Meaning and Usage
The verb 物語る (ものがたる) means "to tell" or "to indicate" and is often used in contexts where something non-verbal or indirect conveys a story or message. It can describe how objects, expressions, or situations reveal information or emotions without explicit explanation.
Common Contexts
You will frequently see 物語る used with things like photos, expressions, or novels that "tell" a story or "indicate" deeper meaning. It is a slightly literary or formal verb, so it fits well in written language or formal speech rather than casual conversation.
Collocations and Patterns
- 物語る＋こと／もの: to tell a story or indicate something
- ～を物語る: to reveal or indicate a fact or feeling
- 物語る表情: an expression that tells a story
Usage Tips
When using 物語る, the subject often is something that "speaks" indirectly, like a photo or a novel, rather than a person directly telling a story. Avoid using it for casual spoken storytelling; instead, use 話す or 語る for that.
Common Mistake
Learners sometimes confuse 物語る with 語る (かたる), which also means "to tell" or "to talk about." 物語る often implies something non-verbal or symbolic telling a story, while 語る is more about a person narrating or explaining something.