直る

• Reading: なおる
• Romaji: naoru
• Kanji breakdown: 直 (choku/nao) — straight, fix, direct
• Pronunciation: /na.o.ɾɯ/

Meaning

To be repaired; to be fixed; to be corrected. Describes objects or errors returning to proper condition.

A Group 1 (godan) intransitive verb. Unlike 治る (to heal from illness), 直る focuses on objects, machines, and errors being restored to working order. The transitive pair is 直す (naosu, to fix/correct). Used for broken appliances, corrected mistakes, and things going back to normal.

Examples

1. パソコンが壊れたけど、もう直りました。 My computer broke, but it's already been fixed.
2. 姿勢が悪いと言われたが、なかなか直らない。 I was told my posture is bad, but it's hard to correct.
3. エアコンが直るまで扇風機を使います。 I'll use a fan until the air conditioner is repaired.

Usage Guide

Context: repairs, daily life, technology

Tone: neutral

Origin & History

The kanji 直 means straight or direct. As a verb, it captures the idea of something returning to its proper, straight condition — being set right.

Cultural Context

Era: Ancient

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal