がる

JLPT:N1
Frequency:
1

A verbal suffix attached to an adjective stem indicating that someone (usually a third person) shows signs of a feeling or state; it becomes a godan verb (e.g., 寒がる).

SuffixU-Verb

Examples

子供は寒がってコートを着たがらなかった。

The child felt cold and didn't want to put on a coat.

彼女は恥ずかしがって人前で話せなかった。

She was shy and couldn't speak in front of people.

猫は水を怖がることが多い。

Cats often show fear of water.

あの子は新しい食べ物を警戒して嫌がる。

That child is wary of new foods and refuses them.

2

A suffix meaning 'to behave as if' or 'to pretend to be' (attaching to adjective stems or sometimes nouns), indicating an outward appearance rather than true feeling.

SuffixU-Verb

Examples

彼は強がっているが、本当は不安があるようだ。

He is putting on a brave face, but he actually seems anxious.

得意がる態度はあまり好かれない。

Acting as if you're proud is not very well liked.

知らないふりをして平気がるのはやめなさい。

Stop pretending not to know and acting unconcerned.