Meaning and Usage
"憧れ" (あこがれ) expresses a deep emotional longing or admiration for something or someone. It often implies a positive, idealized desire to attain or experience what is admired.
Common Contexts
It is frequently used to describe aspirations such as career goals, lifestyle dreams, or admiration for a person. For example, "憧れの職業" (dream job) or "憧れの人" (someone you admire).
Collocations and Patterns
- 憧れの人: a person one admires or looks up to.
- 憧れを抱く: to harbor a yearning or aspiration.
- 憧れの的: the object of admiration.
Register and Nuance
"憧れ" is generally neutral and can be used in both formal and informal contexts. It conveys a heartfelt, often idealistic feeling rather than a casual liking.
Common Learner Pitfall
Learners sometimes confuse "憧れ" with "好き" (like) or "欲しい" (want). "憧れ" implies a deeper, often emotional or aspirational longing, not just preference or desire for possession.