Meaning and Usage
The verb 生える (はえる) primarily means "to grow" or "to sprout," often used for plants, hair, teeth, or anything that naturally emerges or grows from a surface. It is an intransitive verb, so the subject itself grows or appears without a direct object.
Common Contexts
You will frequently see 生える used when talking about plants growing (雑草が生える), teeth coming in or changing (歯が生え変わる), or mold and fungi appearing (カビが生える). It can also be used for hair growth.
Collocations and Patterns
- 雑草が生える: weeds grow, common in gardening or outdoor contexts.
- 歯が生え変わる: teeth are replaced, used in child development.
- カビが生える: mold grows, often in damp or neglected places.
Register and Nuance
This verb is neutral and commonly used in everyday conversation and writing. It is not formal or honorific.
Common Mistakes
Learners sometimes confuse 生える with 生やす (はやす), which is the transitive form meaning "to grow (something)" or "to let something grow." Remember, 生える is intransitive (something grows by itself), while 生やす means to cause something to grow.