Meaning
〜げ is used to describe how something appears or looks based on outward signs, meaning "appears to be" or "seems like." It attaches to words describing emotions, conditions, or states to indicate that someone's appearance suggests that feeling or state. After adding げ, the resulting word functions as a な-adjective.
Formation
| Part of speech | Formation |
|---|---|
| 动词(ます形) | げ |
| い形容词(…い) | げ |
| な形容词 | げ |
Examples
-
山下さんが何か言いたげに近づいて来た。
Yamashita approached as if wanting to say something. -
その子どもは得意げな顔で、数学コンテストでもらった賞状を友達に見せた。
That child showed the certificate he received from the math competition to his friends with a proud expression. -
あの男は寂しげに1人で居酒屋でお酒を飲んでいる。
That man was drinking alone at an izakaya with a lonely air about him.
Summary
- Add げ to emotion/state words to express outward appearance: want to say → 言いたげ (appearing to want to say)
- The resulting word becomes a な-adjective and can be used with な or に depending on context
- Used specifically for inferring inner states or feelings from someone's external appearance or demeanor