Meaning and Usage
"悩む" means to be troubled or agonize over something, often involving emotional or mental distress. It is commonly used when someone is facing a difficult decision or problem.
Common Contexts
People often use "悩む" when discussing personal issues like career choices, relationships, or life decisions. It expresses a deeper level of concern than just thinking or wondering.
Collocations and Patterns
- 悩む + について (about): Used to specify the topic causing trouble, e.g., 将来の仕事について悩む (to agonize about future work).
- 悩んだ末に (after agonizing): Indicates a decision made after much worry.
- 悩みを相談する (to consult about worries): Common phrase to talk about sharing troubles.
Register and Nuance
"悩む" is neutral and can be used in both casual and formal contexts. It conveys sincere emotional struggle rather than superficial concerns.
Common Mistakes
Learners sometimes confuse "悩む" with simpler verbs like "考える" (to think). Remember, "悩む" implies emotional difficulty or distress, not just thinking.