1.
to become familiar with, to become friendly with, to feel close to
To develop familiarity, affection, or comfort with something or someone over time. Often used with activities, nature, culture, or people to express a warm sense of closeness.
自然に親しむ。
I become familiar with nature.
子供のころから音楽に親しんできた。
I've been familiar with music since childhood.
多くの人に親しまれている祭りが、今年も開催される。
The festival beloved by many people will be held again this year.
USAGE:
親しむ means to feel close to or enjoy something over time. The passive form 親しまれる (to be loved/enjoyed by many) is extremely common. Do not confuse with 親しい (adjective: close, intimate, friendly), though they share the same root.
COMMON COLLOCATIONS:
- 自然に親しむ: to enjoy/appreciate nature
- 文化に親しむ: to become familiar with culture
- 親しまれる: to be loved/enjoyed (by many)
- 広く親しまれている: widely beloved
- 読書に親しむ: to enjoy reading