Meaning and Usage
The verb "凝らす" (こらす) primarily means to concentrate or devote one's attention or effort to something. It can also mean to peer intently or strain one's eyes to see something clearly. This word is often used in contexts where careful thought, effort, or attention is applied.
Common Contexts
- Concentrating mental effort: e.g., "頭を凝らす" (to concentrate one's mind).
- Applying ingenuity or elaborate effort: often used with "工夫を凝らす" meaning to devise or elaborate something carefully.
- Straining eyes to see: used when someone peers intently, especially in dim light or to discern something difficult to see.
Collocations and Patterns
- 頭を凝らす: to concentrate one's mind deeply.
- 工夫を凝らす: to devise or elaborate with ingenuity.
- 目を凝らす: to peer intently or strain one's eyes.
Register and Nuance
"凝らす" is a somewhat literary or formal verb, often found in written language or formal speech rather than casual conversation. It conveys a strong sense of focused effort or attention.
Common Learner Mistake
Learners sometimes confuse "凝らす" with "凝る" (こる), which means to become stiff or to be passionate about something. Remember that "凝らす" is a transitive verb meaning to apply or concentrate, while "凝る" is intransitive and describes a state.