Meaning and Usage
The verb 跳ねる (はねる) primarily means "to jump" or "to leap," often describing a living being or object moving upward or outward suddenly. It is commonly used for animals, children, or objects that bounce or spring.
Common Contexts
- Physical jumping or bouncing: Children or animals jumping energetically.
- Splashing or scattering: Liquids or small particles like mud or water droplets being splashed or scattered by movement.
- Sudden movement: Fish or insects leaping out of water or off surfaces.
Collocations and Patterns
- 泥を跳ねる: to splash mud (often used when a vehicle or person causes mud to fly)
- 水面から跳ねる: to leap out of the water (used for fish or frogs)
- 元気に跳ねる: to jump energetically (used for children or animals)
Register and Nuance
跳ねる is a neutral verb suitable for everyday conversation and writing. It can describe both literal jumping and figurative splashing or scattering. It is not formal or honorific.
Common Learner Pitfall
Do not confuse 跳ねる with 跳ぶ (とぶ), which also means "to jump" but often implies a longer or more deliberate jump or flight. 跳ねる often suggests a quick, small, or bouncing motion, or splashing, rather than a large leap.