Back to list

WORD DETAIL

寂しがる

さびしがる

N3feel lonely · show loneliness

Examples

弟は母が出かけるとすぐ寂しがる。

一人暮らしの祖父が寂しがっていたので電話をした。

Included kanji

Study notes

1. Origins, structure, and basic meaning

  • Structure: 寂しがる (さびしがる) describes another person outwardly showing loneliness.
  • Basic usage: A younger brother quickly becomes lonely when his mother leaves; a grandfather seemed lonely, prompting a call.

2. Common pitfalls and similar expressions

  • Habitual display of loneliness and observed past state
    • Dictionary form gives a recurring reaction; 寂しがっていた an observed continuing state. A speaker's own direct feeling normally uses 寂しい.

Menu

Language
Display theme

Sign In

Sign in to continue.