嫌いになる

kirai ni naru
verb phraseIntermediate💡 to grow to dislike
informal

To start feeling dislike or aversion toward someone or something that previously did not evoke such feelings.

最初は彼のことが好きだったけど、最近嫌いになった。

I liked him at first, but I’ve grown to dislike him recently.

この仕事は嫌いになった。

I’ve started to dislike this job.

💡

Used when a neutral or positive feeling turns negative over time. Often implies a gradual change rather than an immediate reaction.

Related Phrases

好きが嫌いになるphrase
love turning into hate

💡Pro Tip

Gradual vs. Sudden Dislike

Use 「嫌いになる」 to emphasize a gradual change in feelings. For sudden dislikes, consider 「嫌悪を感じる」 (to feel aversion) or 「嫌気が差す」 (to feel disgusted).

Gold Rule

Context Matters

This phrase is best used when describing a shift in feelings over time. It is not suitable for expressing immediate dislikes or reactions.

📖Word Origin

The phrase combines the adjective 「嫌い」(kirai, dislike) with the verb 「なる」(naru, to become). 「嫌い」 derives from the verb 「嫌う」(kirau, to hate) and the adjectival suffix 「-い」. The construction 「嫌いになる」 emerged as a natural way to express the transition from neutrality or liking to dislike in modern Japanese.

📝Usage Notes

This phrase is commonly used in personal relationships, work environments, or when discussing preferences. It implies a shift in feelings rather than an immediate reaction. Avoid using it for sudden dislikes unless the context clearly suggests a gradual change.

Word Breakdown

嫌い
dislike
adjective
+
なる
to become
verb
和英辞典