1.
to shrink; to atrophy; to wither
Physical shrinking, often used in medical or scientific contexts.
筋肉を使わないと萎縮してしまう。
If you don't use your muscles, they will atrophy.
2.
to feel intimidated; to cower; to lose confidence
Psychological shrinking, becoming timid or inhibited.
上司の前で萎縮してしまい、意見が言えなかった。
I felt intimidated in front of my boss and couldn't voice my opinion.
厳しい批判を受けて、チームの雰囲気が萎縮した。
After receiving harsh criticism, the team's atmosphere became inhibited.
萎縮する is an intransitive する verb (自動詞) with both physical and psychological meanings.
TWO MAIN USES:
1. Physical: Atrophy or shrinking of organs, muscles, or tissue
2. Psychological: Becoming timid, losing confidence due to pressure
COMMON PATTERNS:
- 筋肉が萎縮する - muscles atrophy
- プレッシャーで萎縮する - to feel intimidated by pressure
- 萎縮せずに発言する - to speak up without being intimidated