http://thejapanesepage.com/w/index.php?title=Special:Contributions&feed=atom&target=OngakukaWagaWiki - User contributions [en]2013-06-20T12:44:36ZFrom WagaWikiMediaWiki 1.15.1http://thejapanesepage.com/w/index.php?title=Japanese_Grammar_FAQJapanese Grammar FAQ2013-02-19T09:20:30Z<p>Ongakuka: /* Are Japanese tenses different from English? */</p>
<hr />
<div>I began writing this FAQ when I was still at a relatively early stage of learning Japanese. A fair few years must have past... so now I intend to write this thing up from start to finish.<br />
<br />
For the most part, I'll be referencing grammar questions that arose in the thejapanesepage.com 's forums. Any recommendations or personal queries? Feel free to send me a PM. I want to arrange these grammar questions starting with general/common questions, and gradually getting more specific and uncommon. I will try and answer them as concisely as possible. Anyone is welcome to make improvements (or corrections!) but I appreciate your asking first.<br />
<br />
That said, Yoroshiku!<br />
<br />
<br />
=== だ(da) VS です(desu) ===<br />
<br />
The copula だ・です is used to finalize a statement. They mean the same thing, except that です is polite and, like any polite Japanese, is usually prioritized when speaking to anyone outside of friends and family. The extremely polite form is でございます (de gozaimasu)<br />
<br />
Other forms of this word include である (de aru) which is used in formal or academic text/speech. It sounds very certain and sometimes even proud - like the title of Natsume Soseki's book: 我輩は猫である "I am a Cat." The Samurai-esque alternative is でござる (de gozaru).<br />
<br />
<br />
=== Can I use か(ka) after だ(da)? ===<br />
<br />
When asking a question in polite Japanese, your sentence will often end in 「ですか。」However, even though ですis a polite form of だ, Japanese people do not say だか, which actually gives off a distinct country-bumpkin feel. Questions in casual speech are best ended with the particle の (refer to the んだ・のだ section)<br />
<br />
It should also be noted that だ should not follow an i-adjective （「い形容詞」）or a verb. <br />
<br />
寒いだね X 寒いね ０<br />
<br />
さむいだね X さむいね ０<br />
<br />
On the other hand, verbs/i-adjectives can be joined to だ with ん/の but the meaning will be affected. For example:<br />
<br />
寒い ０<br />
<br />
寒いんだ ０ <br />
<br />
The first sentence means "It's (or "I'm") cold." The second sentence could mean "Oh it's cold" (indicating realization) or "I'm cold" (in explanation.) Please refer to the んだ・のだ section for more details.<br />
<br />
だ follows nouns and na-adjectives, as in 「猫（ねこ）だ」 or 「きれいだ」, but the polite form です conveniently may follow i-adjectives also. 「寒いです」<br />
<br />
=== Are Japanese tenses different from English? ===<br />
<br />
Talking about things in the past, present or future is easy enough in Japanese, but the past tense in particular can be somewhat misleading. <br />
<br />
1. Future. 私は勉強します。わたしはべんきょうします。 This literally means "I study" but because the dictionary form of Japanese verbs indicates one's intentions, it can be used to express what you are about to do. To express things at a later date in the future, you can use the dictionary form with time specific words such as "next week:" 「来週、映画を見に行きます。らいしゅう、えいがをみにいきます。」"Next week, ... go to see a movie." Note that the subject ("I" or "we" or "they") is left out as it would be understood from the context.<br />
<br />
For uncertain future events, simply add だろう・でしょう after the verb: 「彼はいつか帰ってくるだろう。かれはいつかかえってくるだろう。」"Someday he will return" (I think he will, but I can't be certain.)<br />
<br />
<br />
No matter what tense, the て form of a verb can be used to carry on the sentence. The two sentences below are in different tenses, but the verb in て form (開ける・あける to open) does not need to specify the tense because that is done by the final verb （入る・はいる to enter)<br />
<br />
（私は）ドアを開けて部屋に入ります。 "（I) open the door and enter the room"<br />
（私は）ドアを開けて部屋に入りました。 (I) opened the door and entered the room"<br />
<br />
=== What is ～んだ (-nda) / What is ～のだ (-noda) ===<br />
<br />
～んだ is a contraction of ～のだ. They are interchangeable, and both can be used in polite or casual Japanese. Since the former is more common, using the latter will sound like you are purposefully trying to sound serious, or proper, so I would say it works well in polite Japanese. <br />
<br />
