〜がる

〜がる is a verb form expressing show signs of wanting. Understanding this conjugation pattern is essential for expanding what you can express in Japanese. Verb forms are the backbone of Japanese grammar — each form unlocks new ways to describe actions, states, and intentions.

This is an upper-intermediate pattern common in natural conversation and media like news, novels, and dramas.

When to Use#

• When describing someone else's visible desires or emotions
• When observing outward signs of another person's feelings

When NOT to Use#

• When a different nuance than "show signs of wanting" is intended — check the related patterns below

Example Sentences#

• 妹は美術館に行きたがっています。 — My sister seems to want to go to the art museum.
• 弟はカメラを買いたがっています。 — My brother seems to want to buy a camera.
• 友人はライブに行きたがっています。 — My friend seems to want to go to a live concert.

Practice#

Try reading these sentences aloud, then check the translation and vocabulary:

Common Mistakes#

1. Wrong verb group conjugation — Group 1 and Group 2 verbs conjugate differently. Common pitfall: treating Group 1 verbs ending in る (like 帰る) as Group 2 verbs.

Related Patterns#

• 〜めく (to seem like / show signs of) — Next step