謝る

• Reading: あやまる
• Romaji: ayamaru
• Kanji breakdown: 謝 (sha/ayama) — apologise, thank, decline
• Pronunciation: /a.ja.ma.ɾɯ/

Meaning

To apologise; to say sorry. Expressing regret for a mistake or wrongdoing.

A Group 1 (godan) verb with る ending (stem ends in ら: 謝らない). Refers to the act of apologising itself, not just feeling sorry. Japanese culture places great importance on sincere apologies, and knowing when and how to 謝る is an essential social skill. Often accompanied by bowing.

Examples

1. 遅刻したことを先生に謝った。 I apologized to the teacher for being late.
2. 自分が悪いときは素直に謝るべきだ。 When you're in the wrong, you should apologize honestly.
3. 友達にひどいことを言ってしまったので、すぐ謝りました。 I said something terrible to my friend, so I apologized right away.

Usage Guide

Context: daily life, social situations, workplace

Tone: neutral

Origin & History

From the kanji 謝 (sha/ayama), meaning to apologise or express thanks. The character combines 言 (words) and 射 (shoot), suggesting words directed outward in acknowledgement.

Cultural Context

Era: Classical

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal