はらむ

• Reading: はらむ
• Romaji: haramu
• Pronunciation: /ha.ɾa.mɯ/

Meaning

To be pregnant; to harbour; to contain latent risk or potential. The figurative sense is dominant in formal writing.

A Group 1 (godan) verb with both biological and figurative meanings. Literally, it means to become pregnant or carry a child. In its far more common modern usage, it describes something that contains, harbours, or has the potential for something — especially risks, contradictions, or volatile elements. Common in journalism and analysis: リスクをはらむ (to carry risk), 矛盾をはらむ (to harbour contradictions).

Examples

1. その計画は多くのリスクをはらんでいることを忘れてはならない。 We must not forget that the plan harbors many risks.
2. 彼の発言は深刻な矛盾をはらんでおり、専門家から批判を受けた。 His remarks contained serious contradictions and drew criticism from experts.
3. 嵐の前の静けさは、大きな変化をはらんでいることが多い。 The calm before the storm often harbors the potential for great change.

Usage Guide

Context: analysis, journalism, risk management, literature

Tone: neutral

Origin & History

From Old Japanese はらむ, originally referring to the swelling of the belly during pregnancy. The image of something growing within — unseen but present — naturally extended to abstract notions of latent contents: risks, dangers, or contradictions residing within something apparently simple.

Cultural Context

Era: Modern

Generation: Adults

Social background: Educated