Translation guide
Describes something that is spread out, trailing behind, or not keeping up with a group. In Japanese, this concept is expressed through various verbs, adjectives, and descriptive phrases depending on whether you're talking about people, objects, plants, or abstract things.
To describe someone or something that is moving more slowly than the rest and is left behind.
General verb meaning 'to be late' or 'to fall behind'. Commonly used for people who are straggling.
He always straggles behind the group.
Idiomatic phrase meaning 'to fall behind' or 'to be outdistanced'. Slightly more formal.
I fell behind the other runners.
Means 'to get separated from one's group' or 'to stray'. Implies losing contact with the group.
I got separated from my friends on the mountain trail.
To describe things that are not neatly arranged, but are scattered or extending irregularly.
Na-adjective meaning 'sparse', 'scattered', or 'straggling'. Used for things like hair, houses, or attendance.
His beard is straggling.
Means 'disordered' or 'messy'. Can describe straggling hair or lines.
I fixed my straggling hair.
Past tense of 散らばる, meaning 'scattered about'. Suitable for objects spread out irregularly.
Toys are straggling around the room.
To describe plants that are spreading out in a messy, uncontrolled manner.
To describe things that happen sporadically or not in a steady stream.
ツタが壁に蔓延っている。
Ivy is straggling over the wall.