At the A1 level, you should focus on the most basic meaning of 裏切る (uragiru): 'to betray.' While this is a complex concept, you can think of it as 'doing something bad to a friend.' In A1 Japanese, you mostly learn words for objects and simple actions. Uragiru is a bit more advanced, but you might hear it in simple stories or cartoons. A key thing to remember is the kanji: 裏 (ura) means 'back' and 切る (kiru) means 'to cut.' It's like 'cutting someone's back.' If a friend tells your secret to someone else, you can say they uragitta. Just remember that it is a very strong word, so don't use it for small things like a friend being late for lunch. At this level, just knowing that it means 'to betray' and that it is a 'u-verb' (Godan) is enough. You might see it as uragirimashita in polite speech. Try to recognize the word when you see it in anime where characters talk about friends and enemies. It always involves two people and a broken promise. Even if you don't use it yourself yet, knowing this word helps you understand the drama in many Japanese stories.
For A2 learners, 裏切る (uragiru) becomes useful for describing basic social interactions and plot points in stories. You should learn how to conjugate it into the 'te-form' (uragitte) and the past tense (uragitta). For example, 'Kare wa watashi wo uragitta' (He betrayed me). You should also notice that the person who is betrayed is followed by the particle を (wo). At this level, you can also start using it with the word 期待 (kitai), which means 'expectations.' If a movie was not as good as you hoped, you can say 'Kitai wo uragitta.' This is a very common way to use the word without it being about a person. You should also be careful not to confuse it with damasu (to trick). Damasu is what a thief does; uragiru is what a friend does. Understanding this difference will help you use the word correctly in simple conversations. Practice saying 'Uragiranaide kudasai' (Please don't betray me) to get used to the negative request form. This level is about seeing how the word fits into sentences with other common nouns like 'friend' (tomodachi) or 'promise' (yakusoku).
At the B1 level, you are expected to understand the emotional weight and social implications of 裏切る (uragiru). You should be comfortable using the passive form, uragirareru (to be betrayed), as this is how Japanese people often express the feeling of being a victim of betrayal. For example, 'Shinrai shite ita hito ni uragirareru no wa kanashii' (It is sad to be betrayed by someone you trusted). Notice how the person who did the betraying is marked with に (ni). You should also understand the nuance of using this word in professional settings. If a company goes back on its word, it is uragiru. This level also introduces the idea of 'betraying oneself' (jibun wo uragiru), which means to go against your own values or beliefs. You'll encounter this word frequently in media, and you should be able to distinguish it from similar words like somuku (to disobey) or misuteru (to abandon). Understanding the cultural background—how loyalty is a core value in Japan—will help you see why uragiru is such a significant word. You should be able to use it in a variety of tenses and forms, including the conditional 'uragittara' (if [someone] betrays).
B2 learners should have a nuanced command of 裏切る (uragiru) and its abstract applications. You should recognize and use it in idiomatic expressions like 'ii imi de kitai wo uragiru' (to betray expectations in a good way, i.e., to exceed them). This shows a sophisticated understanding of how a negative word can be used positively. You should also be able to use the noun form, 裏切り (uragiri), to discuss complex themes in literature or film. For example, 'Kono monogatari no tēma wa uragiri desu' (The theme of this story is betrayal). At this level, you should be aware of the register: uragiru is generally neutral but carries high emotional intensity. In formal reports or news, you might see more objective terms like hansuru (to be contrary to), and you should know when to choose one over the other. You should also be able to handle the causative-passive form uragiraseru (to make someone betray) in complex sentences. Practice discussing historical events, such as the Sengoku period, where uragiri was a common political tool. This will deepen your understanding of the word's historical and cultural roots in Japanese society.
At the C1 level, your understanding of 裏切る (uragiru) should extend to its literary and philosophical depths. You should be able to analyze how the word is used to construct narrative tension in high-level Japanese literature (Bungaku). For instance, how a character's internal conflict is expressed through the fear of uragiru. You should also be familiar with related kanji compounds and more obscure synonyms like haishin (breach of faith) or hangyaku (treason). You should be able to use uragiru in abstract discussions about ethics, loyalty, and human nature. For example, discussing whether 'betraying a bad law' is a form of justice. Your usage should be flawless, including the ability to use the word in various honorific levels if necessary, though the word itself is rarely used in 'keigo' due to its negative meaning. You should also understand the psychological impact of the word in counseling or deep interpersonal contexts. At this level, you are not just using the word; you are understanding the 'shadow' it casts on the Japanese psyche, where the fear of being an 'uragirimono' (traitor) often dictates social behavior and group dynamics.
As a C2 learner, you possess a native-like intuition for 裏切る (uragiru). You can perceive the subtle difference between a 'betrayal of trust' and a 'betrayal of logic' in complex academic or legal texts. You understand the historical evolution of the word from its literal 'cutting the back' roots to its modern metaphorical uses. You can use the word with precision in high-stakes negotiations or philosophical debates, knowing exactly how much emotional weight it will carry for your audience. You are familiar with its use in classical Japanese (Kobun) contexts if you study literature, and you can compare it with archaic terms for betrayal. You can also identify when the word is being used ironically or sarcastically in contemporary pop culture. Your ability to translate the word into English (or other languages) is sophisticated, recognizing that sometimes 'uragiru' is better translated as 'to fail,' 'to disappoint,' or 'to be inconsistent with,' depending on the context. You understand the legal implications of the noun uragiri in contexts like intellectual property or non-disclosure agreements. At this level, the word is a flexible tool in your linguistic arsenal, used with perfect timing and cultural sensitivity.

裏切る em 30 segundos

  • Uragiru means to betray or be disloyal, often implying a deep breach of trust.
  • It is a Godan verb derived from the words for 'back' and 'cut'.
  • Commonly used with people (targets) and abstract concepts like 'expectations' (kitai).
  • It carries significant emotional weight and is a central theme in Japanese drama.

