廃れる

• Reading: すたれる
• Romaji: sutareru
• Kanji breakdown: 廃 (hai/suta) — abolish, abandon, obsolete
• Pronunciation: /sɯ.ta.ɾe.ɾɯ/

Meaning

To go out of use; to become obsolete; to fall out of fashion. Describes something gradually losing its relevance or popularity.

A Group 2 (ichidan) intransitive verb describing the gradual decline of customs, traditions, technologies, or trends. Carries a slightly wistful tone, often used when reflecting on things that were once valued but have faded. Can describe cultural practices, products, businesses, or styles becoming outdated.

Examples

1. その伝統はいつの間にか廃れてしまった。 That tradition fell into disuse before anyone noticed.
2. テクノロジーの進化で廃れた職業も多い。 Many professions have become obsolete due to advances in technology.
3. 流行はすぐに廃れるものだ。 Trends go out of fashion quickly.

Usage Guide

Context: culture, technology, social commentary

Tone: wistful

Origin & History

From the kanji 廃 (abolish, abandon), which combines 广 (building/shelter) with 発 (emit/release), suggesting something being let go from its place — falling out of active use.

Cultural Context

Era: Modern

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal