溺れる

The core image of this word is being overwhelmed by a force larger than oneself, leading to a loss of control or self-awareness. In a physical sense, it refers to the struggle and failure to breathe while submerged in liquid. In a metaphorical sense, it describes a state where a person is so consumed by pleasure, desire, or emotion that they lose their judgment or neglect their responsibilities.

When used metaphorically, "oboreru" carries a strong negative connotation of excess and potential ruin. It is distinct from "fukeru" (to be absorbed in), which can be a neutral or positive intellectual pursuit, and "hamaru" (to be hooked on), which is a casual, modern expression for hobbies or obsessions. "Oboreru" implies a deeper, more dangerous level of addiction or intoxication.

Commonly, the particle "ni" (に) is used to indicate the medium or the object of obsession (e.g., 水に, 愛に).