Advanced Compound Verbs

Advanced Compound Verbs

Compound verbs (複合動詞) combine two verbs to create nuanced meanings that single verbs cannot express. Mastering them is essential at C1.

思い込む combines 思う (think) + 込む (into), meaning "to be firmly convinced" or "to assume without evidence."

彼は自分が正しいと思い込んでいる。

He is convinced that he is right.

見落とす combines 見る (see) + 落とす (drop), meaning "to overlook" or "to miss something."

重要なポイントを見落とした。

I overlooked an important point.

取り組む combines 取る (take) + 組む (grapple), meaning "to tackle" or "to work on seriously."

新しいプロジェクトに取り組む。

To tackle a new project.

The second verb in compounds often carries the core semantic modification: 込む adds intensity or internalization, 落とす implies missing, 合わせる suggests mutual action, and 上げる indicates completion or launching. Understanding these patterns helps you decode unfamiliar compounds.