Meaning and Usage
"当たる" is a versatile verb commonly used to express something physically hitting or striking a target, as well as figuratively meaning to be correct or successful, such as winning a lottery or making an accurate prediction.
Common Collocations
- 当たる + に (e.g., 宝くじに当たる): to win a lottery or prize.
- 予想が当たる: a prediction comes true.
- ボールが当たる: a ball hits something.
Nuances and Register
This verb is neutral in formality and can be used in both casual and formal contexts. It often implies a direct impact or success. When used for predictions or guesses, it suggests accuracy or correctness.
Common Mistakes
Learners sometimes confuse 当たる with 当てる (あてる), which is the transitive form meaning "to hit" or "to guess correctly." Remember 当たる is intransitive, focusing on the event happening to the subject.
Summary
Use 当たる when you want to say something hits or strikes, or when something (like a guess or lottery) turns out to be correct or successful. It is a very common verb in everyday conversation and media.