Structure: N1 という N2
Used to introduce a specific name (N1) for a general category (N2). Think of it as 'A thing called B'.
Usage Notes Simply place the specific name before という, and the general category after it.
💡 Pro Tip If you forget the category word, use もの (thing) or ひと (person). Also, you can use this to define words: 'Xという意味です' = 'It means X.'
Examples これは「すみません」という言葉です。
Kore wa 'sumimasen' to iu kotoba desu.
This is the word called 'sumimasen'.
東京という町に住んでいます。
Tōkyō to iu machi ni sunde imasu.
I live in a city called Tokyo.
Structure: V-たばかり (Past Tense Verb + Bakari)
Used when an action just finished or feels very recent to the speaker. It's subjective—if it feels 'fresh' to you, you can use it.
Usage NotesChange verb to た-form, then add ばかりです.
💡 Pro Tip Don't use this for things that happened years ago. For life experiences, use V-たことがあります. Also, たばかり can sound a bit proud ('I just did it!'), so be careful in humble situations.
Examples さっき、お風呂に入ったばかりです。
Sakki, ofuro ni haitta bakari desu.
I just took a bath a moment ago.
日本に来たばかりで、まだ言葉がわかりません。
Nihon ni kita bakari de, mada kotoba ga wakarimasen.
I just came to Japan, so I still don't understand the language.
Structure: V-て form + いました
Describes what you were doing at a specific time in the past, or a habit you used to have.
Usage NotesChange verb to て-form, then add いました.
💡 Pro Tip Use this to 'set the scene' in stories. Also, if someone asks 'Why didn't you answer the phone?', reply with 寝ていました (I was sleeping). It's the natural excuse tense!
Examples 昨日の午後、ずっと勉強していました。
Kinō no gogo, zutto benkyō shite imashita.
I was studying all afternoon yesterday.
小さいころ、よく姉とケンカしていました。
Chīsai koro, yoku ane to kenka shite imashita.
When I was little, I used to fight with my older sister a lot.
Structure: Pronouns (Discourse)
Refers back to a thing (それ) or a place (そこ) that was just mentioned in the conversation. This avoids repeating nouns.
Usage Notes Use それ for objects/ideas, そこ for locations. Don't repeat the noun—swap it with それ or そこ.
💡 Pro Tip In conversation, それ is like 'it' in English. Also, それで？ means 'And then?'—a great way to ask someone to continue their story. そうですか？ + それで？ = perfect listening response set!
Examples 「美味しいレストランを知っていますか？」「はい、それに先週行きました。」
'Oishii resutoran o shitte imasu ka?' 'Hai, sore ni senshū ikimashita.'
'Do you know a good restaurant?' 'Yes, I went to it last week.'
京都に行きました。そこはとても歴史がある町です。
Kyōto ni ikimashita. Soko wa totemo rekishi ga aru machi desu.
I went to Kyoto. That place is a city with a lot of history.
Structure: Sentence Connectors
Connectors used to glue ideas together: ～て (and/so), ～から (so/because), and ～けど (but/although).
Usage Notes –て: connect verbs or adjectives. –から: reason first, result second. –けど: contrast OR polite lead-in.
💡 Pro Tip けど is very versatile! You can end a sentence with けど to soften it: 質問があるんですけど… (I have a question...). It sounds polite, not rude. Also, から is STRONG—use ので for softer reasons.
Examples このスマホは軽くて、使いやすいです。
Kono sumaho wa karukute, tsukaiyasui desu.
This smartphone is light and easy to use.
雨が降ったから、試合は中止になりました。
Ame ga futta kara, shiai wa chūshi ni narimashita.
Because it rained, the game was canceled.
日本語は難しいけど、面白いです。
Nihongo wa muzukashii kedo, omoshiroi desu.
Japanese is difficult, but it's interesting.
Structure: [Person]は[Body part/feature]が[Adjective]です
Used to describe a person's physical characteristics. N1 is the person, N2 is a body part or feature, followed by an adjective.
Usage Notes Place the topic (person) first + は, then the specific feature + が, then the adjective. The adjective agrees with the feature, not the person.
💡 Pro Tip This pattern is very common for describing appearance (hair, eyes, height, build). Don't put は after the feature — always が.
Examples江口さんは、髪が短いです。
Eguchi-san wa, kami ga mijikai desu.
Eguchi-san has short hair.
山田さんは、目が大きいです。
Yamada-san wa, me ga ōkii desu.
Yamada-san has big eyes.
Structure: V-ている + 人
Used to describe a person based on what they are doing or wearing. The plain form V-ている modifies 人 (person).
Usage Notes Change the verb to て-form, add いる, then attach 人. This makes a noun phrase: 'the person who is ...ing'.
💡 Pro Tip You can also use past tense: V-ていた人 = 'the person who was doing ...'. This is great for talking about what someone was wearing when you met them.
Examples チインさんは、帽子をかぶっている人です。
Naing-san wa, bōshi o kabutteiru hito desu.
Naing-san is the person who is wearing a hat.
走っている人は、田中さんです。
Hashitteiru hito wa, Tanaka-san desu.
The person who is running is Tanaka-san.
Structure: Sentence + よ/ね
よ is used to convey new information to the listener. ね is used to seek confirmation or express shared feeling.
Usage Notes Simply add よ or ね to the end of a complete sentence. よ asserts; ね softens and invites agreement.
💡 Pro Tip ね makes you sound friendly and is used often in daily conversation. よ can sound strong — use it when you're sure the listener doesn't know something.
Examplesあの人ですね。
Ano hito desu ne.
Is that the person? (seeking confirmation)
あの人は日本人ですよ。
Ano hito wa nihonjin desu yo.
That person is Japanese, you know. (informing)
Structure: S1し、S2
Used to give reasons or grounds for an opinion or impression. Can connect multiple reasons.
Usage Notes Connect two or more sentences with し. Each clause can be in plain or polite form, but keep them consistent.
💡 Pro Tip し implies there are other reasons you're not mentioning. It's softer than から and great for casual lists. Use it to sound natural and fluent.
Examples 三船敏郎は、演技が上手だし、本当にかっこいいです。
Mifune Toshirō wa, engi ga jōzu da shi, hontō ni kakkōii desu.
Mifune Toshirō is good at acting and very cool.
このレストランは安いし、おいしいし、よく行きます。
Kono resutoran wa yasui shi, oishii shi, yoku ikimasu.
This restaurant is cheap, tasty, and I go often.
Structure: S1 + ので + S2
Used to give a reason politely or softly. Connects to plain verbs, polite verbs, Nな, and ナ-adjectives.
Usage Notes Express personal reasons or explain why something cannot be done. More polite than から.
💡 Pro Tip Use ので to soften the reason when rejecting offers or explaining circumstances.
Examples 今日は自転車で来たので、飲めないんです。
Kyō wa jitensha de kita node, nomenain desu.
I cannot drink because I came by bicycle today.
ベジタリアンなので、肉とか魚はだめなんです。
Bejitarian na node, niku toka sakana wa dame nan desu.
Because I am a vegetarian, I do not eat meat or fish.
この店は有名なので、いつも混んでいます。
Kono mise wa yūmei na node, itsumo kondeimasu.
Because this restaurant is popular, it is always crowded.
Structure: Statement + よね
Used to confirm something the speaker thinks is true.
Usage Notes Used when you assume something and want to check it with the listener.
💡 Pro Tip Often used for confirming facts you are pretty sure about.
Examples おすし、わさび、入ってますよね。
Osushi, wasabi, haittemasu yo ne.
This sushi has wasabi in it, doesn't it?
Structure: N + で
Used to indicate choice or preference, especially at restaurants.
Usage Notes Add お願いします / だいじょうぶです / いいです to communicate choice politely.
💡 Pro TipCan also be used alone in casual contexts.
