哀れ

あわれ
Alternative writings: 憐れ, 憫れ
JLPT:N3
Frequency:
1

Pity or sorrow; a feeling of compassion or pathos toward someone or something.

Noun

Examples

彼の境遇を知って哀れに思った。

Knowing his circumstances, I felt pity for him.

その映画には深い哀れが描かれている。

That film depicts a profound sense of pathos.

哀れを誘う光景だった。

It was a scene that evoked pity.

2

Pitiable; miserable—used adjectivally (e.g., 'a pitiable person').

Na-Adjective

Examples

哀れな孤児が支援を待っている。

The pitiable orphan is waiting for help.

あの哀れな姿を見ると胸が痛む。

Seeing that pitiful sight hurts my heart.

哀れな犬を保護した。

I rescued a poor, pitiable dog.

3

An interjection (often archaic) expressing pity, lament, or deep emotion—like 'alas' or 'ah, what sorrow'.

Interjection

Examples

あはれ、若き命が散った。

Alas, a young life was lost.

あはれ、昔日の栄華はいずこ。

Alas, where has the glory of former days gone?

Word Relationships

Synonyms