～びる (〜biru)
Explanation
A suffix meaning “to appear/to become ~,” often used with certain adjectives or nouns.
Formation
Adjective/Noun + びる (to form a verb)
Detailed Explanation
The suffix ～びる is used to form verbs meaning 'to become like' or 'to seem like.' Typical examples include 大人びる (to become or behave like an adult), 古びる (to become old or look old), 田舎びる (to become rustic/countrified).
Examples
彼女は年齢より大人びている。
Kanojo wa nenrei yori otona bite iru.
She seems older than her actual age.
この建物はすっかり古びている。
Kono tatemono wa sukkari furubite iru.
This building has become completely old and worn.
彼は都会育ちなのに、少し田舎びている話し方をする。
Kare wa tokai sodachi na noni, sukoshi inakabite iru hanashikata o suru.
Even though he grew up in the city, he speaks in a somewhat country-like way.
子供が急に大人びる瞬間を見ると驚く。
Kodomo ga kyuu ni otona biru shunkan o miru to odoroku.
It’s surprising when you see a child suddenly act grown-up.
Grammar content sourced from hanabira.org.