Meaning and Usage
The verb こじれる is used to describe situations or conditions that become complicated, tangled, or worsen unexpectedly. It often refers to problems, relationships, negotiations, or illnesses that deteriorate beyond the initial state.
Common Contexts
You will frequently see こじれる in contexts involving conflicts, negotiations, or health issues. For example, a negotiation might こじれる if parties fail to agree, or a minor illness might こじれる into a more serious condition.
Collocations and Patterns
- 交渉がこじれる: negotiations get complicated or break down
- 病気がこじれる: illness worsens or develops complications
- 関係がこじれる: relationships become strained or complicated
Register and Nuance
This verb is commonly used in both formal and informal contexts but tends to appear more in written or formal spoken Japanese when describing worsening situations. It implies that the complication or worsening is somewhat unexpected or troublesome.
Common Mistakes
Learners sometimes confuse こじれる with simple worsening verbs like 悪くなる. However, こじれる emphasizes complexity and entanglement, not just deterioration. Use it when the situation becomes tangled or difficult to resolve, not just when it gets worse.