Translation guide
The English phrase "grow old" can refer to the natural process of aging, reaching old age, or the emotional feeling of becoming older. In Japanese, the most common and natural way to express this is with the verb 年を取る (としをとる). However, depending on context, other expressions like 老いる (おいる), 年を重ねる (としをかさねる), or 歳を食う (としをくう) may be more appropriate. This guide helps you choose the right expression for your intended meaning.
Expressing the natural process of getting older, without strong positive or negative connotations.
The most common and neutral way to say 'grow old' or 'get older'. It can be used for people, and sometimes for animals or things metaphorically.
As you grow old, your body becomes weaker.
He is energetic even though he has grown old.
Same meaning as 年を取る, but uses the kanji 歳 which specifically refers to age in years. Slightly more formal or written style.
As I grew older, my hobbies changed.
A somewhat literary or formal verb meaning 'to grow old' or 'to age'. Often implies the decline associated with old age. Can be used for people, animals, or things.
Even as he grew old, his passion did not wane.
Expressing the idea of growing older in a positive, graceful, or neutral way, emphasizing the accumulation of years and experience.
Literally 'to pile up years'. A positive or neutral expression for growing older, often implying maturity, experience, or grace. Common in polite or written contexts.
As you grow older, the depth of life increases.
She is beautiful even as she grows older.
Same as 年を重ねる but with the kanji 歳. Slightly more formal or written.
Expressing the negative aspects of aging, such as physical or mental decline, or becoming elderly in a less favorable sense.
To age noticeably, to become old and decrepit. Often used when someone suddenly looks or acts much older, or has let themselves go.
He suddenly grew old after retiring.
As above, but here emphasizing the decline. Can be used in phrases like 老いぼれる (to become senile).
A rough, colloquial way to say 'grow old' or 'get older'. Literally 'to eat years'. Can sound crude or self-deprecating. Often used by men.
Describing how objects, buildings, or abstract things 'grow old' or show signs of age.
To look old, to become worn or antiquated. Used for objects, buildings, etc. that show their age.
This house has grown old, but it has character.
Literally 'to pass years'. Used for things that have existed for a long time, like buildings, trees, or traditions. Neutral or positive.
To become decrepit, dilapidated, or obsolete due to age. Used for infrastructure, equipment, etc. Technical/formal.
Expressing the romantic or lifelong commitment of aging alongside a partner.
The most direct and natural way to say 'grow old together'. Can be used in casual or formal contexts.
I want to grow old with you.
A more poetic or literary way to say 'grow old together'. Often used in vows or romantic writing.
Let's grow old together and enjoy life together.
年を取る is the most common and neutral. 老いる is more literary and often implies decline. 年を重ねる is positive/graceful, emphasizing accumulated experience. Choose based on the nuance you want to convey.
老ける means 'to look old' or 'to age prematurely', not the process of growing old. Saying 老けたね (You look old) can be very rude.
I don't want to grow old.
She has grown old gracefully.
The building has grown old and needs renovation.
As I grow older, I realize the importance of health.
老いては子に従え。
When you grow old, obey your children. (proverb)
俺も歳を食ったなあ。
I've gotten old, huh.
A shrine that has grown old has a unique atmosphere.
The bridge that has grown old needs repair.