The Japanese verb 裏切る (uragiru) is a powerful and emotionally charged word that primarily translates to "to betray" or "to be disloyal to." At its core, it describes the act of breaking a promise, a bond of trust, or an established expectation. Unlike simple lying, which is the act of stating a falsehood, uragiru implies a deeper social or personal rupture. It is a Godan verb (Type 1) that combines two distinct kanji: 裏 (ura) meaning "back" or "reverse side," and 切る (kiru) meaning "to cut." Etymologically, it evokes the vivid image of "cutting someone behind their back," similar to the English idiom "stabbing someone in the back." This visual representation makes the word feel particularly sharp and definitive in Japanese conversation.

Core Concept
The fundamental essence of 裏切る is the violation of faith. Whether it is a soldier turning against his country, a spouse being unfaithful, or a friend revealing a secret, the word focuses on the breach of a prior commitment.
Abstract Usage
In modern Japanese, the word has expanded beyond interpersonal relationships to include abstract concepts. For example, a result can "betray" your expectations (期待を裏切る), meaning the outcome was far worse—or surprisingly different—than what was anticipated.

親友に裏切るような真似はしたくない。
(Shinyū ni uragiru yō na mane wa shitakunai.)
I don't want to do anything that would betray my best friend.

Understanding the weight of this word is crucial for learners. In Japanese culture, where harmony (和 - wa) and mutual trust are paramount, being labeled a 裏切り者 (uragirimono - betrayer/traitor) is one of the most severe social condemnations one can receive. It isn't just about the act itself, but the destruction of the social fabric that holds groups together. You will encounter this word frequently in samurai dramas (Jidaigeki), modern detective novels, and anime, where themes of loyalty and revenge are central. However, it is equally common in daily life when discussing sports results or weather forecasts that didn't go as planned.

彼は期待を裏切ることなく、素晴らしい成果を上げた。
(Kare wa kitai wo uragiru koto naku, subarashii seika wo ageta.)
Without betraying expectations, he achieved wonderful results.

Emotional Nuance
The word carries a sense of shock and pain. To be 'uragirareta' (betrayed) implies that you had placed your heart or trust in someone's hands, only for them to discard it.

In business contexts, uragiru might be used to describe a company that suddenly changes its policy against the interests of its long-term partners. While "betray" sounds very dramatic in English business talk, in Japanese, it concisely describes any action that goes against a previous unspoken agreement or trust-based partnership. It emphasizes the moral failure of the party that changed their stance. Because Japanese communication relies heavily on "reading the air" (kuuki wo yomu), failing to meet an unspoken expectation can sometimes be felt as a form of uragiru, even if no explicit contract was signed.

信じていた部下に裏切られるのは辛い。
(Shinjite ita buka ni uragirareru no wa tsurai.)
It is painful to be betrayed by a subordinate you trusted.

予想を裏切る展開に驚いた。
(Yosō wo uragiru tenkai ni odoroita.)
I was surprised by the plot twist that betrayed my predictions.

Social Consequence
In Japanese society, an act of betrayal often leads to 'zetsuden' (cutting off relations) or a permanent loss of face (menboku). The word is heavy and should be used with caution in personal disputes.

Finally, it is worth noting that uragiru is a transitive verb. You are always betraying "something" or "someone." Whether it's a person (hito wo uragiru), a country (kuni wo uragiru), or even oneself (jibun wo uragiru), the object of the betrayal is the focal point of the grammatical structure. When you feel that a situation has let you down, you are essentially saying the situation "cut the back" of your hopes.

Using 裏切る (uragiru) correctly requires an understanding of its conjugation as a Godan (Type 1) verb and the specific particles that accompany it. Because it is an action performed by an agent against a target, the basic structure is [Subject] が [Target] を 裏切る. However, in many contexts, especially when expressing the feeling of being hurt, the passive form 裏切られる (uragirareru) is more common. This shifts the focus to the victim of the betrayal, which is a frequent stylistic choice in Japanese to emphasize emotion and impact.

Grammatical Structure
The target of the betrayal is marked with the object particle を (wo). If you are saying "Don't betray me," it becomes "Watashi wo uragiranaide." If you want to say "I was betrayed by him," you use the passive: "Kare ni uragirareta."
Conjugation Patterns
Dictionary: 裏切る (uragiru)
Polite: 裏切ります (uragirimasu)
Negative: 裏切らない (uragiranai)
Te-form: 裏切って (uragitte)
Past: 裏切った (uragitta)
Passive: 裏切られる (uragirareru)

彼は決して仲間を裏切りません
(Kare wa kesshite nakama wo uragirimasen.)
He will never betray his comrades.

When applying this verb to abstract nouns like "expectations" (期待 - kitai) or "trust" (信頼 - shinrai), the usage remains the same. "To betray trust" is shinrai wo uragiru. This is a very common collocation in both personal and professional settings. In Japanese literature and media, you will often see the phrase ura-giri no rensa (a chain of betrayals), which describes a complex plot where multiple characters turn on each other. This highlights the word's role in narrative tension.

ファンを裏切るような行為は許されない。
(Fan wo uragiru yō na kōi wa yurusarenai.)
Actions that betray the fans cannot be forgiven.

One subtle point for advanced learners is the use of uragiru in the potential form uragireru (can betray). This is often used rhetorically to question someone's character: "How could you betray me?" (Dōshite uragireru no?). It suggests that the act of betrayal is so unthinkable that the speaker can't even fathom the possibility of the other person having the capacity to do it. This adds a layer of moral disbelief to the conversation.

信頼を裏切ってしまい、本当に申し訳ありません。
(Shinrai wo uragitte shimai, hontō ni mōshiwake arimasen.)
I have betrayed your trust, and I am truly sorry.

Collocation with Expectations
Expectations (期待 - kitai) is the most common non-human object for this verb. If a movie is bad, you can say it 'betrayed your expectations' (期待を裏切った). If it is surprisingly good, you might say it 'betrayed your expectations in a good way' (いい意味で期待を裏切った).

Finally, remember that uragiru is a very strong word. In situations where someone just made a mistake or forgot something, using uragiru would be an overstatement. It should be reserved for cases where there is a perceived moral failing or a significant breach of a shared bond. For lighter situations, words like shitsubō saseru (to disappoint) or yaku-soku wo yaburu (to break a promise) are often more appropriate and less accusatory.

彼は自分自身を裏切って、信念を曲げた。
(Kare wa jibun jishin wo uragitte, shinnen wo mageta.)
He betrayed himself and compromised his beliefs.

最後まで仲間を裏切らないと誓った。
(Saigo made nakama wo uragiranai to chikatta.)
I swore not to betray my comrades until the very end.

Common Mistake
Do not confuse 裏切る with 騙す (damasu). Damasu means 'to trick' or 'to deceive' (like a scam), while uragiru means to break trust that already existed.

The word 裏切る (uragiru) is a staple of Japanese storytelling, making it extremely common in fiction, film, and news media. If you watch an episode of a suspenseful anime or a crime drama (keiji dorama), the plot almost inevitably revolves around someone being betrayed. In these contexts, the word is used to heighten drama and signal a major shift in character relationships. You will hear it shouted in moments of peak conflict: "Kisama, ore wo uragitta na!" (You! You betrayed me!). This usage highlights the visceral, high-stakes nature of the word.

News and Politics
In the real world, you'll hear 裏切る in political commentary. When a politician switches parties or votes against their own caucus, the media often describes it as a betrayal of their voters (yūkensha wo uragiru). It is used to frame the action as a moral failing rather than just a strategic move.
Sports and Entertainment
Sports commentators use the word when a heavily favored team loses unexpectedly. They might say the result "betrayed the fans' expectations" (fan no kitai wo uragitta). Similarly, in movie or game reviews, if a highly anticipated sequel is disappointing, critics will say it betrayed the audience.

あの政治家は有権者を裏切ったと言わざるを得ない。
(Ano seijika wa yūkensha wo uragitta to iwazaru wo enai.)
I have to say that politician betrayed the voters.

In everyday life, you might hear this word in gossip or personal discussions about relationships. However, because Japanese people often prefer indirect language, they might use softer terms like shinjite ita no ni... (even though I trusted them...) to imply betrayal without saying the word uragiru directly. When uragiru is actually spoken in a private setting, it indicates that the situation is extremely serious and the speaker feels deeply wronged. It is not a word used lightly in social harmony-focused environments.

この映画の結末は、いい意味で観客を裏切ってくれる。
(Kono eiga no ketsumatsu wa, ii imi de kankyaku wo uragitte kureru.)
The ending of this movie betrays the audience's expectations in a good way.

Historical dramas (Taiga dramas) are perhaps the most rich source for this word. History is full of betrayals, from Akechi Mitsuhide's betrayal of Oda Nobunaga to various clan infighting during the Sengoku period. In these contexts, the word uragiru is tied to the concept of gi (justice/loyalty). To uragiru is to abandon one's gi. This cultural backdrop gives the word a weight that goes beyond simple modern usage, connecting it to centuries of Japanese ethical thought regarding the importance of keeping one's word and remaining loyal to one's lord or group.

信じていたのに、彼女に裏切られたショックは大きい。
(Shinjite ita no ni, kanojo ni uragirareta shokku wa ōkii.)
Despite trusting her, the shock of being betrayed by her is huge.

Video Games and Manga
Look for 'Uragiri' (the noun form) in titles or chapter names. It often signals a turning point where a friend becomes a foe. Characters might say 'Uragiri wa yurusan' (Betrayal is not forgiven).

Lastly, in the context of weather or technology, you might hear it used jokingly. If a weather forecast predicted sun but it rained heavily, someone might say "Tenki yohō ni uragirareta" (I was betrayed by the weather forecast). This personification of inanimate things is a common way to express frustration in a slightly dramatic, yet lighthearted manner. It shows that the concept of "broken expectations" is a very versatile way to use this verb in modern Japanese.

天気予報に裏切られて、ずぶ濡れになった。
(Tenki yohō ni uragirarete, zubunure ni natta.)
I was betrayed by the weather forecast and got soaking wet.

When learning 裏切る (uragiru), English speakers often make several common errors, ranging from particle usage to choosing the wrong word for the situation. Because "betray" has a specific set of meanings in English, learners tend to apply it to every situation where trust is broken, but Japanese has several other words that might be more precise depending on the context. Understanding these nuances will help you sound more natural and avoid sounding overly dramatic or accidentally rude.

Confusing 'Uragiru' with 'Damasu'
The most common mistake is using 裏切る when you mean 騙す (damasu). 'Damasu' means to trick, deceive, or lie to someone (like a scammer). 'Uragiru' requires a pre-existing relationship or trust. You can't 'uragiru' a stranger who you just met, but you can certainly 'damasu' them.
Particle Errors (Ni vs Wo)
In the active voice, the person betrayed takes 'wo' (を). In the passive voice, the person who did the betraying takes 'ni' (に). Many learners say 'Kare ni uragitta' (I betrayed to him), which is incorrect. It should be 'Kare wo uragitta' (I betrayed him).

❌ 詐欺師に裏切られた
✅ 詐欺師に騙された
(Sagishi ni damasareta - I was tricked by a scammer.)

Another mistake is overusing the word in minor situations. In English, we might say "You betrayed me!" if a friend eats the last slice of pizza we were saving. In Japanese, using uragiru for such a trivial matter sounds extremely heavy and serious. It might make the other person feel genuinely attacked rather than just teased. For small breaches of trust, use hidoi! (That's mean!) or yakusoku shita no ni! (But you promised!).

