted, while '終わる' is about the conclusion of an activity.
品切れ (shōhin gire)
This is a specific compound word meaning 'out of stock' or 'sold out'. It's a direct application of '〜切れ' to the noun '品物' (shinamono - goods, items).

Comparison:
• '在庫切れ' (zaiko gire) - Out of stock (more general for inventory).
• '品切れ' (shōhin gire) - Out of stock (specifically for items for sale).
〜不足 (fuso ku)
This means 'shortage' or 'lack of'. It's similar to '〜切れ' but can imply a less severe or absolute lack.

Comparison:
• '水不足' (mizu busoku) - Water shortage (could mean limited supply, not necessarily zero).
• '水切れ' (mizugire) - Out of water (implies no water left).
〜が切れる (ga kireru)
This is the verb form, meaning 'to run out', 'to be cut off', or 'to expire'. It's the verb that '〜切れ' is derived from.

Comparison:
• '電池が切れた' (Denchi ga kireta) - The battery ran out.
• '電池切れ' (Denchi gire) - Out of battery (state of depletion).

How Formal Is It?

Fun Fact

The verb '切る' (kiru) is very old and has many related words and meanings, including cutting, severing, ending, and even spending money. The suffix '〜切れ' is a testament to how verbs can evolve into grammatical elements that modify nouns.

Pronunciation Guide

UK /ki.ɾe/
US /ki.ɾe/
Stress is generally on the first syllable, 'ki', but it is a relatively flat pronunciation without strong emphasis.
Rhymes With
切れ (kire) 生き (iki) 行き (iki) 書き (kaki) 時 (toki) 時 (ji) 利き (kiki) 泣き (naki) 起き (oki) 着き (tsuki)
Common Errors
  • Pronouncing 're' as a hard 'r' sound like in English 'red'.
  • Adding an extra syllable or lengthening the vowels.
  • Confusing the meaning based on similar-sounding words.

Difficulty Rating

Reading 3/5

Understanding '〜切れ' is crucial for reading Japanese texts as it frequently appears in various contexts, from everyday conversations to news articles and product descriptions. Recognizing its meaning helps in comprehending the state of availability or depletion of items and resources.

Writing 3/5
Speaking 3/5
Listening 3/5

What to Learn Next

Prerequisites

切る (kiru - to cut) なくなる (nakunaru - to disappear) 終わる (owaru - to end) ある (aru - to exist) ない (nai - not exist)

Learn Next

〜尽くし (tsukushi - thoroughly, completely) 〜損ねる (sokoneru - to fail to do) 〜損 (son - loss, disadvantage) 〜不足 (fusoku - shortage)

Advanced

枯渇 (kokatsu - depletion, exhaustion) 逼迫 (hippaku - stringency, pressure) 断絶 (danzetsu - severance, rupture)

Grammar to Know

The use of 〜ています (te imasu) to indicate a current state of depletion.

が切れています。(The medicine has run out and is currently unavailable.)

The use of 〜ました (mashita) to indicate a completed action of running out.

携帯の充電が切れました。(The phone's battery ran out.)

Forming compound nouns with 〜切れ.

時間切れ(jikangire - time limit)

Using 〜切れ as a predicate with です/だ.

すみません、コーヒー切れです。(Excuse me, we're out of coffee.)

The idiomatic use of '我慢の糸が切れる'.

彼の度重なる遅刻に、ついに上司の我慢の糸が切れた。(Finally, the boss lost patience with his repeated lateness.)

Examples by Level

1

水がない。

Water is not.

Basic negation of existence.

2

もうお菓子がない。

Already snacks not.

Using 'もう' for 'already' and negation.

3

電池がない。

Battery not.

Simple noun + negation.

4

時間がない。

Time not.

Common expression for 'no time'.

5

パンがなくなった。

Bread disappeared.

Using 'なくなった' for 'ran out'.

6

お金がない。

Money not.

Basic expression for 'no money'.

7

牛乳がない。

Milk not.

Simple noun + negation.

8

もう終わり。

Already end.

Simple expression for 'it's over'.

1

すみません、パンが切れています。

Excuse me, bread is cut/running out.

Using '〜ています' to indicate a current state of depletion.

2

携帯の充電が切れました。

Mobile's charge ran out.

Using '〜ました' for a past event of running out.

3

もう時間がないよ!

Already time not!

Informal exclamation about lack of time.

4

このお店は品切れが多いね。

This shop sold out is many, isn't it.

Using '品切れ' for 'out of stock'.

5

電池が切れそう。

Battery is about to run out.

Using '〜そう' to indicate something is about to happen.

6

もうお金がないから、買えない。

Already money not, so cannot buy.

Connecting lack of money to inability to buy.

7

牛乳がもうないです。

Milk already not is.

Using 'もうない' for 'no longer available'.

8

作業が終わって、時間切れです。

Work finished, time limit reached is.

Combining completion of work with time running out.

1

申し訳ありませんが、現在、食料切れです。

I am very sorry, currently, food shortage is.

Formal apology and stating a food shortage.

2

このプロジェクトは時間切れで続行できません。

This project time limit reached, cannot continue.

Using '時間切れ' to explain project termination.

3

スマートフォンの電池が切れて、連絡が取れなくなりました。

Smartphone's battery ran out, contact became unable to take.

Connecting '電池切れ' to a consequence (inability to contact).

4

人気商品のため、品切れとなりました。

Because it's a popular product, sold out became.

Formal announcement of an item being sold out.

5

彼の忍耐はもう切れかかっている。

His patience already is about to run out.

Using '切れかかっている' to express nearing the limit of patience.

6

残念ながら、このパンは売り切れです。

Unfortunately, this bread is sold out.

Using '売り切れ' (urigure) - a common variant of '品切れ'.

7

急いでください、もうすぐ時間切れですよ!

Please hurry, soon time limit is!

Urgent warning about time running out.

8

この切符は有効期限切れです。

This ticket is expired.

Using '期限切れ' (kigen gire) for expiry.

1

長引く交渉の末、ついに予算切れとなった。

After prolonged negotiations, finally budget ran out became.

Using '予算切れ' in the context of lengthy negotiations.

2

接続が不安定なため、回線切れが頻繁に発生しています。

Because connection is unstable, connection cut-offs are frequently occurring.

Using '回線切れ' to describe technical issues.

3

彼の集中力は限界に達し、もう切れそうだった。

His concentration reached its limit, already was about to run out.

Using '切れそう' for mental or physical limits.

4

この地域では、水不足が深刻化しており、貯水池も底切れ寸前だ。

In this region, water shortage is becoming serious, and reservoirs are also on the verge of running dry.

Using '底切れ寸前' (sokogire sunzen) - on the verge of running dry.

5

長時間のフライトで、乗客の多くが体力切れを感じていた。

On the long flight, many passengers were feeling physical exhaustion.

Using '体力切れ' (tairyokugire) for physical exhaustion.

6

この薬はもうすぐ期限切れなので、新しいものを処方します。

Since this medicine will expire soon, I will prescribe a new one.

Using '期限切れ' in a medical context.

7

会議の終了時間が迫り、資料も尽きかけていたので、議論は打ち切りとなった。

As the meeting end time approached, and materials were also running out, the discussion was cut short.

Combining '時間切れ' and '尽きかけていた' (tsukikaketeita - about to run out) to explain ending a meeting.

8

彼は怒りで我慢の糸が切れそうだった。

He felt the thread of his patience was about to snap with anger.

Idiomatic use of '我慢の糸が切れる' (gaman no ito ga kireru - thread of patience snaps).

1

長引く不況により、多くの企業が資金繰りに窮し、ついに資金切れで倒産した。

Due to the prolonged recession, many companies struggled with cash flow, and finally went bankrupt due to lack of funds.

Using '資金切れ' (shikingire) for financial depletion leading to bankruptcy.

2

インターネットの普及により、かつては当たり前だった手紙のやり取りも、今では新鮮味の切れを感じさせる。

With the spread of the internet, letter exchanges, once commonplace, now feel a lack of freshness.

Using '新鮮味の切れ' (shinsenkimi no gire) for a 'loss of novelty'.

3

現代社会では、情報過多により、人々の注意力の持続時間が切れやすくなっている。

In modern society, due to information overload, people's attention spans are becoming easier to break.

Using '注意力の持続時間が切れやすい' (chūryokuryoku no jizokujikan ga kireyasui) for declining attention spans.

4

予期せぬ事態への対応に追われ、当初の計画は頓挫し、リソースの切れも懸念される。

Chased by unexpected situations, the initial plan stalled, and a depletion of resources is also a concern.

