The word describes any process of extending in length, size, or capability over time.
Word in 30 Seconds
- Used for physical growth of hair, height, or nails.
- Describes objects stretching or extending in length.
- Indicates improvement in skills, sales, or performance.
1) 概要: 「伸びる」は、物事が本来の状態から長さや範囲を広げる様子を表します。生物の成長から、物理的な物体の伸長、さらには抽象的な能力の向上まで幅広く用いられます。
2) 使用パターン: 主に自動詞として使われます。主語が何らかの形で「長くなる」「大きくなる」という変化を遂げる時に使用します。例：「髪が伸びる」「成績が伸びる」。
3) 一般的な文脈: 日常生活では、身体的な成長（身長、髪、爪）や、会議の時間が長引く際によく耳にします。また、ビジネスシーンでは売上や業績が向上する際に「業績が伸びる」と表現します。
4) 類語との比較: 「延びる」は時間や期限が後ろにずれる際に使われ、物理的な成長には使いません。「増える」は数や量が加算されることを指し、形状の変化を伴う「伸びる」とは対象が異なります。
Examples
髪が伸びたので切りに行きます。
everydayMy hair has grown, so I'm going to get it cut.
我が社の売上が大幅に伸びています。
formalOur company's sales are growing significantly.
背が伸びて驚いた。
informalI was surprised that you grew taller.
この理論は応用範囲が伸びる可能性がある。
academicThis theory has the potential to extend its range of application.
Common Collocations
Common Phrases
伸び伸びと
relaxed and freely
芽が伸びる
a sprout grows
Often Confused With
This is used exclusively for time, deadlines, or distance. It never refers to biological growth.
Grammar Patterns
How to Use It
Usage Notes
Use '伸びる' for objects that get longer or people/skills that improve. It is a neutral verb used in both casual and formal settings. Ensure you distinguish it from '延びる' when writing.
Common Mistakes
The most common error is using '延びる' for physical growth. Remember: if it's about size or skill, use '伸びる'. If it's about time or schedules, use '延びる'.
Tips
Focus on growth and extension
Think of a rubber band or a child growing up. Both represent the core concept of 'stretching' or 'extending' outward.
Watch out for Kanji usage
Always use '伸びる' for growth and '延びる' for time extensions. Confusing these is a common mistake even for native speakers.
Positive connotation in growth
In Japanese culture, describing someone's skill as '伸びる' is a high compliment. It implies potential and future success.
Word Origin
Derived from the verb 'のぶ' (to extend). It has been used since Old Japanese to describe the act of stretching or lengthening.
Cultural Context
In Japan, personal growth is highly valued. Describing someone as '伸びる子' (a child who will grow/succeed) is a common way to praise potential.
Memory Tip
Imagine a plant growing upwards (伸びる). The 'non-bi' sound reminds me of 'no-bee' (no limits to growth).
Frequently Asked Questions
4 questions「伸びる」は成長や物理的な長さの増加に使われます。一方「延びる」は、時間や期限が延長される場合に使われる漢字です。
テストの点数や評価が以前よりも良くなったことを意味します。能力が向上したというポジティブな文脈で使われます。
過去形は「伸びた」となります。例えば「髪が伸びた」のように使用します。
物理的には「縮む」が反対語です。成長や向上に関しては「停滞する」や「衰える」が対照的な意味を持ちます。
Test Yourself
最近、英語の成績が___。
能力や成績の向上には「伸びる」を使います。
Score: /1
Summary
The word describes any process of extending in length, size, or capability over time.
- Used for physical growth of hair, height, or nails.
- Describes objects stretching or extending in length.
- Indicates improvement in skills, sales, or performance.
Focus on growth and extension
Think of a rubber band or a child growing up. Both represent the core concept of 'stretching' or 'extending' outward.
Watch out for Kanji usage
Always use '伸びる' for growth and '延びる' for time extensions. Confusing these is a common mistake even for native speakers.
Positive connotation in growth
In Japanese culture, describing someone's skill as '伸びる' is a high compliment. It implies potential and future success.
Examples
4 of 4髪が伸びたので切りに行きます。
My hair has grown, so I'm going to get it cut.
我が社の売上が大幅に伸びています。
Our company's sales are growing significantly.
背が伸びて驚いた。
I was surprised that you grew taller.
この理論は応用範囲が伸びる可能性がある。
This theory has the potential to extend its range of application.
Related Content
This Word in Other Languages
Related Phrases
Related Vocabulary
More nature words
～上
B1Above; on top of; up.
〜の上
A2On top of, above, upon.
豊か
B1Abundant; rich; plentiful (na-adjective).
〜に従って
B1According to, in conformity with, as (something happens).
酸性雨
B1Acid rain.
営み
B1Activity; daily life; undertaking (e.g., life's activities).
順応する
B1To adapt; to adjust; to conform.
~を背景に
B1Against the backdrop of; with...as background.
空気
A2air
大気汚染
B1Air pollution; the presence of harmful substances in the air.