❌ 友達が私の秘密を言って、私を騙した
✅ 友達が私の秘密を言って、私を裏切った
(A friend betrayed me by telling my secret.)

Confusion also arises with the word somuku (背く). While somuku also means to go against or disobey, it is more often used for disobeying orders or turning one's back on a principle. Uragiru is more about the personal breach of trust. If you disobey your parents, it's oya ni somuku. If you sell your parents' house without telling them, it's oya wo uragiru. The latter involves a much higher level of emotional damage.

期待を裏切る (Kitai wo uragiru) is a fixed phrase. Don't try to replace 'uragiru' here with 'yaburu' (break), even though we say 'break a promise' in English.

Misusing the Potential Form
The potential form 裏切れる (uragireru) sounds like you are capable of betrayal. If you say 'Uragireru!' you might be saying 'I can betray!' which sounds like you are a villain. Usually, this form is used in questions or negatives: 'Uragirenai' (I cannot betray).

Finally, be careful with the word miuteru (見捨てる), which means to abandon or desert. If a friend leaves you in a difficult situation, they are miuteru. If they actively join your enemies, they uragiru. The distinction is between passive abandonment and active betrayal. Mixing these up can change the entire meaning of your story or complaint.

❌ 彼は私に裏切った
✅ 彼は私を裏切った
(He betrayed me.)

While 裏切る (uragiru) is the most common word for betrayal, Japanese offers a variety of synonyms and related terms that carry different nuances. Choosing the right one depends on whether you are talking about breaking a law, disobeying a superior, or simply failing to meet a standard. Understanding these alternatives will help you refine your expression and understand more complex Japanese texts and conversations.

背く (Somuku)
Meaning: To go against, to disobey, to turn one's back on. Nuance: This is often used for abstract principles or authority figures. 'Kuni no okite ni somuku' means to go against the laws of the land. It feels more formal and less personal than 裏切る.
見捨てる (Misuteru)
Meaning: To abandon, to desert, to leave someone in the lurch. Nuance: This is about 'leaving' rather than 'attacking.' If you leave a struggling friend behind, you are 見捨てる. It is a betrayal of responsibility rather than a betrayal of a secret or a bond.

王の命令に背くことはできない。
(Ō no meirei ni somuku koto wa dekinai.)
I cannot go against the King's orders.

Another important word is azamu-ku (欺く), which means to deceive or delude. While uragiru focuses on the breach of trust, azamuku focuses on the cleverness and falseness of the act. It is often used in the context of strategy or war. For example, 'Teki wo azamuku' (to deceive the enemy) is a common phrase. In contrast, 'Teki wo uragiru' would mean you were originally on the enemy's side and then joined the other side. The difference lies in the initial loyalty.

仲間を見捨てるようなことは絶対にしない。
(Nakama wo misuteru yō na koto wa zettai ni shinai.)
I will never do anything like abandoning my comrades.

反する (Hansuru)
Meaning: To oppose, to be contrary to. Nuance: This is the most formal and objective term. It is used for facts or expectations. 'Yosō ni hansuru' (contrary to expectations) is a more clinical version of 'Yosō wo uragiru'. It is often used in academic or news reports.

For romantic contexts, the word uwaki suru (浮気する - to cheat) is more specific than uragiru. While cheating is a form of betrayal, using uragiru to describe it makes it sound like a dramatic plot point in a movie. In everyday conversation, uwaki is the standard term. Similarly, furin (不倫) is used for adultery. Using uragiru in these cases emphasizes the moral betrayal of the partner's soul rather than the specific act of infidelity.

予想に反して、株価が下落した。
(Yosō ni hanshite, kabuka ga geraku shita.)
Contrary to expectations, the stock price fell.

敵を欺いて城に侵入した。
(Teki wo azamuite jō ni shinnyū shita.)
He deceived the enemy and entered the castle.

Register Note
In very formal or historical contexts, you might see 反逆する (hangyaku suru), which means to rebel or commit treason. This is the ultimate form of 'uragiru' against a state or a lord.

How Formal Is It?

Curiosidade

The imagery of 'cutting the back' is remarkably similar to the English 'stabbing in the back,' showing how humans across cultures associate betrayal with an attack from behind where one is vulnerable.

Guia de pronúncia

UK /ʊrəˈɡɪruː/
US /ʊrəˈɡɪruː/
Japanese pitch accent: Heiban (flat). The pitch stays relatively level throughout the word.
Rima com
Sugiru (to pass) Kagiru (to limit) Nigiru (to grasp) Magiru (to mix - archaic) Yogiru (to cross) Shikiru (to manage) Ikiru (to live) Tukiru (to exhaust)
Erros comuns
  • Pronouncing 'r' like an English 'r' (it should be a light tap).
  • Putting heavy stress on 'gi' (it should be even).
  • Mixing up with 'uragiru' (betray) and 'uragaru' (which doesn't exist).
  • Elongating the 'i' too much.
  • Not pronouncing the final 'u' clearly in polite speech.

Nível de dificuldade

Leitura 3/5

The kanji are common but require N3 level knowledge.

Escrita 4/5

Writing '裏' (ura) can be tricky for beginners due to the stroke order.

Expressão oral 3/5

Conjugation is standard Godan, but nuances of usage are tricky.

Audição 2/5

The word is very distinct and easy to catch in dialogue.

O que aprender depois

Pré-requisitos

信じる (shinjiru) - to trust 切る (kiru) - to cut 裏 (ura) - back 期待 (kitai) - expectation 約束 (yakusoku) - promise

Aprenda a seguir

背く (somuku) - to go against 欺く (azamuku) - to deceive 見捨てる (misuteru) - to abandon 復讐 (fukushū) - revenge 忠実 (chūjitsu) - faithful

Avançado

反逆 (hangyaku) - treason 背信行為 (haishin-kōi) - breach of trust 恩を仇で返す (on wo ada de kaesu) - to return a favor with evil 内通 (naitsū) - secret betrayal/collusion 変節 (hensetsu) - changing one's principles

Gramática essencial

Passive Voice (Rareu/Rare)

裏切られる (To be betrayed)

Te-form for sequencing

仲間を裏切って、逃げた。 (Betrayed comrades and ran.)