Using 'リソースの切れ' (risōsu no gire) for resource depletion in a project.

5

彼の芸術は、常に革新を追求するあまり、時に大衆の共感の切れを招くことがある。

His art, in its constant pursuit of innovation, sometimes invites a detachment from popular empathy.

Using '共感の切れ' (kyōkan no gire) for a loss of connection or empathy.

6

絶え間ない競争社会において、精神的な余裕の切れは、多くの人々が抱える課題である。

In a society of constant competition, a lack of mental余裕 (yoyū -余裕) is a challenge many people face.

Using '精神的な余裕の切れ' (seishinteki na yoyū no gire) for lack of mental space.

7

この物語は、登場人物たちの感情の爆発と、その後の静寂の切れが見事に描かれている。

This story masterfully depicts the emotional outbursts of the characters and the subsequent, abrupt silence.

Using '静寂の切れ' (seijaku no gire) for an abrupt or stark silence.

8

資源の枯渇が叫ばれる現代において、持続可能性への意識の切れは許されない。

In an era where resource depletion is cried out, a lack of awareness towards sustainability is unforgivable.

Using '意識の切れ' (ishiki no gire) for a lapse or lack of awareness.

1

彼の評論は、現代美術の陳腐化に対する鋭い洞察と、その革新性の切れを的確に指摘している。

His critique accurately points out sharp insights into the staleness of contemporary art and the abrupt cessation of its innovation.

Sophisticated use of '革新性の切れ' (kakushinsei no gire) for the abrupt end of innovation.

2

テクノロジーの進化は目覚ましいが、その一方で、人間性の基盤との乖離、すなわち人間性の切れもまた、看過できない問題となっている。

Technological evolution is remarkable, but on the other hand, the divergence from the foundation of humanity, that is, the severance of humanity, has also become an issue that cannot be overlooked.

Philosophical use of '人間性の切れ' (ningensei no gire) for a loss or detachment from humanity.

3

過剰な情報摂取は、思考の深まりを阻害し、結果として、本質を見抜く力、すなわち洞察力の切れを招く。

Excessive information intake hinders the deepening of thought, and as a result, invites a loss of the ability to discern essence, that is, insight.

Using '洞察力の切れ' (dōsatsuryoku no gire) for a decline in insight.

4

経済活動のグローバル化は、地域文化の独自性の維持を困難にし、文化的アイデンティティの切れを危惧させる。

The globalization of economic activity makes it difficult to maintain the uniqueness of local culture, raising fears of a severance of cultural identity.

Using '文化的アイデンティティの切れ' (bunkateki aidentiti no gire) for a loss of cultural identity.

5

彼の演技は、感情の昂ぶりと、その後の抑制された静寂の切れが見事に調和していた。

His acting masterfully harmonized emotional surges with the subsequent, restrained abruptness of silence.

Artistic use of '抑制された静寂の切れ' (yokusei sareta seijaku no gire) for controlled silence.

6

現代社会における急速な変化は、人々の精神的な安定を脅かし、自己肯定感の切れを招きやすい。

Rapid changes in modern society threaten people's mental stability and easily invite a loss of self-esteem.

Using '自己肯定感の切れ' (jiko kōteikan no gire) for a decline in self-esteem.

7

この文学作品は、登場人物たちの内面的な葛藤と、その感情の断絶の切れを克明に描いている。

This literary work meticulously depicts the characters' internal conflicts and the abrupt severance of their emotional connections.

Using '感情の断絶の切れ' (kanjō no danzetsu no gire) for a distinct break in emotional connection.

8

持続可能な開発目標の達成には、短期的利益の追求から、長期的な視点への転換、すなわち「利益至上主義の切れ」が不可欠である。

Achieving the Sustainable Development Goals requires a shift from the pursuit of short-term profits to a long-term perspective, that is, an indispensable 'severance of profit-supremacy'.

Abstract and conceptual use of '利益至上主義の切れ' (rieki shijō shugi no gire) for a paradigm shift.

Common Collocations

時間切れ
電池切れ
品切れ
売り切れ
予算切れ
食材切れ
回線切れ
我慢の限界が切れる
有効期限切れ
資金切れ

Common Phrases

時間切れです。

— It's time's up. / We've run out of time.

すみません、もう時間切れです。次のセッションに移りましょう。

電池切れです。

— The battery is dead. / It's out of battery.

