恋する

こいする

to fall in love with, to love

JLPT N1

Character Breakdown

Meaning and Usage

"恋する" is a verb that means "to fall in love with" or "to love" someone romantically. It is often used in a poetic or literary context rather than casual conversation. The verb emphasizes the emotional state of being in love.

Common Collocations

  • 恋する人 (こいするひと): the person one loves
  • 恋する気持ち (こいするきもち): feelings of love
  • 恋する相手 (こいするあいて): the partner one is in love with

Register and Nuance

This verb is somewhat formal and poetic, often found in songs, literature, or romantic expressions. In everyday conversation, people more commonly use verbs like 好きになる or simply 好き to express liking or loving someone.

Common Mistakes

Learners sometimes confuse 恋する with 好きになる. While 好きになる can mean "to start liking" someone or something, 恋する specifically refers to romantic love and is more intense and emotional. Avoid using 恋する in casual contexts where a lighter expression is more appropriate.

Example Sentences

かのじょははじめてこいしたあいてにてがみをかいた。

She wrote a letter to the person she fell in love with for the first time.

こいするきもちはときにひとをつよくする。

The feeling of being in love sometimes makes people stronger.

かれはこいするあいてのためにうたをつくった。

He composed a song for the person he loves.