To bud or sprout (literally); when a plant's buds appear and begin to grow.
春になると庭の桜の枝に小さな芽が芽生える。
In spring, small buds begin to sprout on the cherry branches in the garden.
植えたばかりの苗から新しい葉が芽生えた。
New leaves have sprouted from the recently planted seedling.
春雨のおかげで畑にたくさんの芽が芽生えている。
Thanks to the spring rain, many buds are sprouting in the field.
To arise or begin to grow (figuratively), as in feelings, interest, or ideas starting to develop.
留学の経験が海外への関心を芽生えさせた。
Studying abroad sparked an interest in going overseas.
議論の中で新しいアイデアが芽生え始めた。
New ideas began to emerge during the discussion.
二人の間に友情が芽生えた瞬間を私は見ていた。
I saw the moment when friendship began to blossom between the two.