乗り出す

• Reading: のりだす
• Romaji: noridasu
• Kanji breakdown: 乗 (jō/no) — ride, embark; 出 (shutsu/da) — put out, begin
• Pronunciation: /no.ɾi.da.sɯ/

Meaning

To set out on; to embark on a new venture; to lean forward eagerly; to step in and take action.

A Group 1 (godan) compound verb of 乗る (to ride, to get on) and 出す (to put out, to begin). 乗り出す has two distinct meanings. First, physically, it means to lean or thrust one's body forward — leaning out of a window or leaning in to listen. Second, and more commonly in N1 contexts, it means to embark on or step into an enterprise, investigation, or situation — typically one that requires courage, resources, or a significant decision. Both senses share the idea of moving boldly outward from a position of rest.

Examples

1. 政府はついに汚職問題の本格的な調査に乗り出すと発表した。 The government announced that it would finally embark on a full-scale investigation into the corruption issue.
2. 興味深い話を聞いて、彼は思わず身を乗り出して聞き入った。 Captivated by the interesting story he was hearing, he found himself leaning forward to listen.
3. 海外市場に乗り出すには、リスクを十分に把握した上での決断が必要だ。 Venturing into overseas markets requires a decision made with a thorough understanding of the risks involved.

Usage Guide

Context: business, journalism, daily life, politics

Tone: positive

Origin & History

Compound of 乗る (to ride/mount — suggesting engagement or commitment) and 出す (to put out, to begin an action). The combination conveys the sense of launching oneself forward into a new situation, combining the momentum of mounting something with the outward motion of beginning.

Cultural Context

Era: Contemporary

Generation: Adult

Social background: General