Meaning and Usage
The verb 外れる (はずれる) primarily means "to come off," "to be disconnected," or "to miss the mark." It is often used when something physically detaches, such as a button or a part of machinery. It can also describe missing a scheduled time or deviating from expectations.
Common Contexts
- Physical detachment: ボタンが外れる (button comes off), 部品が外れる (a part detaches).
- Missing or failing to meet a target: 約束の時間に外れる (miss an appointment), 予想から外れる (deviate from expectations).
Collocations and Patterns
- ボタンが外れる: button comes off.
- 約束の時間に外れる: miss an appointment time.
- 予想から外れる: deviate from expectations.
Nuances and Tips
When using 外れる, the nuance often implies an unintended or accidental detachment or failure. It is commonly used in everyday conversation and is neutral in politeness. Be careful not to confuse 外れる with 外す (はずす), which means "to remove" intentionally. 外れる is more about something coming off or missing unintentionally.