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倒れる
たおれる
taoreru
The core image of this verb is a transition from a vertical position to a horizontal one. This applies to physical objects, human health, and organizational stability.
When referring to physical objects, it describes something that was standing upright falling over. This is distinct from "転ぶ" (korobu), which specifically refers to a person losing their balance and falling (tripping or slipping). While a person can "倒れる" (collapse), it usually implies a sudden loss of consciousness or a total failure of strength, rather than a simple trip.
In the context of health, it describes collapsing due to illness, extreme fatigue, or shock. It often implies a serious state where the person is unable to stand or move, frequently leading to hospitalization or bed rest.
When used for companies or organizations, it is a common colloquial expression for going bankrupt (倒産する). It evokes the image of a large structure collapsing under its own weight or external pressure, signaling a complete financial failure.
Meanings
To fall over from an upright position.
木が倒れる。
A tree falls.
To fall down due to illness, exhaustion, or fainting.
人が倒れる。
A person collapses.
To fail financially or go out of business.
会社が倒れる。
A company goes bankrupt.
Grammar & Conjugations
Ichidan Verb (一段動詞)
taoremasu
taoremashita
taoremasen
taoremasen deshita
Examples
Onomatopoeia & Mimetic Words
どさっと
Falling with a heavy thud, or collapsing heavily due to extreme fatigue.
疲れすぎて、ベッドにどさっと倒れた。
I was so tired that I collapsed heavily onto the bed.
バタンと
Falling over with a loud, flat sound (like a door or a sign).
強い風で看板がバタンと倒れた。
The sign fell over with a bang due to the strong wind.
ぱたっと
Falling over suddenly or abruptly, often losing consciousness or stopping instantly.
彼は突然、ぱたっと倒れてしまった。
He suddenly collapsed and fell flat.