Christine wrote:
In order for more students to benefit, I will try and raise this for discussion in the Intermediate class this year. The students would have just passed JLPT3, so it should be an interesting discussion and review point.
I am not an advanced student of JP, I am very interested in discussion like this, however, would you mind answering my questions before we proceed?
Christine Tham wrote:However, one thing I have learnt from this discussion is that it is possible for even native speakers to have "alternative" interpretations of how to apply こと.
Isn't this can apply to all other languages as well? Given that there are so many different situations and scenarios unclear, obviously it has other "alternative" interpretation depending on your experience in such area, no?
Please read the part Coco san underlined :
Christine wrote:
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I'm sorry, but I think both you and richvh need to review your basic Japanese grammar.
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Therefore the only valid interpretation in this case is "the event of B, after A". ***
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So my comment still stands - you don't appear to know how to parse this sentence correctly. That would indicate to me your level of comprehension of Japanese grammar is sub JLPT3.
#1 With this kind of attitude, how do you think it would benefit us, learners of Japanese?
#2 Maybe it's a good idea to create a new thread if you think there is a need to further discuss things like those (quote this thread if you think it should be continue from here)
Christine wrote:
So from my perspective, it was never about "my translation is better than your translation nyah nyah nyah because my teacher said so." The point I was trying to make was "We already know what the intended meaning of the author is. Let's try to understand why. My explanation (for what it's worth) is ..."
Of course, one can still hold the view of "Well, I think the sentence should still be translated as ..." Well, that's possible, but that's tantamount to saying one of the dictionary definitions is therefore wrong, and therefore one of the lexicographers is incompetent. I personally am not willing to go down this path.
Chrsitine wrote:
It's not a contest, there are no winners or losers - I will continue to recommend that you seek professional, qualified advice rather than rely on opinions on the Internet, no matter how "qualified" you think they may be.
#3 Indeed, there are no winners or losers. So, please come back with your own understanding of the Japanese language, with your own interpretation, and if possible interact with Coco san or any other native Japaneses in Japanese, as to why you agree or disagree. I think this is a very good time for you to challenge yourself.
#4 At this point, I think it might be wise for you to realize that it's really your harsh comments and stubborness that lead to conflicts here. And I don't see the point of keep telling us to seek professional or qualified advice instead of rely on opinions on the internet. People here know their stuffs well, they know what to do. And, I've always thought that qualified professional people are all around the internet.