Meaning and Usage
"劣る" (おとる) means "to be inferior to" or "to fall behind" in quality, ability, or status. It is often used to compare two or more things or people, indicating that one is of lower rank or quality than the other.
Common Contexts
This verb is frequently used in academic, product quality, and personal ability comparisons. For example, when discussing grades, product quality, or physical strength, "劣る" clearly expresses inferiority.
Collocations and Patterns
- 劣る + に/と: used to compare with someone or something (e.g., 他の選手に劣る - inferior to other players)
- 品質が劣る: quality is inferior
- 成績が劣る: grades are inferior
Register and Nuance
"劣る" is neutral and can be used in both formal and informal contexts. It is a straightforward way to express inferiority without being overly harsh.
Common Mistakes
Learners sometimes confuse "劣る" with "負ける" (to lose). While "負ける" is used mainly in competitions or games, "劣る" is more general and used for qualities or abilities. Use "劣る" when emphasizing comparative inferiority rather than defeat in a contest.