に堪える

to endure; to withstand; worthy of (emotionally); deeply affecting

N1

Meaning

to endure; to withstand; worthy of (emotionally); deeply affecting

Formation

Verb (dictionary form) + に堪える
Noun + に堪える

Explanation

に堪える has two main uses:

① Ability to endure or withstand

It expresses that something is strong enough to endure physical, mental, or emotional pressure.

② Worthy of emotional response (formal usage)

It is also used to say that something is deeply moving or impactful enough to deserve appreciation, criticism, or praise.

This grammar is formal and literary, and mainly used in written Japanese, reviews, critiques, and serious commentary.