Nominalization with 'Koto'

期待を裏切ることは悲しい。 (Betraying expectations is sad.)

Potential Form

誰も裏切れない。 (Cannot betray anyone.)

Relative Clauses

私を裏切った人。 (The person who betrayed me.)

Exemplos por nível

1

彼は友達を裏切りました。

He betrayed his friend.

Simple past polite form: uragirimashita.

2

裏切らないでください。

Please don't betray me.

Negative request: uragiranaide kudasai.

3

彼女は私を裏切った。

She betrayed me.

Plain past form: uragitta.

4

裏切りはだめです。

Betrayal is bad.

Noun form: uragiri.

5

犬は主人を裏切らない。

A dog does not betray its master.

Negative plain form: uragiranai.

6

誰が裏切りましたか?

Who betrayed (you/them)?

Question form with 'dare' (who).

7

彼は私を裏切るでしょう。

He will probably betray me.

Conjecture form: uragiru deshō.

8

裏切ることは悪いです。

Betraying is bad.

Gerund-like use: uragiru koto.

1

映画は私の期待を裏切った。

The movie betrayed my expectations.

Abstract object: kitai (expectations).

2

友達を裏切ってはいけません。

You must not betray your friends.

Prohibition form: te wa ikemasen.

3

彼は絶対に裏切りません。

He will never betray (you).

Adverb 'zettai ni' (absolutely) with negative.

4

裏切られたと感じました。

I felt betrayed.

Passive past form: uragirareta.

5

約束を裏切るのはやめて。

Stop breaking (betraying) the promise.

Informal request: yamete.

6

彼は私を裏切るつもりだ。

He intends to betray me.

Intention form: tsumori da.

7

信じていたのに裏切られた。

Even though I trusted them, I was betrayed.

Contrastive particle 'noni' (even though).

8

裏切る人は嫌いです。

I hate people who betray.

Relative clause modifying 'hito' (person).

1

信頼を裏切るようなことはしたくない。

I don't want to do anything that would betray trust.

Using 'yō na' to mean 'the kind of'.

2

彼は自分の信念を裏切った。

He betrayed his own beliefs.

Reflexive object: jibun no shinnen.

3

結果が予想を裏切ることになった。

The result ended up betraying expectations.

Resultative form: koto ni natta.

4

誰かに裏切られるのは辛い経験だ。

Being betrayed by someone is a painful experience.

Nominalized passive phrase as subject.

5

裏切るくらいなら、死んだほうがいい。

I'd rather die than betray.

Comparison: kurai nara... hō ga ii.

6

彼は裏切り者として町を追われた。

He was driven out of town as a traitor.

Noun compound: uragirimono (traitor).

7

もし彼が裏切ったら、どうしますか?

What will you do if he betrays (us)?

Conditional 'tara'.

8

期待を裏切らないように頑張ります。

I will do my best so as not to betray expectations.

Purpose clause: yō ni.

1

いい意味で期待を裏切ってくれました。

It betrayed my expectations in a good way.

Idiomatic phrase: ii imi de.

2

彼は仲間の信頼を裏切り、敵に寝返った。

He betrayed his comrades' trust and defected to the enemy.

Compound action: uragiri, negaetta.

3

裏切られる恐怖から、誰も信じられなくなった。

Due to the fear of being betrayed, I could no longer trust anyone.

Causative of emotion: kyōfu kara.

4

このドラマは、視聴者の予想を何度も裏切る。

This drama betrays the viewers' predictions many times.

Frequentative usage.

5

自分の良心を裏切ることはできない。

I cannot betray my own conscience.

Abstract object: ryōshin (conscience).

6

裏切りが発覚し、組織は混乱に陥った。

The betrayal was discovered, and the organization fell into chaos.

Noun form 'uragiri' as a subject.

7

彼は恩人を裏切るような冷酷な男だ。

He is a cold-hearted man who would betray his benefactor.

Character description using a relative clause.

8

期待を裏切られた時のショックは計り知れない。

The shock when expectations are betrayed is immeasurable.

Complex noun phrase: uragirareta toki no shokku.

1

その政策は国民の期待を著しく裏切るものだった。

That policy significantly betrayed the expectations of the citizens.

Adverb 'ichijirushiku' (significantly).

2

彼は私利私欲のために、長年の友を裏切ったのだ。

He betrayed his long-time friend for the sake of personal gain.

Reasoning: shiri-shiyoku no tame ni.

3

裏切りの代償は、あまりにも大きかった。

The price of betrayal was far too high.

Abstract noun: daishō (compensation/price).

4

彼は組織を裏切るふりをして、実は潜入捜査をしていた。

He pretended to betray the organization, but was actually doing an undercover investigation.

Conditional appearance: furi wo shite.

5

一度裏切った者は、二度と信用されない。

A person who has betrayed once will never be trusted again.

Proverbial structure.

6

期待を裏切ることの連続に、彼は絶望した。

He fell into despair due to a series of betrayed expectations.

Noun phrase: uragiru koto no renzoku.

7

裏切られた側だけでなく、裏切った側も苦しむことがある。

Not only the betrayed side, but the betraying side can also suffer.

Contrastive subjects: uragirareta gawa / uragitta gawa.

8

歴史は、多くの裏切りによって塗り替えられてきた。

History has been rewritten by many betrayals.

Passive metaphorical usage.

1

彼の行動は、民主主義の根本的な原則を裏切るものである。

His actions betray the fundamental principles of democracy.

