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A2 verb 9 min read

曲がる

magaru

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips 曲がる in 30 Seconds

Explanation 曲がる in your Level:

At the A1 level, learners encounter 曲がる (magaru) primarily in the context of giving and receiving basic directions. This is one of the most practical verbs you will learn early on because it allows you to navigate a Japanese city. At this stage, you should focus on the simplest sentence structure: [Direction] ni magarimasu (I will turn [Direction]).

Most A1 textbooks introduce 'migi' (right) and 'hidari' (left) alongside 'magaru'. You will practice sentences like 'Migi ni magarimasu' (Turn right) or 'Tsugi no kado o hidari ni magarimasu' (Turn left at the next corner). The goal here is not to understand every nuance, but to be able to follow a map or tell a taxi driver where to go. You will mostly use the polite form 曲がります (magarimasu).

A key point for A1 students is the use of the particle 'o' with 'kado' (corner). Even though 'o' is often taught as the direct object marker, here it indicates the location of movement. Don't worry too much about the deep grammar; just memorize 'kado o magaru' as a set phrase. You might also see it in very simple descriptions of objects, like a 'magatta sen' (a bent line) in a drawing class, but navigation remains the primary use case at this level.

At the A2 level, your understanding of 曲がる (magaru) expands to include physical states and more complex sentence structures. You will move beyond simple directions and start describing the world around you. This involves using the ~te iru form to describe a state that is currently visible.

For example, instead of just saying 'it turns', you might say 'kono michi wa magatte iru' (this road is winding/curved). You will also learn to distinguish 'magaru' (intransitive) from its transitive partner 'mageru' (to bend something). Understanding this distinction is a hallmark of the A2 level. You'll learn that 'magaru' happens on its own or describes a state, while 'mageru' requires an actor doing the bending.

A2 learners also begin to encounter 'magaru' in the context of the body, specifically 'koshi ga magaru' to describe the elderly. You will also start using the 'te-form' for requests, such as 'Migi ni magatte kudasai' (Please turn right). This level is about building the bridge between simple navigation and descriptive language, allowing you to talk about crooked pictures on a wall or the shape of a river.

At the B1 level, 曲がる (magaru) begins to take on more abstract and idiomatic meanings. You are expected to understand not just physical turns, but also shifts in situations or personality traits. You will start to see 'magaru' in literature and more complex news reports.

One significant development at B1 is the metaphorical use of 'magaru' to describe a person's character. Phrases like 'konjō ga magatte iru' (to have a twisted nature) become part of your receptive vocabulary. You will also learn more specific navigation terms, like 'ōkiku magaru' (to make a wide turn) or 'kyū ni magaru' (to turn suddenly), which require a better grasp of adverbs.

B1 students also explore the potential form 'magareru' (can turn) and the conditional 'magareba' (if you turn). You might discuss whether a large truck 'can turn' in a narrow alleyway. Additionally, you will start to see 'magaru' used in sports contexts, such as describing the path of a ball. The focus at B1 is on versatility—being able to use 'magaru' in a variety of grammatical structures and understanding its use beyond the physical world.

At the B2 level, you should have a nuanced understanding of 曲がる (magaru) and be able to distinguish it from a wide array of synonyms like 'mawaru', 'oreru', and 'soru'. You are expected to use 'magaru' accurately in professional and academic contexts, as well as in casual slang.

B2 learners will encounter technical uses of the word. For instance, in engineering or physics, 'magaru' might describe the stress on a beam or the refraction of light. You will also become familiar with more complex idioms like 'heso o magaru' (to get cranky/sulk). This level requires you to understand the 'flavor' of the word—why a writer chose 'magaru' instead of a more formal term like 'kussetsu'.

You will also practice using 'magaru' in passive and causative-passive forms, although these are less common. For example, 'magaraseru' (to make something bend). Understanding how 'magaru' interacts with complex grammar like '~te shimau' (to end up bending/turning unintentionally) is also crucial. At B2, you are no longer just 'turning'; you are describing the precise way something deviates from a straight line, whether it's a piece of wood, a light beam, or a person's logic.

At the C1 level, your use of 曲がる (magaru) is sophisticated and deeply integrated with cultural nuances. You can identify the word in classical literature or high-level journalism where it might be used to describe the 'warped' state of society or the 'twisting' of truth. The distinction between 'magaru' and its synonyms becomes a matter of stylistic choice.

