借りる

Pattern visualization

Examples

1. 図書館で本を借りました。▶ —
   I borrowed a book from the library.
2. お手洗いを借りてもいいですか。▶ —
   May I use the restroom (lit. borrow)?

Collocations

Mnemonic

Kariru (借りる) is an ichidan verb — "to borrow," partner of kasu. A distinctive usage: Japanese asks "otearai o kariru" (lit. "borrow the restroom") where Korean says "sseolge-yo" (use) and English "use the bathroom." Japanese applies kariru to temporary use of others' space, time, or opportunity — a courteous "let me borrow briefly" code. Otokoshi o sukoshi karite mo ii desu ka (may I borrow some of your time?), chikara o kariru (borrow strength = seek help), chie o kariru (borrow wisdom = ask advice). Sino-Japanese cluster: shakkin (debt), shakuya (rental house), shakuyou (loan / borrowing).

Quick check

1. Polite Japanese way to ask for the restroom?

   • "Otearai o karite mo ii desu ka" — borrow restroom
   • "Otearai o tsukatte mo ii desu ka" — possible but less idiomatic
   • "Toire ni iku" — direct
   • "Toire ni hairu" — awkward