衰える

• Reading: おとろえる
• Romaji: otoroeru
• Kanji breakdown: 衰 (sui/otoro) — decline, wane, weaken
• Pronunciation: /o.to.ɾo.e.ɾɯ/

Meaning

To become weak; to decline; to wane. Describes a gradual loss of strength, power, or vitality.

A Group 2 (ichidan) intransitive verb used for physical, mental, or abstract decline. Commonly describes weakening of body functions with age, fading of influence or power, or deterioration of skills. Often paired with 体力 (physical strength), 記憶力 (memory), or 勢い (momentum).

Examples

1. 年齢とともに体力が衰えてきた。 Physical strength has declined with age.
2. 台風の勢いは夜になって衰えた。 The typhoon's intensity weakened as night fell.
3. 祖父は目が衰えて新聞が読めなくなった。 My grandfather's eyesight declined to the point where he can no longer read the newspaper.

Usage Guide

Context: health, aging, natural phenomena

Tone: descriptive

Origin & History

The kanji 衰 depicts clothing (衣) with a reduced middle section, symbolising something diminished or shrunk. Originally referred to coarse mourning garments, evolving to mean decline or weakening.

Cultural Context

Era: Classical

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal