Meaning and Usage
The verb 逃げる (にげる) means "to escape" or "to run away." It is commonly used when someone or something physically leaves a place to avoid danger, capture, or an unpleasant situation.
Common Contexts
- Physical escape from danger or pursuit, e.g., criminals escaping police.
- Avoiding problems or responsibilities, often used metaphorically.
Collocations and Patterns
- 逃げる + から (e.g., 問題から逃げる): to run away from something (problems, danger).
- 逃げるために + verb (e.g., 責任を逃げるために): to do something in order to escape/avoid.
Register and Nuance
逃げる is neutral in politeness but often implies a negative judgment when used about avoiding responsibilities or problems. It can be used in both casual and formal contexts but is more common in everyday conversation.
Common Mistakes
Learners sometimes confuse 逃げる with 脱げる (ぬげる, to come off, as in clothes or shoes). Remember 逃げる is about escaping or running away, not about removing clothing.