Meaning and Usage
The verb 腫れる (はれる) primarily means "to swell" due to inflammation or injury. It is commonly used to describe body parts that become enlarged or puffy, often from insect bites, infections, or trauma.
Common Contexts
You will often hear 腫れる in medical or everyday contexts when talking about injuries, allergic reactions, or post-surgical conditions. It usually implies visible swelling accompanied by discomfort or pain.
Collocations and Patterns
- 腫れる + body part (e.g., 足が腫れる): describing which part is swollen.
- 目が腫れる: a very common phrase meaning "eyes are swollen," often from crying or lack of sleep.
- 傷口が腫れる: swelling at a wound site.
Register and Nuance
腫れる is neutral and used in both casual and formal contexts. It is a straightforward descriptive verb without honorific or humble forms.
Common Mistakes
Learners sometimes confuse 腫れる with むくむ, which also means "to swell." However, 腫れる usually refers to swelling caused by inflammation or injury, while むくむ often refers to fluid retention or puffiness without inflammation. Use 腫れる when the swelling is due to a medical or injury-related cause.