Meaning and Usage
"教わる" (おそわる) means "to be taught" or "to learn from someone." It emphasizes the receiving side of teaching, often implying a personal or direct instruction from a teacher, mentor, or senior.
Common Contexts
This verb is frequently used when talking about learning skills, knowledge, or methods from someone more experienced. It often appears with people who are in a teaching or guiding role, such as teachers, seniors, or parents.
Collocations and Patterns
- 〜に教わる: to be taught by someone (e.g., 先生に教わる)
- 〜から教わる: to learn from someone (e.g., 先輩から教わる)
- Skill or subject + を教わる: to be taught a specific skill or subject (e.g., 数学を教わる)
Register and Nuance
"教わる" is polite and neutral, suitable for both casual and formal contexts. It highlights the learner's perspective rather than the teacher's action.
Common Mistake
Learners sometimes confuse "教わる" with "教える" (to teach). Remember, "教わる" focuses on the learner receiving instruction, while "教える" focuses on the person giving instruction.