携帯電話が電池切れで、充電器を探しています。

品切れしました。

— It's out of stock. / It's sold out.

残念ながら、その商品はすでに品切れしました。

売り切れました。

— It's sold out.

このコンサートのチケットはすぐに売り切れました。

もう〜切れです。

— We're already out of ~.

すみません、もう牛乳切れです。

〜が切れている。

— ~ has run out. / ~ is gone.

薬が切れているので、薬局で買わないといけません。

有効期限切れ

— Expired.

このクーポンは有効期限切れです。

水切れが悪い

— Doesn't drain well. / Water doesn't flow out easily.

このシンクは水切れが悪いので、掃除が大変です。

息切れがする

— To be out of breath. / To pant.

階段を駆け上がったら、息切れがしました。

冷静さを失う(=冷静さが切れる)

— To lose one's composure.

彼はショックで冷静さを失ってしまった。

Often Confused With

〜切れ vs 〜なくなる (nakunaru)

Both '〜切れ' and '〜なくなる' can mean 'to run out of'. However, '〜切れ' often implies a more abrupt depletion or a state of being completely gone, while '〜なくなる' can be a more general disappearance or running out. For example, 'パン切れ' is a specific state of bread shortage, while 'パンがなくなった' is a more general statement that the bread is gone.

〜切れ vs 〜終わる (owaru)

'〜終わる' means 'to end' or 'to finish' an activity or event. '〜切れ' refers to the depletion of a resource or a deadline being reached. You can't say 'パンが終わる' to mean the bread ran out; it must be 'パン切れ' or 'パンがなくなった'.

〜切れ vs 〜切る (kiru)

'切る' is the verb 'to cut'. '〜切れ' is a suffix derived from it. While related, they are not interchangeable. For example, 'パンを切る' means 'to cut bread', not 'to run out of bread'.

Idioms & Expressions

"我慢の糸が切れる"

— To lose one's patience; to snap.

彼の度重なる遅刻に、ついに上司の我慢の糸が切れた。

Informal
"油が切れる"

— To run out of energy; to become exhausted (often used metaphorically).

徹夜で仕事をして、油が切れてしまった。

Informal
"潮時が切れる"

— To miss one's chance; to pass the opportune moment.

もっと早く行動すべきだった。潮時が切れてしまったようだ。

Slightly Formal
"血の気が引く"

— To turn pale with fear or shock (literally, 'blood is cut off').

その恐ろしいニュースを聞いて、血の気が引いた。

Figurative
"心臓が止まる(=心臓の鼓動が切れる)"

— To stop one's heart (from shock or fear).

突然の出来事に、心臓が止まるかと思った。

Figurative
"話が途切れる"

— For a conversation to be interrupted; for the flow of talk to stop.

電話が突然切れてしまい、話が途切れてしまった。

Neutral
"息の根を止める"

— To kill; to put an end to something completely (often implies ruthlessness).

ライバル社の計画の息の根を止めた。

Strong/Figurative
"火が消える(=情熱の火が切れる)"

— For passion or enthusiasm to die out.

長年の努力が報われず、彼の情熱の火が消えてしまった。

Figurative
"音信不通になる(=連絡が途切れる)"

— To become out of contact; to stop communicating.

友人が引っ越してから、音信不通になってしまった。

Neutral
"脈が切れる"

— To lose one's pulse; to be on the verge of death (medical context), or metaphorically, to lose connection.

救急隊が到着したとき、患者の脈は切れていた。

Medical/Figurative

Easily Confused

〜切れ vs 〜なくなる

Both indicate something is gone or unavailable.

'〜切れ' specifically refers to the state of depletion or running out, often implying a shortage or absence. '〜なくなる' is a more general verb meaning 'to disappear' or 'to run out of', and can sometimes be used interchangeably but '〜切れ' often carries a stronger nuance of finality or a critical lack.

人気商品のため、すぐに売り<mark>切れ</mark>になりました。(The popular item quickly became sold out.) この店では、もうパン<mark>がなくなっ</mark>た。(This store no longer has bread.)

〜切れ vs 〜が終わる

Both can indicate an ending.

'〜終わる' indicates the completion of an action, event, or period. '〜切れ' indicates that a resource has been used up, or a limit has been reached. You can't say 'パンが終わる' for bread running out; it must be 'パン切れ' or 'パンがなくなった'. However, '時間切れ' means time has run out, which is a form of ending.

