Meaning and Usage
The verb 凌ぐ (しのぐ) primarily means "to surpass" or "to outdo" someone or something, often in terms of skill, quality, or performance. It can also mean "to endure" or "to get through" difficult conditions such as heat, hardship, or pain.
Common Contexts
- Surpassing others: Used when comparing abilities, qualities, or achievements, e.g., "他の選手を凌ぐ" (to surpass other players).
- Enduring hardship: Used to express enduring or coping with difficult situations, e.g., "暑さを凌ぐ" (to endure the heat).
Collocations and Patterns
- 他を凌ぐ (たをしのぐ): to surpass others
- 困難を凌ぐ (こんなんをしのぐ): to overcome difficulties
- 暑さを凌ぐ (あつさをしのぐ): to endure the heat
Register and Nuance
凌ぐ is a formal and somewhat literary verb, often found in written Japanese or formal speech rather than casual conversation. It conveys a strong sense of surpassing or enduring beyond normal limits.
Common Mistakes
Learners sometimes confuse 凌ぐ with 超える (こえる), which also means "to surpass." 凌ぐ often implies a stronger sense of overcoming or enduring, sometimes with difficulty, while 超える is more neutral and general. Use 凌ぐ when emphasizing endurance or a notable surpassing.