Examplesテーブルでお願いします。
Tēburu de onegaishimasu.
I will take table seating.
普通でだいじょうぶです。
Futsū de daijōbu desu.
I am fine with a normal portion.
じゃあ、それで。
Jā, sore de.
Okay. I will take that.
Structure: 前提 + のは + N + です
Used to introduce N as new information. The precondition comes before ～のは.
Usage Notes Commonly used to answer questions about popular or recommended items.
💡 Pro Tip Precede のは with context or explanation to make it clear what N refers to.
Examples 人気があるのは、お刺身定食です。
Ninki ga aru no wa, osashimi teishoku desu.
A popular order is the sashimi set meal.
この店でおいしいのは、親子丼ですよ。
Kono mise de oishii no wa, oyako-don desu yo.
This restaurant has tasty oyako-don (rice bowl with chicken and eggs).
よくみんなが注文するのは、ミックスフライ定食です。
Yoku minna ga chūmon suru no wa, mikkusu furai teishoku desu.
Many people order the set meal with assorted fried food.
Structure: N なら、～
Used to respond by referring to a keyword mentioned by the other person. It means 'If it’s N...' or 'As for N...'.
Usage Notes N is usually the word the other person said. It shows you are answering based on that specific condition or topic.
💡 Pro Tip Very common in conversation. It sounds natural when giving recommendations or suggestions.
Examples この近くなら、「平兵衛」がおすすめです。
Kono chikaku nara, Heibē ga osusume desu.
If it's nearby, I recommend Heibe.
安い店なら、「田山食堂」かな。
Yasui mise nara, Tayama Shokudō kana.
If you want a cheap place, maybe Tayama Shokudo.
Structure: V-て、～ / V-ないで、～
Used to explain the method or manner of doing something, especially instructions like how to eat or drink.
Usage Notes V-て is used when doing the next action in that state. V-ないで is used when doing the next action without doing the first action.
💡 Pro Tip V-ないで is made from the nai-form + で. Example: つけない → つけないで.
Examplesつゆにつけて食べて下さい。
Tsuyu ni tsukete tabete kudasai.
Please dip it in the sauce and eat.
しょうゆをつけないで食べて下さい。
Shōyu o tsukenai de tabete kudasai.
Please eat it without adding soy sauce.
Structure: V-ちゃだめです
Used to say something must not be done. Casual spoken form of V-てはだめです.
Usage Notes For verbs ending in 〜て → change to 〜ちゃ. For verbs ending in 〜で → change to 〜じゃ.
💡 Pro Tip More casual than てはだめです. Often used in conversation. For stronger tone, add よ.
Examples そんなにしょうゆをかけちゃだめですよ。
Sonna ni shōyu o kakecha dame desu yo.
Don’t pour that much soy sauce.
古いから、食べちゃだめです。
Furui kara, tabecha dame desu.
It’s old, so don’t eat it.
Structure: V-てから、～
Used to clearly show the order of actions. First do V, then do the next action.
Usage Notes Attach てから to the verb’s te-form. It emphasizes that the second action happens after the first one is completed.
💡 Pro Tip Very important in cooking instructions and daily routines.
Examples 野菜を食べてから、うどんを入れます。
Yasai o tabete kara, udon o iremasu.
Eat the vegetables first, then add the udon.
よく混ぜてから、焼きます。
Yoku mazete kara, yakimasu.
Mix well first, then cook it.
Structure: S1 が、S2
Used to connect two contrasting statements. Similar to けど but more formal.
Usage Notes Attach が to the first sentence. Often used in writing or formal speech.
💡 Pro Tip けど is common in casual speech. が sounds more formal and polite.
Examples お店はきれいですが、昼は混んでいます。
Omise wa kirei desu ga, hiru wa kondeimasu.
The restaurant is clean, but it is crowded at lunch.
料理はおいしかったですが、少し高かったです。
Ryōri wa oishikatta desu ga, sukoshi takakatta desu.
The food was delicious, but it was a little expensive.
Structure: V-(られ)ます / V-れる
Used to express that someone can or is able to do something.
Usage Notes Formation rules: 1. Group 1: Change final -u to -e + る (e.g., 飲む → 飲める, 作る → 作れる, 泳ぐ → 泳げる). 2. Group 2: Replace -る with -られる (e.g., 食べる → 食べられる, 見る → 見られる). *Casual: 食べれる, 見れる. 3. Group 3: する → できる, 来る → 来られる.
💡 Pro Tip Particle Change: In a normal sentence (N を V), the particle changes to (N が V-potential). Example: 日本語を話します → 日本語が話せます.
Examplesカニが食べられます。
Kani ga taberaremasu.
I can eat crab.
京都ではお寺がたくさん見られます。
Kyoto de wa otera ga takusan mirareru.
In Kyoto, you can see many temples.
日本語で仕事ができます。
Nihongo de shigoto ga dekimasu.
I can work in Japanese.
Structure: S (plain form) + って聞きました / 言っていました
Used to report something you heard or something someone else said. In Bengali: শুনেছি / কেউ বলেছে.
Usage Notes This is the casual version of 'と言っていました'. It follows the plain form of the sentence.
💡 Pro Tip For Na-adjectives and Nouns, remember to include 'da' (e.g., きれいだ + って).
Examples京都はきれいだって聞きました。
Kyoto wa kirei da tte kikimashita.
I heard Kyoto is beautiful.
バスが便利だって言ってました。
Basu ga benri da tte ittemashita.
Someone said the bus is convenient.
Structure: Verb / Sentence + ところ
Used to describe a 'place where' a certain action or characteristic exists. In Bengali: এমন জায়গা যেখানে.
Usage Notes Place the describing verb or sentence directly before 'ところ'.
💡 Pro Tip Commonly used with the potential form: 遊べるところ (a place where you can play).
Examples ゆっくりできるところに行きたいです。
Yukkuri dekiru tokoro ni ikitai desu.
I want to go somewhere I can relax.
食べ物がおいしいところに行きましょう。
Tabemono ga oishii tokoro ni ikimashō.
Let's go to a place where the food is delicious.
Structure: Question word + Vたらいいですか
Used to ask 'What should I do?' or 'How should I do it?'. In Bengali: কী করলে ভালো হবে?
Usage Notes Combine an interrogative (how, where, what) with the Verb [Ta-form] + らいいですか.
💡 Pro Tip This is the standard way to ask for recommendations or directions.
Examplesどうやって行ったらいいですか。
Dō yatte ittara ii desu ka?
How should I go?
どこで買ったらいいですか。
Doko de kattara ii desu ka?
Where should I buy [it]?
Structure: Vたほうがいい / Vないほうがいい
Used to give a strong suggestion of what one should or should not do. In Bengali: করা ভালো / না করা ভালো.
Usage Notes 1. Should: Verb [Ta-form] + ほうがいい. 2. Shouldn't: Verb [Nai-form] + ほうがいい.
💡 Pro Tip This form is stronger than 'V-ru to ii' and suggests that something bad might happen if the advice is ignored.
Examples予約したほうがいいです。
Yoyaku shita hō ga ii desu.
You should make a reservation.
日曜日は行かないほうがいいですよ。
Nichiyōbi wa ikanai hō ga ii desu yo.
You shouldn't go on Sunday.
Structure: V-るつもりです / V-ないつもりです
Used to describe specific plans or intentions that you have already decided.
Usage Notes Attach to dictionary-form verbs for positive plans and nai-form verbs for negative plans.
💡 Pro Tip つもりです is more concrete than たいです. たい expresses desire, while つもり expresses a decided plan.
Examples 明日は中禅寺湖に行くつもりです。
Ashita wa Chūzenjiko ni iku tsumori desu.
I am planning to go to Lake Chuzenji tomorrow.
時間がないので、神社には行かないつもりです。
Jikan ga nai node, jinja ni wa ikanai tsumori desu.