会議<mark>が終わ</mark>りました。(The meeting has ended.) 会議の<mark>時間切れ</mark>です。(It's the end of the meeting time / time's up for the meeting.)

〜切れ vs 〜不足

Both relate to a lack of something.

'〜切れ' implies a complete absence or running out of something. '〜不足' implies a shortage or insufficiency, meaning there isn't enough, but there might still be some left. '水切れ' means no water, while '水不足' means there is a water shortage.

この地域では水<mark>切れ</mark>が深刻だ。(Water shortage is serious in this region. - implies little to no water) この地域では水<mark>不足</mark>が深刻だ。(Water shortage is serious in this region. - implies insufficient water)

〜切れ vs 〜が切れる (verb)

It's the verb form from which the suffix is derived.

'〜が切れる' is the verb form meaning 'to run out', 'to be cut', 'to expire'. '〜切れ' is a noun suffix that denotes the state of having run out or being cut off. '電池<mark>が切れ</mark>た' (The battery ran out - verb) vs. '電池<mark>切れ</mark>' (out of battery - noun state).

薬<mark>が切れ</mark>てしまった。(The medicine ran out.) この薬は<mark>期限切れ</mark>です。(This medicine is expired.)

〜切れ vs 〜損ねる (sokoneru)

Both can relate to failure or something not happening as intended.

'〜損ねる' means 'to fail to do' something. '〜切れ' means something has run out or ended. They are not directly related in meaning but can sometimes occur in similar contexts of things not going according to plan.

約束の時間<mark>切れ</mark>で、会議に参加できませんでした。(Due to running out of time, I couldn't attend the meeting.) 約束の時間に遅れて、会議に参加する機会<mark>を損ね</mark>ました。(Being late for the appointment, I missed the opportunity to attend the meeting.)

Sentence Patterns

A2

[Noun] + が + 切れ + て + います。

パン<mark>が切れ</mark>ています。

A2

[Noun] + 切れ + です。

すみません、牛乳<mark>切れ</mark>です。

B1

[Noun] + は + [Noun] + 切れ + に + なりました。

人気商品なので、すぐに売り<mark>切れ</mark>になりました。

B1

[Noun] + が + 切れ + る + 可能性 + が + ある。

この薬はもうすぐ<mark>切れ</mark>る可能性があります。

B2

[Noun] + の + 切れ + 端 + を + 集める。

紙<mark>の切れ</mark>端を集めて、絵を描いた。

B2

[Noun] + 切れ + 寸前 + だ。

彼の体力は<mark>切れ</mark>寸前だった。

C1

[Noun] + の + 切れ + 味 + が + 良い。

この包丁は<mark>切れ</mark>味がとても良い。

C1

我慢 + の + 糸 + が + 切れ + る。

ついに彼の我慢の糸<mark>が切れ</mark>た。

Word Family

Nouns

切れ端 (kirehashi - scrap, fragment)
切り口 (kiriguchi - cut surface, opening)

Verbs

切る (kiru - to cut)
切れ味 (kireaji - sharpness)

Related

切断 (setsudan - severance, amputation)
断片 (danpen - fragment, piece)
末端 (mattan - end, extremity)
終焉 (shūen - end, demise)
欠如 (ketsujo - lack, deficiency)

How to Use It

frequency

High

Common Mistakes
  • Using '〜切れ' for things that are broken. Using '壊れる' (kowareru) for broken items.

    〜切れ indicates depletion or running out, not physical damage. For example, a dead phone is '電池切れ' (denchi gire), but a shattered phone is '壊れた' (kowareta).

  • Attaching '〜切れ' directly to verbs or adjectives. Attaching '〜切れ' to nouns.

    〜切れ is primarily a noun suffix. For example, '速切れ' (hayagire) is incorrect; '時間切れ' (jikangire) is correct for time running out.

  • Confusing '〜切れ' with '〜終わる' for consumables. Using '〜切れ' or '〜なくなる' for consumables, and '〜終わる' for events/tasks.

    '〜終わる' means to end an activity (e.g., '会議が終わる' - meeting ends). '〜切れ' means a resource has run out (e.g., 'パン切れ' - out of bread).

