Meaning and Usage
The verb 太る (ふとる) means "to gain weight" or "to become fat." It is commonly used in everyday conversation to describe an increase in body weight, often due to eating habits or lack of exercise.
Common Contexts
People often use 太る when talking about changes in their own or others' body weight, especially after holidays, changes in lifestyle, or seasons like winter.
Collocations and Patterns
- 太る + しまう: expresses regret or unintended weight gain (e.g., 太ってしまった).
- 太りやすい: describes a tendency to gain weight easily.
- 食べて太る: gaining weight as a result of eating.
Register and Nuance
太る is neutral and informal, suitable for casual conversations. It can sometimes carry a slightly negative nuance depending on context, so be mindful when using it about others.
Common Mistakes
Learners sometimes confuse 太る with 痩せる (やせる), which means "to lose weight." Remember, 太る is gaining weight, 痩せる is losing weight.