I do not plan to go to the shrine because I don’t have time.
Structure: V-(られ)て、～ / V-(られ)なくて、～
Used to state something you were able or unable to do as a reason for your feelings.
Usage Notes Change the potential-form verb to te-form (できて) or negative なくて (できなくて), then add a feeling expression.
💡 Pro Tip Common feeling words: よかった, 楽しかった, 残念でした, 感動しました.
Examples いろいろなところに行けて、よかったです。
Iroiro na tokoro ni ikete, yokatta desu.
I’m glad I was able to go to many places.
ショーが見られなくて、残念でした。
Shō ga mirarena kute, zannen deshita.
I was disappointed that I couldn’t see the show.
Structure: S1 し、S2 し、～
Used to list multiple reasons before giving a conclusion or impression.
Usage Notes Attach し to plain-form verbs (including potential-form verbs). Often used before expressing feelings.
💡 Pro Tip Very common in travel reports. You can list two or more reasons.
Examples 海で泳げたし、船に乗れたし、楽しかったです。
Umi de oyogeta shi, fune ni noreta shi, tanoshikatta desu.
I could swim in the sea and ride a boat, so it was fun.
温泉にも入れたし、ゆっくりできたし、よかったです。
Onsen ni mo haireta shi, yukkuri dekita shi, yokatta desu.
I could use the hot springs and relax, so it was great.
Structure: V-ているとき / V-るとき / V-たとき
Used to describe when something happened in relation to another action.
Usage Notes V-ているとき → during the action. V-るとき → just before doing. V-たとき → just after doing.
💡 Pro Tip The verb form changes the timing meaning. Be careful with past vs non-past.
Examples 道を歩いているとき、リスを見ました。
Michi o aruite iru toki, risu o mimashita.
I saw a squirrel while walking.
家に着いたとき、とても疲れていました。
Ie ni tsuita toki, totemo tsukarete imashita.
When I arrived home, I was very tired.
Structure: Person と Number + 人で
Used to say who you did something with and the total number of people (including yourself).
Usage Notes Number + 人 includes yourself. Multiple people can be listed before と.
💡 Pro Tip2人で means 'the two of us' (including me).
Examples 友だちと2人で旅行に行きました。
Tomodachi to futari de ryokō ni ikimashita.
I went on a trip with a friend (the two of us).
今田さんとバイさんと3人で出かけます。
Imada-san to Bai-san to sannin de dekakemasu.
The three of us (Imada-san, Bai-san, and I) will go out.
Structure: V-たら / V-なかったら / N・A-だったら / N・A-じゃなかったら
Used to indicate a condition: what will happen if something occurs or has occurred.
Usage Notes ① Hypothetical condition (event may or may not occur). ② Fixed condition (event is assumed to occur).
💡 Pro Tip You can use もし at the beginning for hypothetical situations. Works with verbs, nouns, and adjectives.
Examples 雨が降ったら、盆踊りは日曜日にやるよ。
Ame ga futtara, Bon Odori wa nichiyōbi ni yaru yo.
If it rains, the Bon Odori dance will be held on Sunday.
盆踊りが終わったら、いっしょに居酒屋に行きましょう。
Bon Odori ga owattara, issho ni izakaya ni ikimashō.
After the Bon Odori dance, let's go to an izakaya together.
もし、わからないことがあったら、いつでも質問して下さい。
Moshi, wakaranai koto ga attara, itsu demo shitsumon shite kudasai.
If you have any questions, please ask me anytime.
Structure: Dictionary-form verb → Passive
Used to focus on the action/event itself rather than the person performing it. Often seen in announcements or formal notices.
Usage Notes 1st group verbs: -u → -a + れる, 2nd group verbs: -る → -られる, 3rd group irregular: する → される, 来る → こられる.
💡 Pro Tip In announcements, the subject is usually the event, not the person organizing it.
Examples 明日、18時から、海岸で花火大会が行われます。
Ashita, 18-ji kara, kaigan de hanabi taikai ga okonawaremasu.
The fireworks will be held on the seashore from 6 p.m. tomorrow.
月に1回、公園でフリーマーケットが開かれます。
Tsuki ni ikkai, kōen de furī māketto ga hirakaremasu.
A flea market is held at the park once a month.
Structure: Dictionary-form verb → Potential-form
Used to express what someone can do. Subject is the person performing the action.
Usage Notes Group 1: -u → -e + る, Group 2: -る → -られる (or -れる), Group 3 irregular: する → できる, 来る → 来れる / こられる
💡 Pro Tip Different from potential used for possibility in a location (covered in Lesson 5). This focuses on personal ability.
Examples 盆踊りは簡単だから、だれでも踊れますよ。
Bon Odori wa kantan da kara, dare demo odoremasu yo.
Bon Odori dance is easy, and anyone can dance along.
ギターが弾けます。
Gitā ga hikemasu.
I can play the guitar.
Structure: もう + Verb-ましたか？ / まだ + Verb-ていません
Used to ask and answer whether an action has already been completed or not yet completed. 'もう' indicates 'already' in positive sentences, while 'まだ' indicates 'not yet' in negative sentences.
Usage Notes For questions: もう + Verb-ましたか？ → 'Has it already happened?' For negative answers: まだ + Verb-ていません → 'Not yet.' For affirmative answers: はい、もう + Verb-ました → 'Yes, already.'
💡 Pro Tip まだ can also be used with positive verbs to mean 'still' (see next grammar point). Remember: もう+past = already done; もう+non-past = soon (もう行きます = I'll go soon). Don't mix them up!
Examples スピーチコンテストは、もう始まりましたか？<br>まだ始まってません。
Supiichi kontesuto wa, mō hajimarimashita ka?<br>Mada hajimatte masen.
Has the speech competition already started?<br>It hasn't started yet.
レポートはもう出しましたか？<br>いいえ、まだ書いていません。
Repōto wa mō dashimashita ka?<br>Iie, mada kaite imasen.
Have you already submitted the report?<br>No, I haven't written it yet.
Structure: まだ + Verb-ていますか？
Used to ask whether an action or state is still continuing.
Usage Notes Use まだ + Verb-ていますか？ to ask if something is still in progress. Answer with はい、まだ～ています (Yes, still) or いいえ、もう～ました (No, already finished).
💡 Pro Tip This まだ is the opposite of もう (already done). Compare: もう食べました = already ate; まだ食べています = still eating. Useful when checking event status or someone's ongoing action.
Examplesイベント、まだやってますか？
Ibento, mada yatte masu ka?
Is the event still going on?
田中さんはまだ会議をしていますか？
Tanaka-san wa mada kaigi o shite imasu ka?
Is Mr. Tanaka still in the meeting?
Structure: [Interrogative word] + (plain form) + か、わかりますか？
Used to ask someone if they know information about time, place, etc., especially when you're not sure if the person can answer.
Usage Notes Embed an interrogative question in plain form inside the larger sentence. The embedded question ends with か, then わかりますか／知っていますか etc. No question mark inside the embedded clause.
💡 Pro Tip This is an embedded question, not a direct quote. Word order stays as statement, not question inversion. Practice with どこにありますか → どこにあるかわかりますか？ (Do you know where it is?)
Examples 明日のフリーマケットは、何時からか、わかりますか？
Ashita no furīmāketto wa, nanji kara ka, wakarimasu ka?
Do you know what time tomorrow's flea market starts?
駅の前に新しいカフェができたけど、どこにあるか知っていますか？
Eki no mae ni atarashii kafe ga dekita kedo, doko ni aru ka shitte imasu ka?
A new cafe opened in front of the station — do you know where it is?
Structure: Sentence (plain form) + んですか？
Used to ask for a detailed explanation about something you don't know well. It shows you want to understand the situation or reason behind something.