C1 learners are comfortable with the kanji 曲 and its various readings and compounds (like kyokusen for curve or kyokkai for misinterpretation). You can engage in debates about whether a certain policy is 'magatte iru' (crooked/unfair). You also understand the subtle difference between 'magaru' and 'yugamu' (to distort), using the latter for more complex visual or moral distortions.

In speaking, you can use 'magaru' idiomatic expressions naturally. You might use it to describe the flow of a conversation that has 'turned' in an unexpected direction. Your grasp of the word includes its historical etymology and how its usage has evolved. At C1, 'magaru' is a tool for precise, evocative expression, allowing you to describe everything from the subtle curve of a ceramic bowl to the complex moral failings of a fictional protagonist.

At the C2 level, mastery of 曲がる (magaru) is absolute. You understand the word in its most archaic forms and its most modern slang. You can appreciate the word's role in Japanese aesthetics, such as the 'curves' in traditional architecture or the 'bent' beauty of a bonsai tree. You can discuss the word's phonology and its relationship to other 'm-' initial verbs related to movement.

C2 speakers can use 'magaru' to express the finest shades of meaning. You might use it in a poetic context to describe the 'turning' of the seasons or the 'bending' of time. Your understanding is so deep that you can play with the word, using it in puns or creative writing to subvert expectations. You are also fully aware of the regional variations in how 'magaru' might be used or pronounced across Japan.

Furthermore, you can explain the psychological nuances of 'magaru'—how the concept of 'straightness' (shōjiki) is contrasted with 'bentness' in Japanese philosophy. You are a master of the register, knowing exactly when 'magaru' sounds too simple and when it is the most powerful word available. For a C2 learner, 'magaru' is not just a verb; it is a conceptual category that encompasses a vast range of physical, moral, and aesthetic experiences.

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips

曲がる in 30 Seconds

Magaru means 'to turn' (intransitive), like turning a corner or a road curving.
It also means 'to bend' or 'be crooked', describing a physical state like a bent nail.
Metaphorically, it can describe a person's 'twisted' character or being in a bad mood.
Use 'o' for the place you turn (kado o) and 'ni' for the direction (migi ni).

The Japanese verb 曲がる (magaru) is a fundamental intransitive verb that primarily translates to 'to turn' or 'to bend' in English. At its most basic level, it describes the physical action of changing direction or a physical object losing its straightness. For English speakers, it is most commonly encountered when asking for or giving directions, specifically when turning at a corner or following a winding path. However, the depth of 'magaru' extends far beyond simple navigation, touching upon physical states of objects, the aging process of the human body, and even the abstract nature of a person's character or integrity.

Physical Direction: When you are walking down a street and reach an intersection, the act of turning left or right is expressed using 'magaru'. It requires the particle 'o' for the place where you turn (the corner) and 'ni' or 'e' for the direction. For example, 'kado o migi ni magaru' means to turn right at the corner.
Structural Bending: If a piece of metal is no longer straight, or if a road curves through a mountain, we use 'magaru'. It describes an inherent state or a change in state where the object itself is curved or crooked. A 'magatta michi' is a winding road.
Human Anatomy: In Japanese culture, 'koshi ga magaru' (one's lower back bends) is a common way to describe the physical effects of aging. It refers to the stooped posture often seen in the elderly. This usage is descriptive and often carries a sense of the passage of time.

次の信号を左に曲がると、駅が見えます。(Tsugi no shingō o hidari ni magaru to, eki ga miemasu.) - If you turn left at the next traffic light, you will see the station.

In more advanced contexts, 'magaru' can describe a person's spirit or mind. 'Konjō ga magatte iru' (to have a twisted nature) is a harsh way to say someone is dishonest or perverse. This metaphorical extension is vital for understanding Japanese literature and daily idioms. Whether you are navigating the streets of Tokyo or describing a crooked picture frame, 'magaru' is the essential verb for anything that deviates from a straight line. It evokes a sense of movement and change, making it one of the most dynamic verbs in the Japanese language for beginners and advanced learners alike.

Using 曲がる (magaru) correctly requires a solid grasp of Japanese particles and verb conjugations. As a Godan (Group 1) verb ending in '-ru', its conjugation follows standard patterns. The most common mistake for learners is choosing the wrong particle for the location of the turn. In Japanese, the space through which movement occurs (like a corner or a street) is marked with the particle を (o), while the direction is marked with に (ni) or へ (e).