High-level political discourse.

2

期待を裏切るという行為が、いかに共同体を破壊するかを論じる。

Discussing how the act of betraying expectations destroys a community.

Academic inquiry structure.

3

裏切りという名の刃が、彼の心を深く切り裂いた。

The blade named betrayal deeply tore through his heart.

Metaphorical literary style.

4

彼は、自らのアイデンティティを裏切るような選択を迫られた。

He was forced to make a choice that would betray his own identity.

Existential theme.

5

その研究結果は、既存の科学的知見を根本から裏切るものだった。

The research results fundamentally betrayed (contradicted) existing scientific knowledge.

Scientific/Academic context.

6

裏切り者の烙印を押された彼は、孤独な余生を送った。

Branded as a traitor, he spent the rest of his life in solitude.

Idiomatic expression: rakuin wo osareru.

7

期待を裏切ることで得られる利益など、たかが知れている。

The profit gained by betraying expectations is trivial at best.

Dismissive expression: taka ga shirete iru.

8

彼は、裏切りという行為の背後にある心理的メカニズムを解明した。

He elucidated the psychological mechanisms behind the act of betrayal.

Complex technical sentence.

Colocações comuns

期待を裏切る
信頼を裏切る
仲間を裏切る
自分を裏切る
予想を裏切る
国民を裏切る
約束を裏切る
ファンを裏切る
信念を裏切る
愛情を裏切る

Frases Comuns

期待を裏切らない

— To not let someone down; to meet expectations.

彼はいつも期待を裏切らない。

いい意味で期待を裏切る

— To exceed expectations in a positive way.

この料理はいい意味で期待を裏切る美味しさだ。

裏切り者

— A traitor or betrayer.

彼は裏切り者として嫌われている。

裏切りの連鎖

— A chain or cycle of betrayals.

裏切りの連鎖を断ち切る。

自分を裏切らない

— To stay true to oneself.

努力は自分を裏切らない。

裏切られたショック

— The shock of being betrayed.

裏切られたショックで立ち直れない。

裏切り行為

— An act of betrayal.

それは明らかな裏切り行為だ。

裏切りに遭う

— To suffer a betrayal (more formal).

非情な裏切りに遭った。

裏切りを許す

— To forgive a betrayal.

彼の裏切りを許すことはできない。

裏切りを恐れる

— To fear betrayal.

裏切りを恐れて誰も信じられない。

Frequentemente confundido com

裏切る vs 騙す (damasu)

Damasu is to trick/deceive; Uragiru is to break trust.

裏切る vs 背く (somuku)

Somuku is to disobey authority/rules; Uragiru is more personal.

裏切る vs 見捨てる (misuteru)

Misuteru is to abandon; Uragiru is to actively work against.

Expressões idiomáticas

"飼い犬に手を噛まれる"

— To be betrayed by a trusted subordinate or protégé.

まさに飼い犬に手を噛まれる思いだ。

Common
"後ろ足で砂をかける"

— To betray someone's kindness when leaving them.

恩人に後ろ足で砂をかけるような真似をするな。

Common
"恩を仇で返す"

— To return a favor with evil; to betray a benefactor.

恩を仇で返すような奴は許せない。

Common
"手のひらを返す"

— To suddenly change one's attitude or loyalty.

形勢が悪くなると、彼は手のひらを返した。

Common
"二枚舌を使う"

— To be double-tongued; to lie or be deceitful.

彼は二枚舌を使って仲間を裏切った。

Common
"内股膏薬"

— A person who changes sides easily; a fence-sitter.

あいつは内股膏薬だから信用できない。

Old-fashioned
"毒を食らわば皿まで"

— If you've started something bad (like betrayal), go all the way.

毒を食らわば皿まで、最後まで裏切り通す。

Literary
"腹に一物ある"

— To have a hidden motive (often a plan to betray).

彼はにこやかだが、腹に一物ありそうだ。

Common
"猫を被る"

— To feign innocence (often while planning betrayal).

彼女は猫を被っているが、実は裏切り者だ。

Common
"仏の顔も三度まで"

— Even a saint's patience has limits (often said after betrayals).

仏の顔も三度までだ。もう裏切りは許さない。

Common

Fácil de confundir

裏切る vs 騙す (damasu)

Both involve a lack of honesty.

Damasu is about the lie itself. Uragiru is about the relationship that was broken. You can't betray a stranger, but you can trick them.

詐欺師に騙された。 (Tricked by a scammer.)

裏切る vs 浮気する (uwaki suru)

Both relate to romantic disloyalty.

Uwaki is specifically cheating. Uragiru is a broader term for any betrayal of trust, including cheating.

彼は浮気をした。 (He cheated.)

裏切る vs 破る (yaburu)

Both mean 'to break'.

Yaburu is for physical objects or literal promises (yakusoku wo yaburu). Uragiru is for the deeper trust behind the promise.

記録を破る。 (To break a record.)

裏切る vs 反する (hansuru)

Both mean going against something.

Hansuru is objective/formal (against the law). Uragiru is subjective/emotional (against my heart).

意向に反する。 (Contrary to intentions.)

裏切る vs 失望させる (shitsubō saseru)

Both result in disappointment.

Shitsubō saseru is just 'to disappoint'. Uragiru is much stronger, implying a moral failure or act of malice.

親を失望させた。 (I disappointed my parents.)

