化ける
bakeru
Description
「化ける」は、あるものが別のすがたに変わることです。特に、キツネやたぬきが人の形になる話でよく使います。
"化ける" means that something changes into another form. It is often used in stories where foxes or raccoons take human shape.
また、人や物が大きく良くなったときにも「化けた」と言います。
Also, when a person or thing greatly improves, we say it "化けた".
Meanings
化けるbakeru
to transform, disguise oneself into another form
キツネが人間に化ける話が好きです。
I like stories about foxes transforming into humans.
化けるbakeru
to change dramatically for the better
あの選手は今年で一気に化けた。
That player suddenly improved a lot this year.
化けるbakeru
to disguise oneself as someone else
泥棒が警官に化けて逃げた。
The thief disguised himself as a police officer and escaped.
Related words
Notes
- Etymology
from 化 (change/transform); 化ける is intransitive, 化かす is its transitive pair (to bewitch).
- Nuance
sense 'improve dramatically' is casual, often used for athletes, stocks, or new talent.
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