Meaning and Usage
"逆らう" (さからう) means to go against, oppose, or disobey something or someone. It often implies resistance to authority, rules, or natural forces.
Common Contexts
It is frequently used when talking about opposing parents, rules, or physical forces like wind or current. The word carries a nuance of deliberate opposition or resistance.
Collocations and Patterns
- 親に逆らう: to go against one's parents (often about opinions or wishes)
- 規則に逆らう: to disobey rules (implies consequences)
- 風に逆らう: to go against the wind (literal physical opposition)
Register and Nuance
This verb is neutral to slightly formal and can be used in both spoken and written Japanese. It often conveys a sense of conflict or challenge.
Common Learner Mistake
Learners sometimes confuse 逆らう with simple refusal or denial. However, 逆らう specifically implies active opposition or resistance, not just saying no.