目覚める
mezameruTo wake up from sleep.
目覚めると、外はもう明るくなっていた。
When I woke up, it was already bright outside.
Commonly used to describe waking from sleep, but can also refer to becoming aware of something.
To become aware of or realize something.
彼はようやくその事実に目覚めた。
He finally realized the truth.
This figurative usage is less common but still valid.
Collocations
Synonyms
Antonyms
Related Phrases
💡Pro Tip
Literal vs. Figurative Use
While 目覚める primarily means 'to wake up', it can also be used figuratively to mean 'to become aware of something'. Pay attention to context to distinguish between these meanings.
⚡Gold Rule
Common Collocation
The phrase 目覚めてから (after waking up) is a common collocation. It is often used to describe actions taken immediately after waking up.
📖Word Origin
From 目 (me, 'eye') + 覚める (sameru, 'to wake up'). The verb 覚める is derived from the classical verb 覚む (samu), meaning 'to wake up' or 'to become aware'.
📝Usage Notes
While 起きる is more commonly used for waking up, 目覚める is often used in more literary or poetic contexts. It can also be used figuratively to mean 'to become aware of something'.