Usage Notes Convert the sentence to plain form, then add んですか. For な-adjectives and nouns, add な before ん (e.g., 暇なんですか). In formal writing, のですか is used instead.
💡 Pro Tip んですか is conversational and seeks an explanation, not just a yes/no answer. You often use it when you notice something and want to know more (e.g., どうしたんですか？ = 'What happened?').
Examples成人の日は、何をするんですか？
Seijin no hi wa, nani o suru n desu ka?
What do people do on Coming-of-Age Day?
どうして日本に来たんですか？
Dōshite Nihon ni kita n desu ka?
Why did you come to Japan?
Structure: Noun + しか + Verb (negative form)
Emphasizes that the quantity or range is limited. Used with negative sentences to express that something is less than expected.
Usage Notes Attach しか directly to the noun (no particle needed after it). The verb must be negative. The meaning becomes 'only ~'.
💡 Pro Tip しか always carries a feeling of 'less than expected' – often disappointment or surprise. Compare with だけ (neutral). For zero quantity, use 何も～ない, 誰も～ない etc.
Examples 乗り物に３つしか乗れませんでした。
Norimono ni mittsu shika noremasen deshita.
I could only ride three rides.
お金が100円しかありません。
Okane ga hyaku en shika arimasen.
I only have 100 yen.
Structure: Noun + だけ
Indicates limitation or restriction. Unlike しか, it doesn't carry emotional connotation and simply states a fact.
Usage Notes Attach だけ directly to the noun. Verb is affirmative. Can also be used with verbs (V-るだけ) and adjectives.
💡 Pro Tip だけ is neutral – it simply says 'only' without implying judgment. Use しか～ない when you want to express that something is insufficient. Also, だけ can be combined with particles (だけは, だけに, etc.).
Examples 今年は、1日だけ実家に帰りました。
Kotoshi wa, ichinichi dake jikka ni kaerimashita.
I went back to my parents' house for only one day this year.
このアプリは無料で3日だけ使えます。
Kono apuri wa muryō de mikka dake tsukaemasu.
This app can be used for only three days for free.
Structure: Verb (た-form) + りして
Used to give examples of activities. Can list just one representative example followed by して.
Usage Notes Take the た-form of a verb and add り, then して. For multiple examples, use ～たり～たりする. The final verb is often する or an impression word.
💡 Pro Tip たりして at the end is casual and implies 'things like that' without listing everything. It softens the statement and is very common in casual conversation.
Examples 友だちといっしょに買い物をしたりして、楽しかったです。
Tomodachi to issho ni kaimono o shitari shite, tanoshikatta desu.
I had fun doing such things as shopping with friends.
公園で写真を撮ったりして、のんびりしました。
Kōen de shashin o toritari shite, nonbiri shimashita.
I relaxed, taking pictures at the park and such.
Structure: Verb (nai-stem) + なくちゃならない
Casual form of 'must do' or 'have to do'. Expresses obligation or necessity.
Usage Notes Remove ない from the negative form (e.g., 行かない) and add なくちゃならない. Also common: なくちゃいけない, なければならない.
💡 Pro Tip なくちゃ is a contraction of なくては. In very casual speech, you can drop ならない and just say ～なくちゃ (e.g., 行かなくちゃ = 'I gotta go').
Examples 甥や姪にお年玉をあげなくちゃならないし、大変でした。
Oi ya mei ni otoshidama o agenakucha naranai shi, taihen deshita.
I had to give New Year's money to my nephews and nieces, so it was tough.
明日、レポートを出さなくちゃならないんです。
Ashita, repōto o dasanakucha naranai n desu.
I have to submit a report tomorrow.
Structure: Verb (potential form) with ら omitted
Casual potential form where ら is dropped from られる. Commonly used in spoken Japanese.
Usage Notes For Group II verbs (ichidan), remove る and add れる instead of られる (e.g., 食べる → 食べれる). For Group I (godan), use the standard potential form (e.g., 行く → 行ける) – no change.
💡 Pro Tip This is called 'ら抜き言葉' and is very common in conversation, though considered non-standard in formal writing. You'll hear it all the time in daily life.
ExamplesDVDもたくさん見れました。
DVD mo takusan miremashita.
I was able to watch many DVDs.
スマホで写真が撮れます。
Sumaho de shashin ga toreます.
I can take photos with my smartphone.
Structure: Sentence (plain form) + 人が多い / 人もいる
Expresses what many people do (人が多い) or that some people do something (人もいる).
Usage Notes Place a verb or adjective in plain form before 人, then add が 多いです (many people) or も います (some people exist).
💡 Pro Tip This pattern is great for describing trends or common practices. 人が多い shows majority; 人もいる adds an extra group. You can also use 人も少なくない ('not a few people') for 'many people'.
Examples 春節は、田舎に帰る人が多いです。最近では、海外に旅行する人もいます。
Shunsetsu wa, inaka ni kaeru hito ga ooi desu. Saikin de wa, kaigai ni ryokō suru hito mo imasu.
Many people go back to their hometown for Lunar New Year. Recently, some people also travel abroad.
週末は公園でジョギングする人が多いです。
Shūmatsu wa kōen de jogingu suru hito ga ōi desu.
Many people jog in the park on weekends.
Structure: Verb (masu-stem) + ながら
Indicates two actions happening simultaneously.
Usage Notes Remove ます from the ます-form of the verb and add ながら. The main action is in the second clause. The subject must be the same for both actions.
💡 Pro Tip Cannot be used with state verbs (いる, ある) or negatives. It describes two intentional actions done at the same time by the same person. For 'while' with different subjects, use 間に or ているとき.
Examples 町を歩きながら、みんなで水をかけ合います。
Machi o arukinagara, minna de mizu o kakeaimasu.
While walking around the city, everyone splashes water on each other.
音楽を聞きながら、勉強します。
Ongaku o kikinagara, benkyō shimasu.
I study while listening to music.
Structure: Noun + によって
Indicates variation or dependence on something.
Usage Notes Attach によって to a noun. The meaning is 'depending on N'. It can also express means (by, via) or cause (due to).
💡 Pro Tip Very common in the pattern 人によって (depends on the person). In formal writing, により is used. For 'depending on the situation', use 場合によって.
Examples レバランは、年によって違います。
Rebaran wa, toshi ni yotte chigaimasu.
Lebaran differs depending on the year.
国によって習慣が違います。
Kuni ni yotte shūkan ga chigaimasu.
Customs differ depending on the country.
Structure: Verb バ-form + いいですか？ → 'What should I do?' (for general customs/rules)
Use this expression to ask for explanations about common practices, etiquette, or rules, rather than personal advice. The バ-form is the conditional form ending in ば.
Usage Notes Conjugate the verb to its バ-form (Group 1: change final -u to -e+ば; Group 2: replace -る with -れば; Group 3: する→すれば, くる→くれば) then add いいですか？
💡 Pro Tip Compare with ～たらいいですか？ which seeks personal advice (e.g., where to stay on a trip). ～ばいいですか？ is for asking about established customs, like what to wear to a wedding or funeral.
Examples お葬式には、何を持って行けばいいですか？
Osōshiki ni wa, nani o motte ikeba ii desu ka?
What should I bring to a funeral?
友だちの結婚式には、何を着て行けばいいですか？
Tomodachi no kekkonshiki ni wa, nani o kite ikeba ii desu ka?
What should I wear to a friend's wedding?
Structure: Verb テ-form + はいけません / ちゃだめ → 'You must not do / cannot do'
Used to describe something that is prohibited or not allowed. ～てはいけません is formal/polite, while ～ちゃだめ is a casual contraction often used among friends.
Usage Notes Attach はいけません or ちゃだめ to the テ-form of the verb. For ～ちゃだめ, the テ-form ending て is contracted to ちゃ (e.g., 見て → 見ちゃ).