Padrões de frases

A2

A は B を 裏切った。

彼は私を裏切った。

B1

A は B に 裏切られた。

私は彼に裏切られた。

B1

期待を裏切る。

結果は期待を裏切った。

B2

いい意味で期待を裏切る。

この店はいい意味で期待を裏切る。

C1

裏切るようなことはしない。

私はあなたを裏切るようなことはしない。

C1

裏切り者として A。

彼は裏切り者として追放された。

C2

A を裏切るという行為。

国民を裏切るという行為は許されない。

C2

裏切りの代償として A。

裏切りの代償として彼は全てを失った。

Família de palavras

Substantivos

裏切り (uragiri) - Betrayal
裏切り者 (uragirimono) - Traitor
背信 (haishin) - Breach of trust
反逆 (hangyaku) - Rebellion

Verbos

裏切る (uragiru) - To betray
裏切られる (uragirareru) - To be betrayed
裏切らせる (uragiraseru) - To make someone betray

Adjetivos

裏切りがちな (uragirigachi na) - Prone to betrayal
裏切りようのない (uragiriyō no nai) - Impossible to betray

Relacionado

信頼 (trust)
期待 (expectation)
約束 (promise)
仲間 (comrade)
復讐 (revenge)

Como usar

frequency

Common in media, news, and serious discussions; rare in casual small talk.

Erros comuns
  • Using 'ni' instead of 'wo' for the target. Kare wo uragiru.

    Uragiru is transitive. The target of the betrayal is the direct object.

  • Using 'uragiru' for a scammer. Sagishi ni damasareta.

    You can't be betrayed by someone you didn't trust to begin with. Use 'damasu' for scams.

  • Using 'uragiru' for a friend being 5 minutes late. Matasete hidoi!

    Uragiru is too heavy for minor inconveniences. It sounds like you are ending the friendship.

  • Confusing 'uragiru' with 'somuku'. Okite ni somuku.

    Use 'somuku' for laws or principles. Use 'uragiru' for personal relationships.

  • Mixing up the passive and active forms. Uragirareta (I was betrayed).

    Learners often say 'Uragitta' when they mean they were the victim. Ensure you use the passive '-rare-' form.

Dicas

Particle Mastery

Remember that in 'A wo uragiru', A is the victim. In 'A ni uragirareru', A is the betrayer. This is a common point of confusion for learners.

Weight of the Word

Only use 'uragiru' for serious matters. For small things, use 'shitsubō' (disappointment) or 'hidoi' (mean).

Fixed Phrase

Memorize 'kitai wo uragiru' as a single unit. It is the most frequent way you will hear this word used in non-dramatic contexts.

Loyalty First

Understand that betrayal is a major cultural taboo in Japan. Using this word implies a total breakdown of social harmony.

Exceeding Expectations

Use 'ii imi de...' to turn this negative word into a high compliment for a movie, restaurant, or performance.

Emotional Intonation

When using 'uragitta' in a serious way, the pitch is flat, but the volume often increases to show shock.

Anime Cues

In anime, 'uragiri' often happens right before a commercial break or at the end of an episode. It's a key 'cliffhanger' word.

Kanji Practice

The kanji 裏 (ura) has many strokes. Practice the top part carefully so it doesn't look like similar kanji like 表 (omote).

Business Context

In business, 'uragiru' can refer to leaking secrets or joining a competitor. It is a very serious accusation.

Dog Idiom

Learn 'kaiinu ni te wo kamaneru' to describe being betrayed by someone you helped. It’s a very common idiomatic use of the concept.

Memorize

Mnemônico

Think of 'Ura' (Back) and 'Kiru' (Cut). If you 'Cut the Back' of a friend, you are betraying them.

Associação visual

Visualize a samurai holding a sword behind his back, ready to cut his ally when they aren't looking.

Word Web

Ura (Back) Kiru (Cut) Trust Traitor Expectations Shock Drama Spy

Desafio

Try to use 'uragiru' in three different ways today: once for a person, once for a movie, and once for a weather forecast.

Origem da palavra

The word 'uragiru' is a compound of 'ura' (裏) and 'kiru' (切る). It dates back to the early medieval period of Japanese.

Significado original: Literally 'to cut the back' or 'to cut the inside/reverse side'.

Japonic / Yamato Kotoba.

Contexto cultural

Be careful using this word in personal arguments; it is very strong and can end friendships permanently.

In English, 'betray' is often used for secrets. In Japanese, it's more about the social bond and group loyalty.

Akechi Mitsuhide (famous historical betrayer of Oda Nobunaga). The 'Uragiri' arc in various Shonen anime like Naruto or Bleach. The movie 'Uragiri no Machi' (City of Betrayal).

Pratique na vida real

Contextos reais

Personal Relationships

  • 親友に裏切られた。
  • 彼は決して裏切らない。
  • 信頼を裏切ってごめん。
  • 裏切りは許さない。

Movies and Stories

  • 予想を裏切るラスト。
  • 裏切り者が誰か探す。
  • 裏切りの物語。
  • いい意味で期待を裏切る。

Business and Politics

  • 契約を裏切る行為。
  • 有権者を裏切った。
  • 会社の期待を裏切る。
  • 裏切りの代償。

Sports

  • ファンの期待を裏切る。
  • 予想を裏切る逆転劇。
  • 結果が期待を裏切った。
  • 裏切らないプレー。

Self-Reflection

  • 自分を裏切りたくない。
  • 信念を裏切った。
  • 過去の自分を裏切る。
  • 理想を裏切る現実。

Iniciadores de conversa

"最近、期待を裏切られた映画はありますか? (Is there a movie that betrayed your expectations recently?)"

"「裏切り」をテーマにしたアニメでおすすめは? (Do you have any recommendations for anime with 'betrayal' as a theme?)"

"絶対に裏切らない友達はどんな人だと思いますか? (What kind of person do you think is a friend who never betrays?)"

"天気予報に裏切られたことはありますか? (Have you ever been betrayed by a weather forecast?)"

"いい意味で期待を裏切るサプライズは好きですか? (Do you like surprises that betray your expectations in a good way?)"

Temas para diário

誰かに期待を裏切られた時の気持ちを日本語で書いてみましょう。 (Write about how you felt when someone betrayed your expectations.)

自分が自分自身を裏切ってしまった経験はありますか? (Have you ever had an experience where you betrayed yourself?)