They can follow an い形容詞 (i-adjective) or a verb. If you want to follow a な形容詞(na-adjective) you must include the な(na), please see examples below. Usage should be covered elsewhere, but I'll just say that inserting ん or の suggests one is seeking an explanation (when used in a question) or giving an explanation (when used in a statement.)<br />
<br />
Using ん・の in a question:<br />
<br />
イギリスは、今寒くないんですか Isn't the UK cold now? (Here「ん」demonstrates the speakers interest for the listener's knowledge/explanation.)<br />
<br />
いぎりすは、いまさむくないんですか<br />
<br />
<br />
宿題はもうやったの？ Have you already done your homework? (In casual speech, it generally works well to use の as your question marker.)<br />
<br />
しゅくだいはもうやったの？ <br />
<br />
<br />
Using ん・の in a statement can be to give an explanation, or acknowledge/understand something you didn't before. <br />
<br />
これは、便利なのです。 This useful/convenient. (Here the「の」is saying 'that's why!' in explanation as to why you like or recommend something.)<br />
<br />
これは、べんりなのです。<br />
<br />
<br />
終わったんだ。 It's finished/over (Here ん describes the speaker's realization at that very moment that something has finished.)<br />
<br />
おわったんだ。<br />
<br />
=== Conditionals: what's the difference? ===<br />
<br />
In English, we use the word "if" a lot; some of our conditionals ("were I to.." "should you..") are falling out of use. By contrast, Japanese has a number of conditionals that are ''all used frequently'', and understanding the way to distinguish the use of these is a challenge all Japanese learners will face. Despite having distinct nuances, there are times when more than one conditional will fit a given sentence, which is probably one of the causes of confusion.<br />
<br />
'''たら/tara'''<br />
<br />
<br />
'''ば/ba'''<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
'''と/to'''<br />
<br />
と is placed after a verb in dictionary/plain form. For example, 見ると (if/when I look.) Whatever follows next, と tells us that it follows (or followed) succinctly, smoothly, directly. This can be thought of as 'cause and effect.'<br />
写真を見ると、彼を思い出します。When I look at the photo, I remember him. しゃしんをみると、かれをおもいだします。<br />
<br />
It is often used in the context of giving advice. In such a context, it is clearly more assertive than ば or たら。<br />
<br />
それを持っていくと便利ですよ If you take that with you, it's useful! (underlying nuance: you really ought to take it!)<br />
<br />
それをもっていくとべんりですよ<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
暖かいうちに食べるといい It's better if you eat it whilst it's hot (underlying nuance: I really recommend you eat it whilst it's hot)<br />
<br />
あたたかいうちにたべるといい<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
*Advanced: と following the volitional form of a verb will create the meaning 'even if' (usually expressed with verb stem + ても) I feel that using と in this way has a sense of poetry or emotion.<br />
<br />
何を言われても、気にしない ＞＞＞ 何を言われようと、気にしない<br />
<br />
'''もし/moshi'''<br />
<br />
'''なら/nara'''<br />
<br />
Has the nuance of 'provided that.' 'On condition that.' なら directly follows a verb or noun. <br />
<br />
あなたも行くなら、私も行く If you will go, I will go too. (underlying nuance: I'll go too but only if you are)<br />
<br />
あなたもいくなら、わたしもいく<br />
<br />
<br />
君ならできる If it's you, you can do it (underlying nuance: If anyone can do it, you can)<br />
<br />
きみならできる<br />
<br />
=== ている VS てる ===<br />
<br />
Leaving out the い does not change the meaning, てる originated from fast colloquial speech patterns (in the same way as people say 'gonna' for 'going.'<br />
<br />
本を読んでいる ＞＞＞本を読んでる<br />
<br />
汗をかいている ＞＞＞ 汗をかいてる</div>Ongakukahttp://thejapanesepage.com/w/index.php?title=Japanese_Grammar_FAQJapanese Grammar FAQ2013-02-17T05:37:00Z<p>Ongakuka: /* What is ～んだ (-nda) / What is ～のだ (-noda) */</p>
<hr />
<div>I began writing this FAQ when I was still at a relatively early stage of learning Japanese. A fair few years must have past... so now I intend to write this thing up from start to finish.<br />
<br />
For the most part, I'll be referencing grammar questions that arose in the thejapanesepage.com 's forums. Any recommendations or personal queries? Feel free to send me a PM. I want to arrange these grammar questions starting with general/common questions, and gradually getting more specific and uncommon. I will try and answer them as concisely as possible. Anyone is welcome to make improvements (or corrections!) but I appreciate your asking first.<br />
