びるTake on a quality
This suffix forms an established verb meaning that someone or something takes on or displays a particular quality. It often describes a natural change in appearance or character rather than deliberate behavior.
How it works
The completed verb describes a quality becoming noticeable in appearance, atmosphere, or character. Common established members of this small family include 大人びる, 古びる, and 田舎びる. Once formed, each behaves like an ichidan verb.
Established forms in context
十年使い続けた木の机は、すっかり古びた。
The wooden desk, used continuously for ten years, had become thoroughly worn.
AnalyzeThe change results naturally from age and use.
背が伸びて、少年の顔つきは急に大人びてきた。
As he grew taller, the boy's features suddenly began to look more mature.
AnalyzeNothing here suggests that the boy is intentionally acting mature.
駅を離れると、田舎びた風景が広がっていた。
Beyond the station, a rustic landscape stretched out.
AnalyzeNatural change versus deliberate posing
びる can describe a quality acquired through age, growth, environment, or wear, without any intention. By contrast, ぶる often suggests deliberately acting or presenting oneself as something, sometimes with a critical tone.
彼は専門家ぶって難しい言葉ばかり使う。
He acts like an expert and uses nothing but difficult words.
AnalyzeThis neighboring form describes a deliberate pose, not a naturally acquired quality.
More examples
この革は使い込むほど自然に古びる。
This leather ages naturally the more it is used.
Analyze彼女はまだ若いが、話し方は落ち着いていて大人びている。
She is still young, but her calm way of speaking makes her seem mature.
Analyze海辺の小さな町には、少し田舎びた雰囲気があった。
The small seaside town had a slightly rustic atmosphere.
Analyze雨風にさらされ、門の木材はすっかり古びていた。
Exposed to wind and rain, the wood of the gate had become thoroughly weathered.
Analyze卒業式で見た弟は、急に大人びたように感じられた。
My younger brother suddenly seemed more mature when I saw him at the graduation ceremony.
Analyze中心街を離れるにつれて、景色は次第に田舎びていく。
As you move away from the city center, the scenery gradually becomes more rustic.
Analyze