ドラマや映画の中で、最も衝撃的だった裏切りのシーンについて説明してください。 (Explain the most shocking betrayal scene you've seen in a drama or movie.)

「努力は自分を裏切らない」という言葉についてどう思いますか? (What do you think about the saying 'Effort doesn't betray you'?)

もしあなたがスパイだったら、仲間を裏切ることができますか? (If you were a spy, could you betray your comrades?)

Perguntas frequentes

10 perguntas

Yes, but it sounds very serious. If you just forgot to buy milk, 'yakusoku wo yaburu' or 'wasureta' is better. Use 'uragiru' if the broken promise destroyed your trust in that person.

'Uragiru' is active (I betray him), and 'uragirareru' is passive (I am betrayed by him). In Japanese, the passive form is very common when talking about one's own feelings of hurt.

It is very strong, like 'traitor' or 'backstabber'. It's common in movies but very rare and offensive in real-life casual conversation unless said jokingly.

You can say 'Kitai wo uragiranaide kudasai' (Please don't betray my expectations). This is a standard and polite way to express that.

Only in the phrase 'ii imi de kitai wo uragiru' (betray expectations in a good way). This means the result was surprisingly better than expected.

Use the particle 'wo' (を). Example: Tomodachi wo uragiru.

Yes, 'uragiri' (裏切り) is the noun form, meaning 'betrayal'.

Yes! 'Tenki yohō ni uragirareta' is a common, slightly dramatic way to say the forecast was wrong.

It is 裏 (ura - back) and 切る (kiru - cut). Together they form 裏切る.

It is a transitive verb (tadoshi), meaning it usually takes an object marked by 'wo'.

Teste-se 190 perguntas

writing

Translate to Japanese: 'He betrayed his friend.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
writing

Translate to Japanese: 'Please don't betray me.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
writing

Translate to Japanese: 'I was betrayed by him.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
writing

Translate to Japanese: 'The movie betrayed my expectations.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
writing

Translate to Japanese: 'He is a traitor.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
writing

Write a sentence using 'uragiru' and 'kitai' (expectations).

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
writing

Translate to Japanese: 'I never want to betray my comrades.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
writing

Translate to Japanese: 'The result betrayed the forecast.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
writing

Translate to Japanese: 'It betrayed my expectations in a good way.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
writing

Write a sentence about being betrayed by a pet (using the idiom).

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
writing

Translate to Japanese: 'Betrayal is the worst thing.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
writing

Translate to Japanese: 'Who betrayed the secret?'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
writing

Translate to Japanese: 'I won't betray your trust.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
writing

Translate to Japanese: 'He betrayed himself.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
writing

Translate to Japanese: 'Don't betray the fans.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
writing

Translate to Japanese: 'I felt betrayed by the company.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
writing

Translate to Japanese: 'She will never betray us.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
writing

Translate to Japanese: 'The price of betrayal is high.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
writing

Translate to Japanese: 'I was shocked to be betrayed.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
writing

Translate to Japanese: 'He betrayed the law.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
speaking

Say 'He betrayed me' in Japanese.

Read this aloud:

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
speaking

Say 'Don't betray my trust' in Japanese.

Read this aloud:

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
speaking

Say 'I was betrayed by a friend' in Japanese.

Read this aloud:

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
speaking

Say 'The movie was better than expected' using 'uragiru'.

Read this aloud:

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
speaking

Talk about a time you were betrayed by the weather.

Read this aloud:

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
speaking

Explain what 'uragirimono' means in Japanese.

Read this aloud:

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
speaking

Say 'I will never betray you' in Japanese.

Read this aloud:

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
speaking

Say 'I don't want to betray my beliefs' in Japanese.

Read this aloud:

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
speaking

Ask 'Who is the traitor?' in Japanese.

Read this aloud:

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
speaking

Say 'The result was unexpected' using 'uragiru'.

Read this aloud:

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
speaking

Say 'I'm sorry for betraying you' in Japanese.

Read this aloud:

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
speaking

Say 'It's hard to trust after being betrayed' in Japanese.

Read this aloud:

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
speaking

Say 'Stop betraying your friends' in Japanese.

Read this aloud:

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
speaking

Say 'I felt betrayed by the news' in Japanese.

Read this aloud:

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
speaking

Say 'He is a man who doesn't betray expectations' in Japanese.

Read this aloud:

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
speaking

Say 'I'd rather die than betray' in Japanese.

Read this aloud:

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
speaking

Say 'Betrayal is a common theme in anime' in Japanese.

Read this aloud:

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
speaking

Say 'He betrayed his country for money' in Japanese.

Read this aloud:

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
speaking

Say 'Don't let me down' in Japanese politely.

Read this aloud:

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
speaking

Say 'The shock was immeasurable' regarding betrayal.

Read this aloud:

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
listening

Identify the word: 'Kare wa watashi wo uragitta.'

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
listening

Identify the word: 'Kitai wo uragiranai de.'

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
listening

Identify the word: 'Uragirareta n'da.'

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
listening

Identify the word: 'Uragirimono wa dare da?'

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
listening

Identify the word: 'Shinrai wo uragiru kōi.'

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
listening

Identify the word: 'Uragitte shimatta.'

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
listening

Identify the word: 'Uragiri no rensa.'

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
listening

Identify the word: 'Ii imi de uragitta.'

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
listening

Identify the word: 'Uragirenai kankei.'

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
listening

Identify the word: 'Uragiraseru tsumori ka?'

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
listening

Identify the word: 'Uragiri wa yurusan.'

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
listening

Identify the word: 'Nakama wo uragiru na.'

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
listening

Identify the word: 'Jibun wo uragiru.'

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
listening

Identify the word: 'Yosō wo uragiru.'

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
listening

Identify the word: 'Uragirareta shock.'

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:

/ 190 correct

Perfect score!

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