The 'Kado o' Pattern: 'Kado o magaru' is the quintessential phrase for turning a corner. Here, 'o' indicates the point of transition. If you are giving directions to a taxi driver, you would say 'Kono kado o migi ni magatte kudasai' (Please turn right at this corner).
Describing States with '-te iru': When an object is permanently bent, we use the continuous form 'magatte iru'. For example, 'Kono kugi wa magatte iru' (This nail is bent). This describes the current state of the object rather than the action of bending.

道が右に大きく曲がっています。(Michi ga migi ni ōkiku magatte imasu.) - The road curves sharply to the right.

In formal settings, you will use the polite form 'magarimasu'. In casual conversation, the plain form 'magaru' or the 'te-form' for requests is standard. It's also important to note the potential form 'magareru' (can turn) and the causative form 'magaraseru' (to make something turn/bend). For instance, in a narrow street, you might ask 'Koko de magareru?' (Can we turn here?). Mastery of these variations allows you to navigate both physical spaces and social interactions with ease. Always pay attention to the subject; if the subject is an inanimate object like a 'tie' (nekutai) that is crooked, 'magatte iru' is your go-to expression.

You will encounter 曲がる (magaru) in a variety of everyday situations in Japan. The most frequent is undoubtedly within the context of transportation and navigation. Whether you are listening to the automated voice of a car navigation system (GPS), a train conductor announcing the next curve, or a friend giving you directions to a hidden cafe, 'magaru' is the keyword for changing course.

Car Navigation (Car-Navi): GPS systems in Japan are incredibly precise. You will often hear: 'O-yoso san-byaku mētoru saki, kado o migi hōkō ni magarimasu' (In approximately 300 meters, turn right at the corner). The polite 'magarimasu' is used here to maintain a professional tone.
Sports and Physical Activity: In baseball, a 'breaking ball' or a curveball is described using 'magaru'. A commentator might shout 'Magatta!' when a pitch suddenly shifts direction before reaching the batter. Similarly, in soccer, a ball that curves into the goal is said to 'magaru'.

その角を曲がると、コンビニがあります。(Sono kado o magaru to, konbini ga arimasu.) - Turn that corner and there's a convenience store.

Beyond the physical, 'magaru' appears in social commentary. If someone's sense of justice is 'magatte iru', it implies they have a warped or corrupt moral compass. You might hear this in Japanese dramas or anime when characters discuss the integrity of a villain. Furthermore, in the world of DIY or construction, 'magaru' is used to describe materials that have warped due to heat or moisture. 'Kono ita wa magatte shimatta' (This board has ended up warped). Recognizing 'magaru' in these diverse contexts—from the voice of a GPS to the dialogue of a gritty drama—will significantly enhance your listening comprehension and cultural awareness.

For English speakers learning 曲がる (magaru), the most common pitfalls involve transitivity, particle choice, and confusion with similar-sounding verbs. Because English often uses 'turn' for both 'I turn the steering wheel' and 'The car turns', learners frequently fail to distinguish between the intransitive 'magaru' and the transitive 'mageru'.

Transitive vs. Intransitive: 'Magaru' is something the subject does itself (intransitive). 'Mageru' is when you do something to an object (transitive). You CANNOT say 'Hari-gane o magaru' to mean 'I bend the wire'. It must be 'Hari-gane o mageru'. Conversely, you don't 'mageru' at a corner; you 'magaru'.
Particle Confusion: 'Ni' vs 'Wo': Learners often say 'Kado ni magaru'. While 'ni' is used for the *direction* (migi ni magaru), the *point of turning* requires 'wo'. Think of 'wo' as the 'throughway' particle, similar to its use in 'michi o aruku' (walk along a road). Correct: 'Kado o magaru'.

❌ 針金を曲がる。 (Incorrect)
✅ 針金を曲げる。 (Correct - I bend the wire.)

Furthermore, avoid using 'magaru' when you mean 'to fold'. If you are folding paper or clothes, the correct verb is 'oru'. While 'bending' and 'folding' are related, Japanese maintains a strict distinction. Finally, be careful with the phrase 'koshi ga magaru'. Using it to describe a young person's temporary slouch might sound like you are saying they have a permanent physical deformity related to old age. Instead, use 'neze' for a temporary hunchback posture. By being mindful of these distinctions—transitivity, particles, and specific vocabulary for 'folding' or 'spinning'—you will sound much more natural and avoid confusing your Japanese interlocutors.

