告げる

• Reading: つげる
• Romaji: tsugeru
• Kanji breakdown: 告 (koku/tsu) — tell, announce, inform
• Pronunciation: /tsɯ.ɡe.ɾɯ/

Meaning

To tell; to inform; to announce. Often used for delivering significant or weighty news.

A Group 2 (ichidan) transitive verb that carries more weight and formality than 言う. Used when the information being conveyed is important, serious, or symbolic. Common in set expressions like 別れを告げる (to say farewell) and 春を告げる (to herald spring). Also appears in medical and legal contexts.

Examples

1. 医者は患者に検査の結果を告げた。 The doctor told the patient the test results.
2. 春の訪れを告げる花が咲き始めた。 Flowers heralding the arrival of spring have begun to bloom.
3. 彼は突然、別れを告げて去っていった。 He suddenly said his goodbyes and left.

Usage Guide

Context: medical, literature, seasonal descriptions

Tone: solemn

Origin & History

From the kanji 告 meaning to tell or announce. Historically used in formal proclamations and legal declarations. The kanji depicts a mouth (口) above a structure, symbolising an official announcement.

Cultural Context

Era: Classical

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal