憂う

• Reading: うれう
• Romaji: ureu
• Kanji breakdown: 憂 (yū/ure) — grief, sorrow, melancholy, anxiety
• Pronunciation: /ɯ.ɾe.ɯ/

Meaning

To grieve; to lament; to be worried about. A literary and elevated word expressing deep concern, sorrow, or anxiety — often about societal or national issues.

A Group 1 (godan) verb in the classical -u pattern (conjugates as 憂わない, 憂い, 憂う). The modern variant 憂える (ichidan) also exists but 憂う is preferred in formal and literary writing. Expresses a profound, ongoing concern rather than momentary worry — the kind of sorrow felt by those who see larger problems unfolding. Commonly paired with objects such as 将来 (future), 社会 (society), or 行く末 (fate).

Examples

1. 国の将来を憂う若者たちが、政治への関心を高めている。 Young people who grieve for the nation's future are becoming more engaged in politics.
2. 彼は環境破壊を深く憂い、長年保護活動に献身した。 Deeply troubled by environmental destruction, he devoted himself to conservation efforts for many years.
3. 人類の行く末を憂う声は、古来から絶えることなく続いてきた。 Voices lamenting the fate of humanity have continued without cease since ancient times.

Usage Guide

Context: politics, environment, literature, philosophy

Tone: serious

Origin & History

From Old Japanese うれふ (urefu), expressing sorrow and care. The kanji 憂 (yū/ure) depicts a heart burdened by a heavy mask-like face, conveying a deep, internal grief that weighs on the spirit.

Cultural Context

Era: Classical–Modern

Generation: Adults

Social background: Educated