Meaning and Usage
The verb くたびれる primarily means "to get tired" or "to become exhausted," often after physical or mental effort. It can also mean "to wear out" or "to become shabby," especially when referring to objects like clothes or shoes.
Common Contexts
- Physical or mental fatigue: Used when someone feels worn out after work, exercise, or a long day.
- Wear and tear: Describes items that have become old or damaged from use.
Collocations and Patterns
- くたびれるほど働く: to work until exhausted
- くたびれた服: worn-out clothes
- くたびれて帰る: to come home exhausted
Register and Nuance
This verb is casual and common in everyday conversation. It conveys a natural sense of tiredness or weariness without being overly formal or literary.
Common Mistakes
Learners sometimes confuse くたびれる with 疲れる (つかれる), which also means "to get tired." While 疲れる is more general, くたびれる often implies a deeper or more prolonged exhaustion or the state of being worn out. Also, くたびれる can be used for objects, unlike 疲れる.