💡 Pro Tip Use ～てはいけません for rules and official situations (e.g., 'No smoking'). Use ～ちゃだめ for light warnings to friends (e.g., 'Don't touch that, it'll break').
Examples 信号が赤のときは、横断歩道を渡ってはいけませんよ。
Shingō ga aka no toki wa, ōdan hodō o watatte wa ikemasen yo.
When the light is red, you cannot use the crosswalk.
バスの中では、話しちゃだめだよね。
Basu no naka dewa, hanashicha dame da yo ne.
You cannot talk on the bus.
Structure: Verb (negative stem) + なくちゃ (＋ ならない/いけない/dame implied) → 'I/you must do'
A casual way to express obligation, formed by omitting ならない from ～なくちゃならない. Used both for telling others and for talking about yourself.
Usage Notes Take the ない-form of the verb, remove ない, and add なくちゃ. Example: 片付けない → 片付けなくちゃ. No additional ending is needed in casual speech.
💡 Pro Tip This is one of the most common casual obligation forms. Others include ～なきゃ (from なければ). While ～なくちゃ is friendly, avoid it in formal writing or with superiors.
Examples食器は自分で片付けなくちゃ。
Shokki wa jibun de katazukenakucha.
You must put away your own dishes.
もうこんな時間！私、そろそろ帰らなくちゃ。
Mō konna jikan! Watashi, sorosoro kaeranakucha.
Wow, it's already this late? I have to get going soon.
Structure: Verb (dictionary form / ない-form) + ように → 'so that / in order to'
Used to express a purpose or goal. The part before ように describes the desired state resulting from the action. Verbs that express state (わかる, できる) or potential forms (座れる) are used; intentional action verbs (働く) are not allowed.
Usage Notes Attach ように to a dictionary-form or ない-form verb. The verb should express a state or ability, not a volitional act. Example: 座れるように (so that [someone] can sit).
💡 Pro Tip Cannot use intentional verbs like 働く. Use the potential form instead: 働けるように (so that I can work). This pattern is common in giving instructions so that anyone can understand.
Examples 次の人がすぐに席に座れるように、食器を片付けます。
Tsugi no hito ga sugu ni seki ni suwareru yō ni, shokki o katazukemasu.
People put away their dishes so the next person can sit right after.
だれでもわかるように、簡単な日本語で説明して下さい。
Daredemo wakaru yō ni, kantan na nihongo de setsumei shite kudasai.
Please use simple Japanese to explain so anyone can understand.
Structure: Receiver + は + Agent + に + Verb Passive-form → 'Receiver was verbed by Agent'
Used when the subject receives a direct action from another person (e.g., being warned, scolded, praised). The passive verb is formed by adding れる (Group 1) or られる (Group 2/3).
Usage Notes Group 1: change final -u to -a + れる (e.g., 言う→言われる). Group 2: replace -る with -られる (e.g., ほめる→ほめられる). Group 3: する→される, くる→こられる. The agent is marked with に.
💡 Pro Tip This passive focuses on the receiver's experience. Common verbs: 言われる (to be told), 呼ばれる (to be called), しかられる (to be scolded). Compare with Lesson 7's event-passive (e.g., コンサートが開かれる).
Examples 私は、店長に、「今度から気をつけて」と注意されました。
Watashi wa, tenchō ni, 'Kondo kara ki o tsukete' to chūi saremashita.
I was warned by the store manager, 'Be careful from now on.'
子どものとき、よく母にしかられました。
Kodomo no toki, yoku haha ni shikararemashita.
I was often scolded by my mother when I was a child.
Structure: Plain-form sentence + の？ → 'Is it that...? / Did you...?'
A casual way to ask for an explanation about a situation or reason. ～んですか？ in polite speech becomes ～の？ in plain style. Often used with どうしたの？ (What's the matter?).
Usage Notes For verbs and い-adjectives, add の directly. For nouns and な-adjectives, add なの. Example: 何かあったの？ (Did something happen?).
💡 Pro Tip Women often use の？ in casual speech, but men may say んだ？ instead. The intonation rises for a question. Very common in manga and daily conversation among friends.
Examples どうしたの？ 元気ないね。何かあったの？
Dōshita no? Genki nai ne. Nanika atta no?
What's the matter? You look down. Did anything happen?
お金を払わないで、ジュース飲んだの？
Okane o harawanaide, jūsu nonda no?
Did you drink juice without paying?
Structure: Verb (ない-form stem) + なきゃ (＋ ならない/いけない implied) → 'I/you must do'
The most casual form of obligation, derived from ～なければなりません. Often used alone without ならない. Friendly and abrupt, common among close friends or in self-talk.
Usage Notes Take the ない-form of the verb, remove ない, and add なきゃ. Example: 飲まない → 飲まなきゃ. No additional ending is needed. Can also be used as a complete sentence.
💡 Pro Tip Compare with ～なくちゃ: both are casual, but ～なきゃ is even shorter and more colloquial. In very fast speech, it can sound like '～なきゃ'. Use with people you're close to.
Examples ちゃんとお金を払ってから飲まなきゃ。
Chanto okane o haratte kara nomanakya.
You must pay for the juice before drinking.
電車に乗るときは、ちゃんと列に並ばなきゃ。
Densha ni noru toki wa, chanto retsu ni naranakya.
You must properly stand in line to ride a train.
Structure: V-て + みても + いいですか？
Used to ask for permission to try something. Commonly used when trying on clothes at a store.
Usage Notes Change the verb to て-form, add みる (to try), then add てもいいですか？ (may I?).
💡 Pro Tip ～てみる = 'try doing'. Adding てもいいですか？ makes it a polite request for permission. In casual speech, you can say ～てみてもいい？.
Examples このセーター、着てみてもいいですか？
Kono sētā, kite mite mo ii desu ka?
May I try on this sweater?
このケーキ、食べてみてもいいですか？
Kono kēki, tabete mite mo ii desu ka?
May I try this cake?
Structure: ナA (without な) + すぎます／イA (without い) + すぎます
Used to express that something is over the top or excessive. Can be used with both na-adjectives and i-adjectives.
Usage Notes For な-adjectives: remove な → add すぎます. For い-adjectives: remove い → add すぎます. Verbs also work: ます-stem + すぎます.
💡 Pro Tip すぎる can be positive or negative depending on context. Often softened with ちょっと or 少し (a little too...).
Examplesこの色はちょっと派手すぎます。
Kono iro wa chotto hadesugimasu.
This color is a bit too flashy for me.
このスープは熱すぎます。
Kono sūpu wa atsusugimasu.
This soup is too hot.
Structure: イA-い + の／ナA-な + の
の is used instead of a previously mentioned noun. Used when asking about or referring to specific items.
Usage Notes Attach の directly after an i-adjective (keep い) or na-adjective (add な). This の replaces the noun.
💡 Pro Tip Very common in shopping: 大きいの = 'a larger one', 赤いの = 'the red one'. You can also use this pattern with colors, sizes, styles, etc.
Examples もうちょっと大きいの、ありますか？
Mō chotto ōkii no, arimasu ka?
Do you have this in a larger size, please?
この靴、もっと安いのはありますか？
Kono kutsu, motto yasui no wa arimasu ka?
Do you have these shoes in a cheaper version?
Structure: Person は + Belonging を + V-(ら)れます
Used to express that your belongings have been affected or stolen. The person affected is the subject.
Usage Notes Use the passive form of the verb (Group I: う→われる, く→かれる, etc.; Group II: る→られる; Group III: する→される, 来る→来られる). The victim is marked with は, the belonging with を.
💡 Pro Tip This is the 'suffering passive' – something bad happens to your possession. The doer can be added with に (e.g., 泥棒に盗まれた).
Examples(私は)自転車を盗まれました。
(Watashi wa) jitensha o nusumaremashita.
I got my bicycle stolen.
電車の中で財布を取られました。
Densha no naka de saifu o toraremashita.
