Japanese · Emotions & Feelings

怒る

okoru

To be angry / To get angry

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Definition

To feel or express strong annoyance or displeasure. In Japanese culture, expressing anger directly is often considered socially inappropriate and people may use indirect language instead.

Example

遅刻したので上司に怒られました。

I was scolded by my boss because I was late.

Etymology

怒る (okoru) has historical roots in classical Japanese, where it originally indicated wrath or ferocity. The term has remained consistent in conveying anger through various eras.

How & Where It’s Used

怒る is primarily found in informal, conversational contexts and is widely used to express emotions. It is universally understood throughout Japan.

Watch “To be angry / To get angry” pronunciation on YouTube
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