While 曲がる (magaru) is a versatile verb, Japanese offers several synonyms and related terms that provide more specific nuances. Understanding these alternatives will help you choose the right word for the right situation, whether you're talking about a spinning top, a folding crane, or a winding river.

回る (Mawaru) - To Rotate: Unlike 'magaru', which implies an angular change or a bend, 'mawaru' refers to circular motion or rotation. A wheel 'mawaru', and you 'mawaru' around a park. If you 'magaru' at a corner, you are changing your path; if you 'mawaru' a corner, you might be circling it repeatedly.
折れる (Oreru) - To Snap/Fold: 'Oreru' is used when something snaps or is folded over. While 'magaru' suggests a curve, 'oreru' often implies a sharp break or a deliberate fold (like origami). If a branch 'magaru', it's just sagging; if it 'oreru', it has broken.
屈折する (Kussetsu suru) - To Refract: This is a more technical or scientific term. It is used for light refracting through water or glass. While 'magaru' can be used colloquially for light 'bending', 'kussetsu suru' is the academic choice.

光が水の中で曲がる。(Hikari ga mizu no naka de magaru.) - Light bends in water. (Common speech)

Another interesting alternative is 'soru', which means to warp or curve backwards (like a bow or a person stretching their back). 'Magaru' is a general term for bending, but 'soru' is specific to that backward or upward arch. In navigation, 'ukatsu' can mean to detour or go around. If you are describing a person's character, 'hinekureru' (to be twisted/cynical) is a more specific alternative to the metaphorical use of 'magaru'. By learning these distinctions, you can move beyond 'basic Japanese' and start expressing yourself with the precision of a native speaker. Always consider the shape of the movement and the integrity of the object involved.

How Formal Is It?

Fun Fact

The kanji '曲' originally depicted a wicker basket or a tool made of bent wood, symbolizing the concept of 'curved' or 'not straight'. In music, it means 'melody' because a melody 'curves' up and down in pitch.

Pronunciation Guide

UK ma.ɡa.ɾɯ

US mɑ.ɡɑ.ru

The pitch accent is usually low-high (Heiban or Nakadaka depending on dialect), with the 'ga' and 'ru' being slightly higher than 'ma'.

Rhymes With

Agaru (to rise) Sagaru (to lower) Wataru (to cross) Tomaru (to stop) Kimaru (to be decided) Hamaru (to fit) Damaru (to be silent) Takamaru (to increase)

Common Errors

Pronouncing the 'r' as an English 'r' (curling the tongue).
Over-emphasizing the 'ga' sound like 'gah'.
Confusing it with 'mawaru' (rotation).
Using a long 'u' sound at the end instead of a short, clipped Japanese 'u'.
Misplacing the pitch accent, making it sound like a different word.

Difficulty Rating

Reading 2/5

The kanji 曲 is relatively simple (JLPT N4/N5 level).

Writing 3/5

The kanji 曲 has a specific stroke order that can be tricky for beginners.

Speaking 2/5

Pronunciation is straightforward, but the 'r' sound requires practice.

Listening 3/5

Can be confused with 'mawaru' or 'mageru' in fast speech.

What to Learn Next

Prerequisites

右 (Migi) 左 (Hidari) 角 (Kado) 道 (Michi) 行く (Iku)

Learn Next

曲げる (Mageru) 回る (Mawaru) 折る (Oru) 交差点 (Kōsaten) 信号 (Shingō)

Advanced

屈折 (Kussetsu) 歪曲 (Waikyoku) 湾曲 (Wankyoku) 曲折 (Kyokusetsu) へそを曲げる (Heso o mageru)

Grammar to Know

Intransitive Verbs (Jidōshi)

道が曲がる。 (The road curves. - The road is the subject.)

Particle 'o' for Movement Space

公園を歩く、角を曲がる。 (Walk through the park, turn the corner.)

~te iru for State

ネクタイが曲がっている。 (The tie is [in the state of being] crooked.)

Conditional ~to for Natural Consequences

ここを曲がると、海が見えます。 (If you turn here, you'll see the sea.)

Transitive vs Intransitive pairs

曲がる (Intransitive) vs 曲げる (Transitive).

Te-form for Requests

左に曲がってください。 (Please turn left.)

Examples by Level

次の角を右に曲がります。

I will turn right at the next corner.

Uses 'o' for the corner and 'ni' for the direction.

左に曲がってください。

Please turn left.

Polite request form (~te kudasai).

まっすぐ行って、曲がります。

Go straight and then turn.

Connecting two verbs with the te-form (itte).

あそこを曲がります。

Turn there.

'Asoko' (over there) acts as the location of the turn.

どこで曲がりますか。

Where do we turn?

Question form using 'doko' (where).

信号を右に曲がる。

Turn right at the traffic light.

Informal/dictionary form used for simple instructions.

この道を曲がります。

Turn (off) this road.

'Michi o' indicates the path being traversed/exited.

車が曲がります。

The car turns.

Simple subject-verb sentence.

道が曲がっています。

The road is curved.

'~te iru' describes a continuous state.

ネクタイが曲がっていますよ。

Your tie is crooked.

Describes a physical state of an object.

この角を曲がると、銀行があります。

If you turn this corner, there is a bank.

Conditional '~to' meaning 'if/when'.

腰が曲がったおばあさん。

An old lady with a bent back.

'Koshi ga magaru' is a set phrase for aging.

もっと右に曲がってください。

Please turn more to the right.

'Motto' (more) used as an adverb.

ここを曲がれば近いです。

It's close if you turn here.

Conditional '~ba' form.

曲がった線を描きました。

I drew a curved line.

'Magatta' is the past form used as an adjective.

急に曲がらないでください。

Please don't turn suddenly.

Negative request form (~nai de kudasai).

ボールが鋭く曲がった。

The ball curved sharply.

'Sharply' (surudoku) modifying the verb.

彼は根性が曲がっている。

He has a twisted nature.

Metaphorical use for personality.

この先、道が大きく曲がっています。

The road curves widely ahead.

'Kono saki' (ahead) providing context.

熱でプラスチックが曲がってしまった。

The plastic ended up bending due to heat.

'~te shimau' indicates an unintentional result.

そんなに曲がったら、折れてしまうよ。

If it bends that much, it will snap.

Conditional 'tara' and the verb 'oreru' (to snap).

彼はへそを曲げてしまった。

He got grumpy/sullen.

Idiom: 'heso o magaru' (usually used as 'mageru' but related).

光が屈折して曲がる様子を観察する。

Observe how light refracts and bends.

Scientific context combining 'kussetsu' and 'magaru'.

大型バスはこの角を曲がれません。

Large buses cannot turn at this corner.

Potential negative form 'magaremasen'.

彼の理屈はどこか曲がっている。

His logic is somehow twisted.

Abstract use for logic or reasoning.

台風の進路が北に曲がった。

The typhoon's path turned north.

Formal reporting context.

このネジは曲がっていて使えない。

This screw is bent and unusable.

'~te' for cause/reason.

年を取って腰が曲がるのは自然なことだ。

It is natural for the back to bend as one gets older.

Nominalizing the verb phrase with 'no wa'.

真っ直ぐな道を曲がるのは勇気がいる。

It takes courage to turn away from a straight path.

Poetic/metaphorical use.

光ファイバーの中で光が曲がりながら進む。

Light travels while bending inside optical fibers.

'~nagara' (while) describing simultaneous actions.

曲がりくねった山道をドライブする。

Drive along a winding mountain road.

'Magari-kunetta' is a compound verb for 'winding'.

社会の常識が曲げられている。

The common sense of society is being twisted.

Passive form 'magerarete iru' (from transitive mageru).

事実を曲げることは許されない。

Twisting the facts is unacceptable.

Transitive 'mageru' used for abstract truth.

彼の根性は、そう簡単には曲がらない。

His spirit/nature won't be easily swayed/twisted.

Negative form 'magaranai' used for resilience.

曲がりなりにも、彼は社長だ。

For better or worse, he is the president.

Idiom: 'magari-nari ni mo' (somehow/in its own way).

空間が重力によって曲がるという理論。

The theory that space bends due to gravity.

Scientific/Astrophysical context.

正義の尺度が曲がってしまった時代。

An era where the yardstick of justice has become crooked.

Highly literary/metaphorical.

その川は平野を曲がりながら流れている。

The river flows while meandering through the plains.

Describing natural geographical features.

指が曲がらないほど凍えている。

My fingers are so frozen they won't bend.

'~hodo' (to the extent that).

信念を曲げてまで成功したくない。

I don't want to succeed to the point of compromising my beliefs.

'~made' (even to the point of).

事態は曲折を経て解決に向かった。

The situation moved toward resolution after many twists and turns.