I got my wallet stolen on the train.
Structure: S (plain-form) + かもしれません
Used to express a judgment or possibility. Indicates that something might be true, but the possibility is not very high.
Usage Notes Attach かもしれません to the plain form of a sentence. For nouns/na-adjectives, you can add だ (e.g., 雨だかもしれません) or omit it (雨かもしれません).
💡 Pro Tip かも is a very common casual shortening. In speech, you'll often hear ～かもね / ～かもしれない. It expresses uncertainty, not high probability.
Examples もしかしたら、バッグをとられたかもしれません。
Moshikashitara, baggu o torareta kamoshiremasen.
Maybe my bag has been stolen.
明日は雪かもしれません。
Ashita wa yuki kamoshiremasen.
It might snow tomorrow.
Structure: V-て + しまいました
Used to express that the person regrets doing something or feels disappointed about something that happened.
Usage Notes Change the verb to て-form, add しまう. しまいました is past polite. Casual: ちゃった (e.g., 食べちゃった) / じゃった for で (e.g., 飲んじゃった).
💡 Pro Tip ～てしまう has two meanings: 1) regret/mistake, 2) complete an action (with a sense of finality). In casual speech, ちゃう/じゃう is very common.
Examples ポイントカード、忘れてしまいました。
Pointo kādo, wasurete shimaimashita.
I forgot to bring my point card.
約束の時間を間違えてしまいました。
Yakusoku no jikan o machigaete shimaimashita.
I mistakenly got the appointment time wrong.
Structure: V-る (dictionary form) + まで、～
Used to express duration until a certain action ends. Indicates the time frame continuing until the action is completed.
Usage Notes Attach まで to the dictionary form of a verb. The main clause describes what happens (or how much time passes) until that action is finished.
💡 Pro Tip Don't confuse with ～までに (by a deadline). ～まで means 'until' – the action/state continues right up to that point. Also works with nouns: 来週まで = until next week.
Examples 手元に届くまで、2日しかかかりませんでした。
Temoto ni todoku made, futsuka shika kakarimasen deshita.
It only took two days to reach me.
夜遅くまで仕事をしました。
Yoru osoku made shigoto o shimashita.
I worked until late at night.
Structure: V-masu stem (without ます) + やすいです／にくいです
Used to express the ease or difficulty of an action. ～やすい means 'easy to do', ～にくい means 'hard/difficult to do'.
Usage Notes Remove ます from the polite form of a verb, then add やすい or にくい. This creates an i-adjective, so it conjugates like one (～やすくない, ～やすかった, etc.).
💡 Pro Tip ～やすい can also mean 'tends to' (e.g., 壊れやすい = fragile/breaks easily). In the ease sense, it's often used with tools, products, or tasks. ～にくい is great for complaints!
Examples この掃除機は、重くて、使いにくいですね。
Kono sōjiki wa, omokute, tsukainikui desu ne.
This vacuum cleaner is heavy and hard to use.
このペンはとても書きやすいです。
Kono pen wa totemo kakiyasui desu.
This pen is very easy to write with.
Structure: N1 と N2（と）、どちら／どっちが + adjective/verb + か？
Used to compare two things. どちら is more formal, どっち is more casual.
Usage Notes List two nouns with と (the second と is optional). Then add どちら/どっちが followed by an adjective or verb in question form.
💡 Pro Tip When comparing more than two items, use どれ or どの～. In answers, use ～のほうが～. You can drop the second と in casual speech.
Examplesどっちが使いやすいですか？
Docchi ga tsukaiyasui desu ka?
Which is easier to use?
紅茶とコーヒーと、どちらが好きですか？
Kōcha to kōhī to, dochira ga suki desu ka?
Which do you like, tea or coffee?
Structure: (N1 より) N2 のほうが + adjective/verb
Used to indicate that N2 is more [adjective/verb] than N1. N1より can be omitted if the comparison is clear from context.
Usage Notes Place のほうが after the item you want to emphasize. Optionally add N1 より before it to state what you are comparing against.
💡 Pro Tip This is the standard way to say 'A is more ... than B'. Word order is flexible: N2 のほうが N1 より + adjective. Also common in recommendations: ～のほうがいいです (it's better to...).
Examples セーシバの掃除機のほうがスギシタより軽くて、動かしやすいですよ。
Sēshiba no sōjiki no hō ga Sugishita yori karukute, ugokashiyasui desu yo.
Seshiba's vacuum cleaner is lighter and easier to move around compared to Sugishita.
夏より秋のほうが好きです。
Natsu yori aki no hō ga suki desu.
I like autumn more than summer.
Structure: Object は + (Agent によって) + V-(ら)れます
Used to express that buildings, artworks, and other objects are built, created, or used. The object becomes the subject in passive form.
Usage Notes To form passive: Group I verbs: change u → aれる (e.g., 建てる → 建てられる). Group II: replace る → られる. Group III: する → される, くる → こられる. Use が/は for object, agent is optional and marked with によって.
💡 Pro Tip This is the neutral, descriptive passive — no suffering nuance. Very common in news, signs, and official announcements. In casual speech, によって is often omitted.
Examples この建物は、2年前に建てられました。
Kono tatemono wa, ninen mae ni tateraremashita.
This building was built two years ago.
このお寺は800年前に建てられました。
Kono otera wa happyaku nen mae ni tateraremashita.
This temple was built 800 years ago.
Structure: N が／を + V-て + あります
Used when the situation changed to the current state as a result of an intentional act. Indicates something has been prepared or arranged.
Usage Notes Take a transitive verb in て-form and add あります. The object is usually marked with が (or は), but を is also possible. It expresses a resultant state from someone's deliberate action.
💡 Pro Tip Compare with V-ています: 窓が開いています = the window is open (no agent focus). 窓が開けてあります = the window has been opened (by someone) and remains open. Use てある when you want to highlight that the state is the result of intentional action.
Examples 昔、使われた道具とか、いろいろな資料を展示してあります。
Mukashi, tsukawareta dōgu toka, iroiro na shiryō o tenji shite arimasu.
Tools used a long time ago and various materials are on display.
壁に地図が貼ってあります。
Kabe ni chizu ga hatte arimasu.
A map is put up on the wall.
Structure: N1 だけじゃなくて、N2 も + verb/adjective
Used to emphasize that both N1 and N2 are included. More formal version is Nだけでなく.
Usage Notes Attach だけじゃなくて to N1, then N2 + も + predicate. For verbs/adjectives, use plain form + だけじゃなくて (e.g., 安いだけじゃなくて).
💡 Pro Tip だけじゃなくて is conversational; in writing, だけでなく is preferred. This pattern also works for clauses: 日本に行くだけじゃなくて、韓国にも行きます.
Examples 本だけじゃなくて、CDとか、DVDもただで借りられます。
Hon dake janakute, CD toka, DVD mo tadade kariraremasu.
You can borrow not only books but also CDs and DVDs for free.
このレストランは安いだけじゃなくて、雰囲気もいいです。
Kono resutoran wa yasui dake janakute, fun'iki mo ii desu.
This restaurant is not only cheap but also has a nice atmosphere.
Structure: N + なら、～
Used to express a hypothetical condition or to refer to what someone said. Can also connect to verbs and adjectives.
Usage Notes Attach なら to a noun (or verb/adjective plain form). Means 'if it's N' or 'in the case of N'. Often used to give advice or make a suggestion based on an assumed condition.
💡 Pro Tip なら is different from たら/ば/と. It is used when the condition is assumed or when picking up a topic the listener just mentioned. Example: 図書館に行くなら、この本を返してきて下さい.
Examples 返却は、市内の図書館なら、どこに返してもいいです。
Henkyaku wa, shinai no toshokan nara, doko ni kaeshite mo ii desu.
You may return the book to any library within the city.
