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黙る
damaru
to stay silent
彼は怒って黙った。
He stayed silent out of anger.
informal
To remain silent or stop speaking, often due to anger, embarrassment, or refusal to speak.
彼女は質問に黙って答えなかった。
She remained silent and didn't answer the question.
彼は怒って黙って部屋を出て行った。
He left the room in silence, angry.
Often used to describe someone who refuses to speak or is forced into silence.
neutral
To be quiet or silent in a general sense, without necessarily implying refusal or anger.
静かにして黙ってください。
Please be quiet and stay silent.
彼は黙って聞いていた。
He listened in silence.
Can be used in more neutral contexts where silence is expected or requested.
Related Phrases
Pro Tip
Context Matters
The meaning of '黙る' can vary depending on the context. In emotional or confrontational situations, it often implies refusal or anger, while in neutral contexts, it simply means to be silent.
Gold Rule
Polite vs. Rude Silence
In Japanese culture, silence can be polite or rude depending on the situation. '黙る' can be used to describe both polite silence and rude silence, so pay attention to the context.
Word Origin
From the verb '黙る' (damaru), derived from the noun '黙' (damaru), meaning 'silence' or 'quiet.'
Usage Notes
The verb '黙る' is often used to describe someone who refuses to speak or is forced into silence, especially in emotional or confrontational situations. It can also be used in more neutral contexts where silence is expected or requested.
Word Breakdown
黙
silence
rootる
verb ending
suffix和英辞典