Meaning and Usage
The verb 断える (たえる) means "to cease," "to become extinct," or "to stop." It is often used in formal or literary contexts to describe something that ends or disappears completely, such as traditions, efforts, or natural phenomena.
Nuance and Register
This word carries a somewhat formal and literary tone, so it is less common in everyday casual conversation. It often appears in written Japanese, such as essays, reports, or historical descriptions.
Common Collocations and Patterns
- 断えることがない: "never cease" — used to emphasize continuity without interruption.
- 断えることがある: "sometimes cease" — indicates occasional stopping or extinction.
- 伝統が断える: "tradition ceases" — used to describe cultural or historical discontinuation.
Usage Tips
Learners sometimes confuse 断える with 途絶える (とだえる), which also means "to cease" or "to stop." While both can mean "to stop," 断える often implies a more complete or permanent cessation, especially in formal contexts. Pay attention to the nuance and register when choosing between these verbs.
Using 断える correctly will help you express the idea of something stopping or disappearing in a refined and precise way.