日本料理なら、寿司がおいしいですよ。
Nihon ryōri nara, sushi ga oishii desu yo.
If it's Japanese food, sushi is delicious.
Structure: Interrogative word + V-て + も、～
Indicates that the latter part of the sentence is possible in any case. Used with interrogative words like どこでも、だれでも, but when a verb is involved, use ～ても.
Usage Notes Use interrogative + verb て-form + も. Common patterns: どこに～ても (no matter where), だれが～ても (no matter who), 何を～ても (no matter what), いつ～ても (no matter when).
💡 Pro Tip For nouns, use でも: どこでも = anywhere, だれでも = anyone. For verbs, use ～ても. Both express 'no matter ~' or 'even if ~'. This is a very flexible and useful pattern.
Examples この図書館の本は、どこに住んでいても借りられます。
Kono toshokan no hon wa, doko ni sunde ite mo kariraremasu.
You can borrow books from this library no matter where you live.
この美術館は何回行っても飽きません。
Kono bijutsukan wa nankai itte mo akimasen.
No matter how many times I go to this museum, I never get bored.
Structure: ナA-に／イA-く + Verb
Used to indicate how to do an action. Na-adjectives change な to に, i-adjectives change い to く, and they are placed before verbs to modify them.
Usage Notes For な-adjectives: remove な → add に (e.g., 静かだ → 静かに). For い-adjectives: remove い → add く (e.g., 早い → 早く). Place directly before the verb.
💡 Pro Tip This turns adjectives into adverbs. Exception: いい (good) becomes よく, not いく. Also, some adjectives like 多い cannot be used this way (use たくさん instead).
Examples全体的に短く切って下さい。
Zentaite ni mijikaku kitte kudasai.
Please cut my hair short all over.
子供たちは静かに本を読んでいます。
Kodomotachi wa shizuka ni hon o yonde imasu.
The children are reading books quietly.
もっと早く走れますか？
Motto hayaku hashiremasu ka?
Can you run faster?
Structure: N + のために、～
Used to describe a target that receives benefits or privileges. Can also be used to express purpose when followed by a clause.
Usage Notes Attach のために to a noun. When the noun is a person/group, it means 'for the benefit of'. When the noun is an action (V-る), it expresses purpose (in order to).
💡 Pro Tip Don't confuse ～ために (purpose) with ～ように (purpose/situation change). Also, ため can mean 'because of' when followed by に: 事故のために遅れた (was late due to an accident).
Examples 外国の方のために、いろいろなサービスがあります。
Gaikoku no kata no tame ni, iroiro na sābisu ga arimasu.
There are various services available for people from other countries.
健康のために、毎日ジョギングをしています。
Kenkō no tame ni, mainichi jogingu o shite imasu.
I jog every day for my health.
Structure: V-た (ta-form) + まま + です
Used to describe a state that continues without changing, even though it should have ended. It emphasizes that something was left as is, often unintentionally or abnormally.
Usage Notes Connect a verb in た-form to ままです. Use でした for past. For example, つけたまま means 'left on' (should have turned off). そのまま means 'without changing the state' (e.g., そのまま食べる = eat as is, without cooking or seasoning). You can also use V-たまま、～ to say you do the next action while still in that state.
💡 Pro Tip まま can be used with nouns + の (靴のまま = with shoes on) or with negative verbs (食べないまま = without eating). It always implies an unchanged state, often contrary to expectation.
Examples 会議室の電気がついたままでしたよ。
Kaigishitsu no denki ga tsuita mama deshita yo.
The lights in the meeting room were left on.
昨日の夜、テレビをつけたまま寝てしまいました。
Kinō no yoru, terebi o tsuketa mama nete shimaimashita.
Last night, I fell asleep with the TV on.
Structure: V-る (dictionary form) + のに + いいです
Used to say that something is suitable or useful for a purpose. For example, 'good for the environment' or 'good for saving energy' — the noun + にいい changes into a verb form.
Usage Notes Take a verb in dictionary form, add の, then add にいいです. The の turns the verb into a noun phrase (nominalizer), and に marks the purpose. You can also use 使います (be used for) or 役立ちます (be useful for) instead of いいです.
💡 Pro Tip This のに is different from the contrastive のに (although). It expresses purpose/evaluation. Common in product reviews and recommendations. Example: 環境にいい (good for the environment) → ごみを減らすのにいい (good for reducing waste).
Examples マイストローは、ごみを減らすのにいいんですよ。
Mai sutorō wa, gomi o herasu no ni ii n desu yo.
Carrying your own straw is good for reducing waste.
このアプリは電車の乗り換えを調べるのに便利です。
Kono apuri wa densha no norikae o shiraberu no ni benri desu.
This app is useful for checking train transfers.
Structure: V (imperative-form) / V-る (dictionary form) + な
Used to instruct the other person firmly or give orders. Imperative form tells someone to do something, while adding な to dictionary form tells someone not to do something.
Usage Notes For Group I verbs: change u → e (e.g., 行く → 行け). For Group II: replace る → ろ (e.g., 食べる → 食べろ). For Group III: する → しろ, 来る → 来い. Prohibition: dictionary form + な (e.g., 行くな, 食べるな).
💡 Pro Tip These forms are very strong and are used in emergencies, sports, or by superiors to subordinates. In daily life, soften with ～て下さい or ～ないで下さい. Also note: くれる → くれ (give me) is a common exception.
Examples急げ。こっちに集まれ。走るな。
Isoge. Kocchi ni atsumare. Hashiru na.
Hurry up. Gather over here. Do not run.
ここに座れ。ここに座るな。
Koko ni suware. Koko ni suwaru na.
Sit here. Don't sit here.
Structure: V-ない (nai-form) + ように + して下さい
Used to ask the other person not to do certain things by making their best effort. More polite than direct prohibitions.
Usage Notes Change verb to ない-form (e.g., 吸う → 吸わない), add ようにして下さい. This expresses a polite request to try to avoid doing something.
💡 Pro Tip Softer and more indirect than ～ないで下さい. Often used in public announcements, workplace rules, and polite requests. You can also use ようにお願いします in very formal situations.
Examples できるだけ煙を吸わないようにして下さい。
Dekiru dake kemuri o suwanai yō ni shite kudasai.
Please try not to inhale smoke as much as possible.
遅刻しないようにして下さい。
Chikoku shinai yō ni shite kudasai.
Please try not to be late.
Structure: V-(られ)ない (potential negative) + なります
Used to describe changes where something becomes unable to be done. Indicates a change to a state where an action is no longer possible.
Usage Notes Take the potential negative form (e.g., 食べられる → 食べられない) or ability verb negative, drop い and add なります (e.g., 食べられなくなります). Also works with ～なくなる for other verbs.
💡 Pro Tip Often used with age, injury, or changing circumstances. Compare: できません = cannot (current state), できなくなります = become unable (change). The positive counterpart is V-られるようになります.
Examples ドアが開かなくなると、外に逃げられなくなります。
Doa ga akanaku naru to, soto ni nigerarenaku narimasu.
Once the doors become unable to open, people cannot escape to the outside.
年をとって、よく眠れなくなりました。
Toshi o totte, yoku nemurenaku narimashita.
As I got older, I became unable to sleep well.
Structure: S (te-form) + も、～
Used to mean 'even if a certain event occurs or even if it becomes a certain state'. Indicates that something is true regardless of conditions.
Usage Notes For verbs: て-form + も. For い-adjectives: replace い with くて + も (e.g., 安くても). For な-adjectives/nouns: + でも (e.g., 静かでも, 雨でも).
💡 Pro Tip Often paired with interrogative words (どこでも, だれでも, いつでも) to mean 'no matter where/who/when'. Also used to soften refusals: 高くても買いません = Even if it's expensive, I won't buy it.
