～びる

〜biru

JLPT N1 Chapter 136: As if, seeming like, putting it on, 3 of 8

Formation

Adjective/Noun + びる (to form a verb)

A suffix meaning “to appear/to become ~,” often used with certain adjectives or nouns.

When to use

びる: take on the look of (大人びる, 古びる).

Explanation

The suffix ～びる is used to form verbs meaning 'to become like' or 'to seem like.' Typical examples include 大人びる (to become or behave like an adult), 古びる (to become old or look old), 田舎びる (to become rustic/countrified).

Example sentences

彼女かのじょは年齢ねんれいより大人おとなびている。

She seems older than her actual age.

Kanojo wa nenrei yori otona bite iru.
この建物たてものはすっかり古ふるびている。

This building has become completely old and worn.

Kono tatemono wa sukkari furubite iru.
彼かれは都会とかい育そだちなのに、少すこし田舎いなかびている話はなし方かたをする。

Even though he grew up in the city, he speaks in a somewhat country-like way.

Kare wa tokai sodachi na noni, sukoshi inakabite iru hanashikata o suru.
子供こどもが急きゅうに大人おとなびる瞬間しゅんかんを見みると驚おどろく。

It’s surprising when you see a child suddenly act grown-up.

Kodomo ga kyuu ni otona biru shunkan o miru to odoroku.

Resemblance (Like / As If)

Compare when to use each