GRAMMAR DETAIL
きらいがある
Offers a mild criticism of an undesirable tendency in a person or group.
Examples
彼は細部を気にしすぎるきらいがある。
He has a tendency to worry too much about details.
Words used
彼は人の話を聞かないきらいがある。
He has a tendency not to listen to others.
Words used
Study notes
1. Origins, structure, and basic meaning
- Structure: Attach
きらいがあるto a plain-form verb to mildly criticize someone as having an undesirable tendency. - Basic usage:
彼は人の話を聞かないきらいがある。means that he has a tendency not to listen to other people.
2. Common pitfalls and similar expressions
- Distinction from dislike expressed by 嫌い
人の話を聞くのが嫌いだexpresses a dislike of listening to others.人の話を聞かないきらいがあるevaluates a tendency shown in the person's behavior.