'Kyokusetsu' (twists and turns) as a noun compound.

古びた家は、柱が曲がり、床が軋んでいる。

In the old house, the pillars are warped and the floors are creaking.

Describing structural decay in literature.

法が曲げられるようなことがあってはならない。

Cases where the law is distorted must not occur.

Formal/legalistic cautionary tone.

彼の筆致には、どこか曲がった美学がある。

There is a somewhat twisted aesthetic in his brushwork/style.

Aesthetic criticism.

歴史の奔流の中で、個人の意志は曲げられていく。

In the torrent of history, individual will is bent/distorted.

Philosophical/Historical context.

曲学阿世の徒となってはならない。

One must not be a scholar who twists the truth to curry favor.

Four-character idiom (Yojijukugo): 'Kyokugaku-asei'.

光が重力レンズによって曲げられる現象。

The phenomenon where light is bent by gravitational lensing.

Advanced physics terminology.

この盆栽の曲がり具合が見事だ。

The way this bonsai bends is magnificent.

'~guai' (the condition/state of).

Common Collocations

角を曲がる

右に曲がる

腰が曲がる

道が曲がる

根性が曲がる

急に曲がる

へそを曲げる

光が曲がる

釘が曲がる

ネクタイが曲がる

Common Phrases

曲がり角

— A street corner or a turning point in life.

人生の曲がり角に立つ。 (Standing at a turning point in life.)

曲がりなりにも

— Somehow or other; for better or worse.

曲がりなりにも完成した。 (It's finished, in its own way.)

曲がりくねる

— To wind or meander extensively.

曲がりくねった道。 (A winding road.)

右曲がり

— Turning to the right or having a rightward curve.

右曲がりのカーブ。 (A right-hand curve.)

曲がり目

— A turning point or transition.

時代の曲がり目。 (A turning point of the era.)

曲がり易い

— Easy to bend or flexible.

この素材は曲がり易い。 (This material is easy to bend.)

曲がり過ぎる

— To bend or turn too much.

ボールが曲がり過ぎた。 (The ball curved too much.)

曲がり切る

— To finish turning or be completely bent.

角を曲がり切る。 (Finish turning the corner.)

曲がり始める

— To start turning or bending.

道が曲がり始める。 (The road starts to curve.)

曲がり損ねる

— To fail to turn.

角を曲がり損ねた。 (I missed the turn at the corner.)

Often Confused With

曲がる vs 曲げる (Mageru)

Mageru is transitive (I bend it). Magaru is intransitive (It bends/turns).

曲がる vs 回る (Mawaru)

Mawaru is to rotate or go around in a circle. Magaru is to turn at an angle.

曲がる vs 折れる (Oreru)

Oreru implies snapping or a sharp fold. Magaru is a smoother curve or turn.

Idioms & Expressions

"へそを曲げる"

— To get into a bad mood or become sulky.

子供がへそを曲げて泣いている。

Casual

"根性が曲がる"

— To have a warped or dishonest personality.

根性が曲がった奴だ。

Informal

"腰が曲がる"

— To become stooped with age.

祖母は腰が曲がってきた。

Neutral

"事態が曲折する"

— A situation becomes complicated with many changes.

交渉が曲折した。

Formal

"曲学阿世"

— Distorting one's learning to flatter the world.

曲学阿世の徒。

Literary

"指を曲げる"

— To count (on one's fingers).

指を曲げて数える。

Neutral

"無理が通れば道理が引っ込む"

— (Related) When unreason passes, reason withdraws; often involves 'bending' rules.

道理を曲げてはいけない。

Proverb

"筆を曲げる"

— To write against one's conscience/principles.

記者が筆を曲げる。

Literary

"言葉を曲げる"

— To distort someone's words.

私の言葉を曲げないで。

Neutral

"意を曲げる"

— To go against one's own will or twist one's intent.

意を曲げて承諾する。

Formal

Easily Confused

曲がる vs 曲げる (Mageru)

They look and sound similar and both involve bending/turning.

Magaru is intransitive (the subject turns). Mageru is transitive (someone turns/bends the object).

道が曲がる (The road curves) vs 針金を曲げる (I bend the wire).

曲がる vs 回る (Mawaru)

Both involve non-straight movement.

Mawaru is for rotation or circular paths. Magaru is for changing direction at a point.

コマが回る (The top spins) vs 角を曲がる (Turn the corner).

曲がる vs 折る (Oru)

Both change the shape of an object.

Oru is for folding (paper, clothes) or breaking. Magaru is for curving or turning.

紙を折る (Fold paper) vs ネクタイが曲がる (The tie is crooked).

曲がる vs 歪む (Yugamu)

Both describe something not straight.

Yugamu suggests distortion, warping, or being out of shape in a negative/ugly way. Magaru is more neutral.

眼鏡が歪む (Glasses are distorted/bent out of shape).

曲がる vs 逸れる (Soreru)

Both involve changing direction.

Soreru means to deviate or go off-course/stray. Magaru is a deliberate or structural turn.

矢が逸れる (The arrow goes wide/misses).

Sentence Patterns

[Direction] ni magarimasu.

右に曲がります。

[Place] o magaru.

角を曲がる。

[Subject] ga magatte iru.

道が曲がっている。

[Place] o [Direction] ni magatte kudasai.

そこを左に曲がってください。

[Noun] ga magaru to [Result].

角を曲がると駅がある。

[Subject] wa konjō ga magatte iru.

彼は根性が曲がっている。

[Subject] ga [Adverb] magaru.

ボールが鋭く曲がる。

Magari-nari ni mo [Sentence].

曲がりなりにも完成した。

Word Family

Nouns

曲がり (Magari - a turn/bend)

曲線 (Kyokusen - curve)

屈曲 (Kukkyoku - inflection/bend)

曲折 (Kyokusetsu - twists and turns)

Verbs

曲げる (Mageru - to bend something [transitive])

曲がりくねる (Magari-kuneru - to meander)

折り曲げる (Ori-mageru - to fold and bend)

Adjectives

曲がった (Magatta - bent/crooked)

曲がりくねった (Magari-kunetta - winding)

曲 (Kyoku - a piece of music/melody)

作曲 (Sakkyoku - composition)

屈折 (Kussetsu - refraction)

湾曲 (Wankyoku - curvature)

歪曲 (Waikyoku - distortion)

How to Use It

frequency

Very high in daily life, especially for directions and physical descriptions.

Common Mistakes

Kado ni magaru → Kado o magaru
The particle 'o' is used for the space through which movement occurs. 'Ni' is for the destination or direction.
Hari-gane o magaru → Hari-gane o mageru
'Magaru' is intransitive. Since you are bending the wire, you must use the transitive 'mageru'.
Michi o mawaru (to mean turn) → Michi o magaru
'Mawaru' means to rotate or go around. Use 'magaru' for a simple turn.
Koshi o magaru → Koshi ga magaru
Since 'magaru' is intransitive, the back (koshi) is the subject, so use 'ga'.
Kami o magaru → Kami o oru
For folding paper (origami), 'oru' is the correct verb, not 'magaru'.

Tips

Particle Choice

Always use 'o' for the corner (kado o) and 'ni' for the direction (migi ni). This is the most common mistake for beginners.

Transitivity Pair

Remember the pair: Magaru (Intransitive) / Mageru (Transitive). 'The road turns' vs 'I bend the spoon'.

Navigation Landmarks

In Japan, since many streets don't have names, 'magaru' is usually used with landmarks like 'Seven-Eleven' or 'Post Office'.

The State of Bending

To describe something that is already bent, use 'magatte iru'. 'Kono kugi wa magatte iru' (This nail is bent).

Sulking

If a Japanese person says someone's 'heso' (belly button) is 'magaru', they mean that person is being cranky.

Kanji Meaning

The kanji 曲 also means music/melody. Think of a melody as a line of notes that 'bends' up and down.

The Japanese R

The 'ru' in 'magaru' is a flap. It's not the American 'r'. Tap your tongue quickly behind your teeth.

GPS Commands

If you drive in Japan, listen for 'magarimasu'. It's the most common verb you'll hear from your car's navigation.

Magaru vs Mawaru

'Magaru' is a turn (like an L-shape). 'Mawaru' is a rotation (like a circle).

Describing Character

Using 'magaru' to describe someone's personality is quite strong. Use it carefully as it implies they are dishonest.

Memorize It

Mnemonic

'MA-GA-RU' -> 'My Car' turns the corner. Imagine a car turning and you saying 'My car... magaru!'

Visual Association

Picture a street sign with a sharp 90-degree arrow. That arrow is 'magaru'. Or imagine an old person's bent back forming the shape of the kanji '曲'.

Word Web

Kado (Corner) Migi (Right) Hidari (Left) Michi (Road) Koshi (Back) Konjō (Nature) Mageru (To bend) Massugu (Straight)

Challenge

Try giving someone directions to your favorite park using only 'magaru', 'migi', 'hidari', and 'massugu'.

Word Origin

Derived from the Old Japanese root 'maka-', which relates to bending or twisting. It shares a common ancestry with words like 'maku' (to roll/wind).

Original meaning: To deviate from a straight line; to wind.

Japonic

Cultural Context

Be careful when using 'koshi ga magaru' (back is bent). While descriptive of the elderly, it can be sensitive if used mockingly or insensitively about someone's physical condition.

In English, we often say 'turn' for both people and cars. In Japanese, 'magaru' is very specific to the action of the subject itself. English speakers might over-use 'turn' where 'rotate' (mawaru) is better.

'Magaru' is a key word in the movie 'Swing Girls' (referring to the curve of music). The song 'Magaru' by various J-pop artists often uses the metaphor of a turning point in life. 'Kado o Magare' (Turn the Corner) is a famous song by Keyakizaka46.

Practice in Real Life

Real-World Contexts

Giving Directions

右に曲がってください (Please turn right)
二つ目の角を左に曲がる (Turn left at the second corner)
信号を曲がる (Turn at the light)
そこを曲がればすぐです (If you turn there, it's right there)

Describing Objects

釘が曲がっている (The nail is bent)
ネクタイが曲がっています (Your tie is crooked)
線が曲がった (The line became crooked)
道が曲がりくねっている (The road is winding)

Talking about People

腰が曲がる (Back gets bent/old)
根性が曲がっている (Has a twisted nature)
へそを曲げる (To get sulky)
指を曲げる (To bend fingers)

Sports/Physics

ボールが曲がる (The ball curves)
光が曲がる (Light bends)
軌道が曲がる (The orbit/path shifts)
鋭く曲がる (To curve sharply)

Abstract Situations

話が曲がる (The story gets twisted)
事実を曲げる (To twist the facts - transitive)
信念を曲げない (Don't compromise beliefs - transitive)
人生の曲がり角 (A turning point in life)

Conversation Starters

"すみません、この近くに銀行はありますか？どの角を曲がればいいですか？ (Excuse me, is there a bank nearby? Which corner should I turn?)"

"野球で、カーブがすごく曲がるピッチャーを知っていますか？ (In baseball, do you know a pitcher whose curveball really breaks?)"

"日本の道は曲がりくねっていて面白いですね。 (Japanese roads are winding and interesting, aren't they?)"

"年を取ると腰が曲がるのはなぜだと思いますか？ (Why do you think the back bends as people get older?)"

"「へそを曲げる」という言葉を使ったことがありますか？ (Have you ever used the phrase 'heso o mageru'?)"

Journal Prompts

今日、道に迷って何度も角を曲がりました。その時のことを書いてください。 (Today I got lost and turned many corners. Write about that time.)

自分の性格が「曲がっている」と思ったことはありますか？ (Have you ever thought your own personality was 'twisted'?)

人生の「曲がり角」に立った時、あなたはどうしましたか？ (What did you do when you stood at a 'turning point' in your life?)

曲がった道と真っ直ぐな道、どちらを歩くのが好きですか？ (Do you prefer walking on a winding road or a straight road?)

最近、誰かが「へそを曲げた」場面を見ましたか？ (Did you recently see a situation where someone got sulky?)

Frequently Asked Questions

10 questions

No, 'magaru' only refers to physical turning or bending. For turning off electronics, use 'kesu' or 'kiru'.

It is 'kado o magaru'. The particle 'o' indicates the space through which you move. 'Ni' is used for the direction, like 'migi ni magaru'.

You can say 'magari-kunetta michi' or simply 'magatte iru michi'.

It literally means 'to bend one's belly button', but it's an idiom meaning to get sulky or be in a bad mood.

Yes, in casual speech you can say 'hikari ga magaru'. In scientific contexts, 'kussetsu suru' (refract) is preferred.

No, for folding clothes, you should use the verb 'tatamu' or 'oru'.

'Magaru' means to turn left or right at an intersection. 'Mawaru' means to go around something, like a roundabout or a block.

Not directly. You would use 'kaeru' (to change). However, 'magaru' can describe a personality that has become 'twisted'.

The word is 'kado' (角).

It is a Group 1 (Godan) verb because it ends in '-aru'.