1.
to underestimate, to look down on, to scorn
To regard someone or something as less capable or important than they actually are, often leading to carelessness or mistakes.
相手を侮る。
To underestimate one's opponent.
自然の力を侮ってはいけない。
You must not underestimate the power of nature.
侮れない実力の持ち主だ。
They're someone whose ability should not be underestimated.
The negative potential form 侮れない is a common set phrase meaning "not to be taken lightly."
TRANSITIVITY: 他動詞 (transitive). Pattern: Xを侮る.
USAGE:
Often used in the negative form 侮れない (not to be underestimated), which functions as a compliment meaning "formidable" or "not to be taken lightly." The positive form 侮る carries a warning or critical tone.
COMMON COLLOCATIONS:
- 相手を侮る: to underestimate an opponent
- 敵を侮る: to underestimate the enemy
- 侮れない存在: a force not to be underestimated
- 侮りがたい: formidable, not to be scorned
COMMON PATTERN:
〜を侮ってはいけない / 〜を侮るな: "Don't underestimate ~" — a frequent warning pattern.
KANJI NOTE:
The kanji 侮る also appears in 侮辱 (insult, contempt), which is the on'yomi compound.