Translation and Meaning of: 恐れ入る - osoreiru

On this page, we will study the meaning of the Japanese word 恐れ入る (osoreiru) and its translation into English. Let's see their different meanings, example phrases, explanations, etymology and the similar words.

Romaji: osoreiru

Kana: おそれいる

Type: verb

L: jlpt-n1

恐れ入る

Translation / Meaning: be filled with wonder; feel small; to be amazed; be surprised; be disconcerted; be sorry; be grateful; be defeated; confess guilt.

Meaning in English: to be filled with awe;to feel small;to be amazed;to be surprised;to be disconcerted;to be sorry;to be grateful;to be defeated;to confess guilt

Definition: Feeling surprised or respected by the actions and things of others.

Sumário
- Etymology
- Vocabulary
- Writing
- Phrases

Explanation and Etymology - (恐れ入る) osoreiru

The Japanese word 「恐れ入る」 (osoreiru) is an expression that can be complicated to understand for those learning the Japanese language. This expression combines the kanji 「恐」 which means "fear" or "respect" and 「入る」 which means "to enter". Thus, the basic composition of the word can be translated as "to enter in respect" or "to take part in reverence". The expression is used to denote a feeling of being deeply impressed or to respectfully apologize.

This expression is regularly used in formal and polite contexts. For example, 「恐れ入りますが」 (osoreirimasu ga) is a polite way to apologize for bothering someone before asking for a favor or to express gratitude when someone has done something that genuinely helps. It is a way to acknowledge the greatness or kindness of the other person, signaling that you are even a little intimidated by the favor received. Therefore, 「恐れ入る」 carries a weight of humility and gratitude.

The origin of 「恐れ入る」 is deeply rooted in Japanese culture, which values social hierarchy and mutual respect. The culture emphasizes the importance of being humble and grateful, especially in situations where help or understanding is received from someone more powerful or knowledgeable. The use of 「恐れ入る」 reflects this sensitivity and allows social interactions to maintain harmony and balance, which are fundamental values in Japanese society. In summary, understanding the use and nuance of 「恐れ入る」 offers a rich insight into how the Japanese language and culture intertwine.

Verbal conjugation of 恐れ入る

See below a small list of verb conjugations: 恐れ入る (osoreiru)

恐れ入ります - Polite and polite manner
恐れ入っております - Polite and courteous manner in the present continuous
恐れ入った - Passed form
恐れ入ろう - Conditional or future form

Synonyms and similar words

恐縮する (Kyoushuku suru) - Feeling embarrassed or awkward; to thank humbly or sincerely for a favor.
おじゃまします (Ojama shimasu) - Expression used when entering someone's house, meaning "sorry to bother."
失礼します (Shitsurei shimasu) - Sorry for the lack of courtesy, which is used when saying goodbye or entering a place in a formal manner.
申し訳ありません (Moushiwake arimasen) - Formal apologies, meaning "I'm sorry", are generally used when you feel that you have caused an inconvenience.
お恥ずかしい限りです (Ohazukashii kagiri desu) - Feeling extremely embarrassed; a very humble way to express shame or embarrassment.
お詫び申し上げます (Owabi moushiagemasu) - Formal expression to apologize, indicating a sincere request for forgiveness.