Japanese meaning of 強くなりたくば喰らえ！

Reading: AI

つよくなりたくばくらえ！ (Tsuyoku naritakuba kurae!)

English Translation:

If you want strength, devour!

Scene & Cultural Context

Scene Context:

Kaneki is urged dramatically to embrace his ghoul nature by metaphorically "devouring" others, symbolizing acceptance of his new identity and power.

Cultural Context:

In Japanese storytelling, embracing darker, violent means to achieve personal growth or survival symbolizes deep internal struggle and identity transformation. Popularized as a dark, intense catchphrase often referenced or parodied.

カネキが喰種（グール）としての本性を受け入れ、「喰らう」ことで強さを得るよう劇的に促される場面。
日本の物語では、成長や生存のために暴力的または暗い手段を受け入れることが、内面的葛藤やアイデンティティの変化を象徴する。このセリフも暗く劇的な表現としてよく引用やパロディされる。

Grammar & Learning Points

Grammar Point

•「〜たくば」(takuba) = formal, archaic conditional ("if you want"), dramatic and intense
•「喰らえ」(kurae) = imperative form meaning "devour," symbolizing aggressive acceptance or consumption for strength

Trap for English Speakers

English speakers may interpret "devour" literally rather than metaphorically. It symbolizes aggressive acceptance and internal transformation for power.

Example

Basic Example

ジムでトレーニング中、プロテインを嫌がる友達に冗談で、
「強くなりたくば喰らえ！」

Jokingly urging a friend at the gym who dislikes protein shakes,
'If you wanna get stronger, eat!'

Applied Example

健康を気にする人に、野菜を勧めながら冗談っぽく、
「健康になりたくば食え！」

Playfully encouraging someone health-conscious to eat vegetables,
'If you wanna get healthy, eat!'