Meaning and Usage
"老いる" (おいる) is a formal or literary verb meaning "to age" or "to grow old." It is often used to describe the natural process of aging in people or animals. Unlike the more common verb "年を取る" (としをとる), which is casual and frequently used in daily conversation, "老いる" carries a slightly more serious or reflective tone.
Common Collocations
- 老いるものだ: expresses the inevitability of aging.
- 体が老いる: refers to the body aging or deteriorating.
- 若い頃より老いる: comparing appearance or condition to a younger time.
Usage Notes
"老いる" is often found in written language, literature, or formal speech rather than casual conversation. Learners sometimes confuse it with "老ける" (ふける), which also means "to age" but often emphasizes looking older or aging prematurely. "老いる" focuses more on the natural, inevitable process of growing old.
Register and Politeness
This verb is neutral in politeness but formal in style. It is less common in everyday speech but useful for essays, news, or reflective statements about aging.