Examples 大きな地震が来ても、あわてて動かないで下さい。
Ōkina jishin ga kite mo, awatete ugokanaide kudasai.
Do not move around in a hurry even when a large earthquake hits.
雨が降っても、試合は行われます。
Ame ga futte mo, shiai wa okonawaremasu.
Even if it rains, the game will be held.
Structure: S (plain-form) + かどうか、～
Used to express whether something is in a certain state or not. Equivalent to 'whether or not' in English.
Usage Notes Place かどうか after a plain-form sentence (noun + かどうか, adjective, verb). The main clause uses verbs like 知っています, わかりません, 聞いて下さい, etc.
💡 Pro Tip For yes/no questions embedded in a sentence. For wh-questions (who, what, where), use か alone: どこにあるか教えて下さい. かどうか is specifically for 'whether or not'.
Examples 店が開いているかどうか、わからないけど…。
Mise ga aite iru ka dō ka, wakaranai kedo….
I am not sure if the store is open…
この料理が辛いかどうか、知っていますか？
Kono ryōri ga karai ka dō ka, shitte imasu ka?
Do you know if this dish is spicy?
Structure: V-(られ)る (potential form) + ようになりました
Used to describe changes where someone has become able to do something that was not possible before. Specifically used with potential form verbs.
Usage Notes Change the verb to potential form (Group I: u → eru; Group II: ru → rareru; Group III: suru → dekiru, kuru → korareru), then add ようになりました.
💡 Pro Tip This pattern focuses on acquiring ability over time. For sudden realizations (e.g., 'I can see Mt. Fuji!'), use ～られる！ or ～える！ instead. Also, note the ら抜き言葉 in casual speech: 食べられる → 食べれるようになった.
Examples 最近は、ほかの人にお店の情報を教えられるようになりました。
Saikin wa, hoka no hito ni omise no jōhō o oshierareru yō ni narimashita.
Recently, I became able to share information about stores with others.
日本語の小説が読めるようになりました。
Nihongo no shōsetsu ga yomeru yō ni narimashita.
I became able to read Japanese novels.
Structure: V-る (dictionary form) + ようになりました
Used to express that a person's preference, mindset, or customs have changed. Indicates the start of a new habit or behavior.
Usage Notes Attach ようになりました to the dictionary form of a verb. Describes a change in routine or habit over time.
💡 Pro Tip Unlike ～ようにする (make an effort to do), ～ようになる is an objective change. It often follows verbs like 思う, 感じる, 好き, 嫌い, or daily actions. For negative habits, use ～なくなりました.
Examples 日本に来てから、料理にしょうゆを使うようになりました。
Nihon ni kite kara, ryōri ni shōyu o tsukau yō ni narimashita.
I started using soy sauce in cooking after I came to Japan.
毎朝ジョギングするようになりました。
Maiasa jogingu suru yō ni narimashita.
I started jogging every morning.
Structure: V-ない (nai-form) + なくなりました
Used to express changes where a person stopped doing something. Indicates the cessation of a habit or behavior.
Usage Notes Change the verb to ない-form, drop い, and add なくなりました (e.g., 食べない → 食べなくなります). This shows that something is no longer done.
💡 Pro Tip This is the opposite of ～るようになりました. Use it when a past habit or state has ended. Can also be used with adjectives: 高くなくなりました (it's no longer expensive).
Examples 日本に慣れて、生活に困らなくなりました。
Nihon ni narete, seikatsu ni komaranaku narimashita.
I no longer have problems living in Japan since I'm used to it.
忙しくて、テレビを見なくなりました。
Isogashikute, terebi o minaku narimashita.
I stopped watching TV because I'm busy.
Structure: V-(よ)う (volitional form) + と思います／思っています
Used to describe the person's future hopes, plans, and volition. 思っています indicates a longer-standing intention.
Usage Notes Form volitional: Group I: u → ō (e.g., 行く → 行こう). Group II: ru → yō (e.g., 食べる → 食べよう). Group III: する → しよう, 来る → 来よう. Attach と思います (thinking now) or 思っています (thinking for a while).
💡 Pro Tip ～ようと思う is for immediate decisions; ～ようと思っている is for ongoing plans. Casual: ～ようかな (I think I'll...). Compare with ～つもり (stronger intention).
Examples 将来は、タイで、自分の会社を作ろうと思います。
Shōrai wa, Tai de, jibun no kaisha o tsukurou to omoimasu.
I am thinking about starting my own company in Thailand in the future.
夏休みに富士山に登ろうと思っています。
Natsuyasumi ni Fujisan ni noborou to omotte imasu.
I've been thinking about climbing Mt. Fuji during summer vacation.
Structure: V-る (dictionary form) + ために、～
Used to describe the purpose of an act or activity. Used with volitional verbs that you can control with your own will.
Usage Notes Attach ために to the dictionary form of a volitional verb. The main clause is the action taken to achieve that purpose. For nouns: N + の + ために.
💡 Pro Tip Cannot be used with non-volitional verbs (e.g., わかる, できる). For those, use ～ように. ために also means 'for the sake of' with people: 家族のために働く.
Examples 日本に住むために、もっと日本語をがんばろうと思います。
Nihon ni sumu tame ni, motto nihongo o ganbarou to omoimasu.
I want to study Japanese harder so I can live in Japan.
健康のために、毎日運動しています。
Kenkō no tame ni, mainichi undō shite imasu.
I exercise every day for my health.
Structure: V-て (te-form) + あげます
Used to express that someone is doing an act for another person. Used when the person thinks the act is beneficial to the other person.
Usage Notes Change verb to て-form, add あげます. The receiver is marked with に. The speaker is often the giver. For humble form: ～てさしあげます.
💡 Pro Tip Be careful not to overuse ～てあげる when the receiver is superior; it can sound arrogant. In such cases, use ～ましょうか？ or humble expressions. Also used for offering help: 手伝ってあげましょうか？
Examples 両親に、家を建ててあげるつもりです。
Ryōshin ni, ie o tatete ageru tsumori desu.
I am going to build a house for my parents.
友達が引っ越しするので、手伝ってあげました。
Tomodachi ga hikkoshi suru node, tetsudatte agemashita.
My friend moved, so I helped them.
Structure: V-て (te-form) + もらいます
Used to express that the person receives a certain act from someone. Used when the receiver thinks the act is beneficial to them.
Usage Notes Change verb to て-form, add もらいます. The giver is marked with に or から. The receiver is the topic/subject. Humble: ～ていただきます.
💡 Pro Tip Focuses on the receiver's gratitude. Often used to politely acknowledge someone's favor: ～てもらってありがとうございます. For requests: ～てもらえますか？ / ～ていただけませんか？
Examples JF工業のみなさんには、とても親切にしてもらいました。
JF kōgyō no minasan ni wa, totemo shinsetsu ni shite moraimashita.
People at JF industry were very kind to me.
先生に作文を直してもらいました。
Sensei ni sakubun o naoshite moraimashita.
I had my teacher correct my essay.
Structure: V-て (te-form) + くれます
Used to express that someone does a certain act for the speaker. Used when the speaker thinks the act is beneficial to them.
Usage Notes Change verb to て-form, add くれます. The giver is the subject (marked with は/が), the receiver is the speaker or speaker's in-group. Honorific: ～て下さいます.
💡 Pro Tip くれる always implies the action is directed toward the speaker or someone close to the speaker. Very common in requests: ～てくれませんか？ (Can you do...?). Also used to express gratitude: ～てくれてありがとう.
Examples 山内さんは、私にたくさん、日本語を教えてくれました。
Yamauchi-san wa, watashi ni takusan, nihongo o oshiete kuremashita.
Yamauchi-san taught me a lot of Japanese.
母は私の誕生日にケーキを作ってくれました。
Haha wa watashi no tanjōbi ni kēki o tsukutte kuremashita.
My mother made me a cake for my birthday.
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