Learning Japanese often involves understanding the nuanced differences between words that may seem similar at first glance. A great example of this is the distinction between the verbs 走る (hashiru) and 追う (ou). Both can be translated to English in ways that involve movement, but their meanings and usage are quite distinct. In this article, we will delve into the differences between 走る and 追う, providing you with a comprehensive understanding of how to use these verbs correctly.
走る (hashiru) – To Run
The verb 走る (hashiru) fundamentally means “to run.” It is a straightforward verb used to describe the act of running, moving quickly on foot. Here are some key points to understand about 走る:
1. **Basic Usage**: 走る is used to describe the physical act of running.
2. **Context**: This verb can be used in a variety of contexts, such as sports, daily activities, or even metaphoric expressions.
3. **Conjugation**: It is a Godan verb, which means it follows a specific pattern of conjugation in various tenses.
### Examples of 走る in Sentences
1. 子どもたちは公園で走っている。
(Kodomo-tachi wa kōen de hashitte iru.)
The children are running in the park.
2. 彼は毎朝5キロ走る。
(Kare wa maiasa go-kilo hashiru.)
He runs 5 kilometers every morning.
3. 電車に遅れそうだったので、急いで駅まで走った。
(Densha ni okuresō datta node, isoide eki made hashitta.)
I was about to miss the train, so I ran to the station.
In these examples, 走る clearly indicates the act of running. It is used in contexts that emphasize physical movement from one place to another.
Metaphoric Uses of 走る
While 走る is primarily used to describe physical running, it can also be used metaphorically. For example:
1. **Time Flies**: 時が走る (Toki ga hashiru) can be used to express that time flies.
2. **Running Thoughts**: 頭の中でアイデアが走り回っている (Atama no naka de aidea ga hashirimawatte iru) means that ideas are running around in one’s mind.
In these metaphoric uses, the concept of quick movement is still present, but it’s applied to non-physical subjects like time and thoughts.
追う (ou) – To Chase
The verb 追う (ou) means “to chase” or “to pursue.” Unlike 走る, which is about the act of running itself, 追う involves following or pursuing someone or something with the intention of catching up to it. Here are some key points about 追う:
1. **Basic Usage**: 追う is used to describe the act of chasing or pursuing.
2. **Context**: This verb often appears in contexts involving pursuit, whether literal or figurative.
3. **Conjugation**: It is also a Godan verb, and it follows similar conjugation patterns as 走る.
### Examples of 追う in Sentences
1. 警察は泥棒を追っている。
(Keisatsu wa dorobō o otte iru.)
The police are chasing the thief.
2. 彼女は夢を追い続けている。
(Kanojo wa yume o oi tsuzukete iru.)
She continues to chase her dreams.
3. 猫がネズミを追いかけている。
(Neko ga nezumi o oikakete iru.)
The cat is chasing the mouse.
In these examples, 追う indicates the act of pursuing or chasing something. It can be a physical chase, such as a police officer chasing a thief, or a more figurative pursuit, like chasing dreams.
Metaphoric Uses of 追う
Similar to 走る, 追う can also be used in metaphorical contexts. For example:
1. **Chasing Dreams**: 夢を追う (Yume o ou) is a common phrase meaning to chase or pursue one’s dreams.
2. **Career Pursuit**: 彼はキャリアを追っている (Kare wa kyaria o otte iru) means he is pursuing his career.
These metaphorical uses maintain the idea of pursuit but apply it to abstract goals rather than physical objects or people.
Comparing 走る and 追う
Now that we’ve explored the individual meanings and uses of 走る and 追う, let’s compare them directly to highlight their differences and some common scenarios where one might be used over the other.
### Physical Activity
– **走る**: Focuses on the act of running itself.
– Example: 彼は速く走ることができる。 (Kare wa hayaku hashiru koto ga dekiru.) – He can run fast.
– **追う**: Focuses on the act of chasing someone or something.
– Example: 彼は泥棒を追った。 (Kare wa dorobō o otta.) – He chased the thief.
### Metaphorical Uses
– **走る**: Can be used to describe the quick passage of time or rapid movement of thoughts.
– Example: アイデアが頭の中で走り回っている。 (Aidea ga atama no naka de hashirimawatte iru.) – Ideas are running around in my head.
– **追う**: Can be used to describe the pursuit of goals, dreams, or careers.
– Example: 彼女は成功を追い求めている。 (Kanojo wa seikō o oi motomete iru.) – She is in pursuit of success.
### Emotional or Intentional Context
– **走る**: Generally lacks an intentional pursuit or goal, focusing instead on the action.
– Example: 雨の中を走った。 (Ame no naka o hashitta.) – I ran in the rain.
– **追う**: Implies a goal or target that one is trying to reach or catch.
– Example: 警察は犯人を追っていた。 (Keisatsu wa hannin o otte ita.) – The police were chasing the criminal.
Common Pitfalls and Tips
### Misuse of 走る and 追う
One common mistake learners make is using 走る when they mean to imply a chase or pursuit. For example:
– Incorrect: *私は夢を走っている。 (Watashi wa yume o hashitte iru.)*
– This sentence is incorrect because 夢を走る (yume o hashiru) does not make sense in Japanese.
– Correct: 私は夢を追っている。 (Watashi wa yume o otte iru.) – I am chasing my dreams.
### Practice Makes Perfect
To master the use of 走る and 追う, try to incorporate them into your daily practice. Create sentences using each verb in both literal and metaphorical contexts. Here are a few exercises to get you started:
1. **Literal Sentences**:
– Write a sentence describing your morning run.
– Write a sentence about a cat chasing a mouse.
2. **Metaphorical Sentences**:
– Write a sentence about pursuing your career goals.
– Write a sentence about how fast time flies.
### Contextual Learning
Understanding the context is crucial for using these verbs correctly. Pay attention to how native speakers use 走る and 追う in different scenarios. Watching Japanese movies, reading books, or listening to podcasts can provide you with rich contextual examples.
Conclusion
Understanding the differences between 走る (hashiru) and 追う (ou) is vital for using these verbs correctly in Japanese. While both involve movement, 走る focuses on the act of running, and 追う focuses on the act of chasing or pursuing. By paying attention to the context and practicing both literal and metaphorical uses, you can master these verbs and enhance your fluency in Japanese.
Remember, language learning is a journey. Keep practicing, and don’t be afraid to make mistakes. Over time, with consistent effort, you will find yourself becoming more comfortable with these nuances, bringing you one step closer to mastering the Japanese language. Happy learning!