  • Using '〜切れ' when '〜不足' would be more appropriate. Using '〜切れ' for complete absence and '〜不足' for shortage.

    '〜切れ' implies nothing is left, while '〜不足' means there isn't enough. '水切れ' (no water) vs. '水不足' (water shortage).

  • Overusing '〜切れ' for non-depletable items. Using '〜切れ' for items that can be consumed or exhausted.

    It sounds unnatural to say '机切れ' (out of desks). '〜切れ' is for things that run out, like food, time, or energy.

Tips

Focus on the Noun

Remember that '〜切れ' is primarily attached to nouns. Always identify the noun preceding '〜切れ' to understand what exactly has run out or been depleted. This will help you grasp the context immediately.

Visualize Depletion

When learning new words with '〜切れ', try to visualize the situation. Imagine an empty shelf for '品切れ', a dead battery icon for '電池切れ', or a clock with hands pointing past the deadline for '時間切れ'.

State vs. Action

Understand that '〜切れ' often describes a state (e.g., 'I am out of milk'), commonly expressed with 〜ています (te imasu) or 〜です (desu). The verb form '〜が切れる' (ga kireru) describes the action of running out or expiring.

Listen for Frequency

Pay attention to how often you hear '〜切れ' in different media – news, dramas, conversations. Its high frequency indicates its importance in everyday Japanese.

Learn Common Compounds

Memorize common compound words like '時間切れ', '電池切れ', and '品切れ' as they are used very frequently and will significantly boost your comprehension.

Distinguish from '〜なくなる'

While similar, '〜切れ' often implies a more abrupt or complete depletion, or a critical lack, compared to the more general '〜なくなる' (to disappear/run out).

Use in Sentences

Try to create your own sentences using '〜切れ' in various contexts. This active recall will solidify your understanding and ability to use the suffix correctly.

Practice the Flap 'R'

The Japanese 'r' sound (like in '切れ') is a flap, similar to the 'tt' in 'butter' in American English. Practice this sound to improve your pronunciation.

Efficiency and Resourcefulness

The frequent use of '〜切れ' reflects a cultural appreciation for efficiency and not wasting resources. Being aware of this can help you understand the underlying sentiment when the word is used.

Beyond the Literal

As you advance, notice how '〜切れ' is used metaphorically for abstract concepts like 'patience' or 'novelty', enriching the language's expressive power.

Memorize It

Mnemonic

Imagine a piece of cake that has been cut into slices. When all the slices are gone, there is 'cake-切れ' (cake-gire) - the cake has run out. Or think of a rope that has been cut; once it's cut, the connection is '切れ' (kire).

Visual Association

Picture a nearly empty refrigerator with only a small piece of cheese left. The sign on the door says 'Cheese - 切れ!' (Cheese - out!). Or imagine a clock with its hands broken off, symbolizing '時間切れ' (time's up).

Word Web

〜切れ 切る (kiru - to cut) 切れた (kireta - cut, ran out) パン切れ (pangire - out of bread) 時間切れ (jikangire - time's up) 電池切れ (denchi gire - out of battery) 品切れ (shōhin gire - out of stock) 売り切れ (urigure - sold out) 予算切れ (yosangire - out of budget) 回線切れ (kaisen gire - connection cut off) 我慢の糸が切れる (gaman no ito ga kireru - patience snaps)

Challenge

Try to describe three things you might run out of today using '〜切れ'. For example, 'I might run out of coffee' (コーヒー切れかも - kōhī gire kamo) or 'I might run out of time' (時間切れかも - jikangire kamo).

Word Origin

The word '〜切れ' originates from the verb '切る' (kiru), which means 'to cut'. The suffix developed from the past tense form '切れた' (kireta) or the conjunctive form '切れ' (kire) of the verb, coming to denote the state of having been cut off or having run out.

Original meaning: To cut.

Japonic

Cultural Context

While '〜切れ' is generally a neutral term, using it to describe a critical shortage of essential resources (like food or medicine) in a dire situation might require more empathetic phrasing depending on the context.

In English, we use phrases like 'out of stock', 'run out of', 'time is up', 'expired', or 'depleted'. The Japanese '〜切れ' often neatly encapsulates these ideas into a single suffix.

The common phrase '時間切れ' (jikangire) is used extensively in timed events, exams, and sports. The term '品切れ' (shōhin gire) is a familiar sight in shops, especially for popular or limited-edition items. '電池切れ' (denchi gire) is a universally understood problem for anyone using electronic devices.

Practice in Real Life

Real-World Contexts

Shopping and availability of goods.

  • 品切れ
  • 売り切れ
  • 在庫切れ
  • 〜切れになりました

Time management and deadlines.

  • 時間切れ
  • 〜切れです
  • 時間切れ寸前

Consumable items at home.

  • パン切れ
  • 牛乳切れ
  • お菓子切れ
  • 〜が切れている

Electronics and battery life.

  • 電池切れ
  • 充電切れ
  • 〜切れで使えない

Abstract concepts like patience or resources.

  • 我慢の糸が切れる
  • 予算切れ
  • 資金切れ
  • 体力切れ

Conversation Starters

"Have you ever experienced being completely out of something essential?"

"What's the most frustrating thing to find out is sold out when you really need it?"

"How do you feel when you're about to run out of time for an important task?"

"Can you think of a time when your patience ran out?"

"What are some common items that run out quickly in your household?"

Journal Prompts

Describe a situation where you ran out of time and the consequences.

Write about a time you were frustrated because an item was sold out.

Reflect on a moment when your patience was tested and you felt like it was about to run out.

Imagine you are a shopkeeper. How would you inform customers about an item being out of stock?

What are your strategies for managing resources to avoid running out of them?

Frequently Asked Questions

10 questions

'〜切れ' (gire) and '〜がなくなる' (ga nakunaru) can often be used interchangeably to mean 'to run out of'. However, '〜切れ' tends to imply a more definitive or abrupt depletion, emphasizing the state of being completely gone or the lack of something. '〜なくなる' is a more general verb for disappearing or running out. For example, 'パン切れ' (pangire) specifically refers to the state of being out of bread, often implying a shortage, while 'パンがなくなった' (pan ga nakunatta) simply states that the bread is no longer there.

Yes, '〜切れ' can be used with abstract concepts that can be depleted or exhausted. Common examples include '時間切れ' (jikangire - time's up), '予算切れ' (yosangire - out of budget), '体力切れ' (tairyokugire - physical exhaustion), and even '我慢の限界が切れる' (gaman no genkai ga kireru - patience snaps). This shows its versatility beyond just physical items.

While '〜切れ' often signifies a problem (like running out of supplies or time), it's not inherently negative. It's a descriptive term. For instance, '有効期限切れ' (yūkō kigen gire - expired) is a factual statement. However, in contexts like '時間切れ' or '予算切れ', it usually implies a constraint or a negative outcome.

'品切れ' (shōhin gire) and '売り切れ' (urigure) both mean 'out of stock' or 'sold out'. '品切れ' is a more general term referring to goods being unavailable, often due to a lack of inventory. '売り切れ' specifically implies that all items have been sold. In practice, they are often used interchangeably, but '売り切れ' emphasizes the selling aspect.

'〜切れ' originates from the verb '切る' (kiru), which means 'to cut'. The suffix developed from the verb's past tense or conjunctive forms to denote a state of being cut off, severed, or having run out. For example, if a rope is 'cut' (切れた - kireta), it signifies a break. This concept of 'breaking' or 'ending' extended to resources and supplies.

'〜切れ' is primarily used for things that have run out, been depleted, or ended. It's not typically used for something that is broken or malfunctioning, unless the breakage is a direct result of running out of power or a critical component. For example, a phone that won't turn on because the battery is dead is '電池切れ' (denchi gire). A phone that is physically smashed is simply '壊れた' (kowareta - broken).

'水切れが悪い' (mizugire ga warui) literally means 'water cutting is bad'. It's used to describe objects or containers that do not drain water easily or effectively. For instance, a sink with poor drainage or a colander that holds water would be described as having '水切れが悪い'.

Yes, you can use '〜切れ寸前' (gire sunzen) to mean 'on the verge of running out' or 'almost out'. For example, '水切れ寸前' (mizugire sunzen) means 'on the verge of running out of water'.

'〜切れ' is extremely common in spoken Japanese. You will hear it frequently in everyday conversations, especially when discussing groceries, time, battery life, or any situation where a resource is depleted.

Yes, '期限切れ' (kigen gire) means 'expired', and '有効期限切れ' (yūkō kigen gire) means 'expired validity'. This is a specific application of '〜切れ' for items that have a set expiry date.

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