<br />
That said, Yoroshiku!<br />
<br />
<br />
=== だ(da) VS です(desu) ===<br />
<br />
The copula だ・です is used to finalize a statement. They mean the same thing, except that です is polite and, like any polite Japanese, is usually prioritized when speaking to anyone outside of friends and family. The extremely polite form is でございます (de gozaimasu)<br />
<br />
Other forms of this word include である (de aru) which is used in formal or academic text/speech. It sounds very certain and sometimes even proud - like the title of Natsume Soseki's book: 我輩は猫である "I am a Cat." The Samurai-esque alternative is でござる (de gozaru).<br />
<br />
<br />
=== Can I use か(ka) after だ(da)? ===<br />
<br />
When asking a question in polite Japanese, your sentence will often end in 「ですか。」However, even though ですis a polite form of だ, Japanese people do not say だか, which actually gives off a distinct country-bumpkin feel. Questions in casual speech are best ended with the particle の (refer to the んだ・のだ section)<br />
<br />
It should also be noted that だ should not follow an i-adjective （「い形容詞」）or a verb. <br />
<br />
寒いだね X 寒いね ０<br />
<br />
さむいだね X さむいね ０<br />
<br />
On the other hand, verbs/i-adjectives can be joined to だ with ん/の but the meaning will be affected. For example:<br />
<br />
寒い ０<br />
<br />
寒いんだ ０ <br />
<br />
The first sentence means "It's (or "I'm") cold." The second sentence could mean "Oh it's cold" (indicating realization) or "I'm cold" (in explanation.) Please refer to the んだ・のだ section for more details.<br />
<br />
だ follows nouns and na-adjectives, as in 「猫（ねこ）だ」 or 「きれいだ」, but the polite form です conveniently may follow i-adjectives also. 「寒いです」<br />
<br />
=== Are Japanese tenses different from English? ===<br />
<br />
Talking about things in the past, present or future is easy enough in Japanese, but the past tense in particular can be somewhat misleading. <br />
<br />
1. Future. 私は勉強します。わたしはべんきょうします。 This literally means "I study" but because the dictionary form of Japanese verbs indicates one's intentions, it can be used to express what you are about to do. To express things at a later date in the future, you can use the dictionary form with time specific words such as "next week:" 「来週、映画を見に行きます。らいしゅう、えいがをみにいきます。」"Next week, ... go to see a movie." Note that the subject ("I" or "we" or "they") is left out as it would be understood from the context.<br />
<br />
For uncertain future events, simply add だろう・でしょう after the verb: 「彼はいつか帰ってくるだろう。かれはいつかかえってくるだろう。」"Someday he will return" (I think he will, but I can't be certain.)<br />
<br />
<br />
=== What is ～んだ (-nda) / What is ～のだ (-noda) ===<br />
<br />
～んだ is a contraction of ～のだ. They are interchangeable, and both can be used in polite or casual Japanese. Since the former is more common, using the latter will sound like you are purposefully trying to sound serious, or proper, so I would say it works well in polite Japanese. <br />
<br />
They can follow an い形容詞 (i-adjective) or a verb. If you want to follow a な形容詞(na-adjective) you must include the な(na), please see examples below. Usage should be covered elsewhere, but I'll just say that inserting ん or の suggests one is seeking an explanation (when used in a question) or giving an explanation (when used in a statement.)<br />
<br />
Using ん・の in a question:<br />
<br />
イギリスは、今寒くないんですか Isn't the UK cold now? (Here「ん」demonstrates the speakers interest for the listener's knowledge/explanation.)<br />
<br />
いぎりすは、いまさむくないんですか<br />
<br />
<br />
宿題はもうやったの？ Have you already done your homework? (In casual speech, it generally works well to use の as your question marker.)<br />
<br />
しゅくだいはもうやったの？ <br />
<br />
<br />
Using ん・の in a statement can be to give an explanation, or acknowledge/understand something you didn't before. <br />
<br />
これは、便利なのです。 This useful/convenient. (Here the「の」is saying 'that's why!' in explanation as to why you like or recommend something.)<br />
<br />
これは、べんりなのです。<br />
<br />
<br />
終わったんだ。 It's finished/over (Here ん describes the speaker's realization at that very moment that something has finished.)<br />
<br />
おわったんだ。<br />
<br />
=== Conditionals: what's the difference? ===<br />
<br />
In English, we use the word "if" a lot; some of our conditionals ("were I to.." "should you..") are falling out of use. By contrast, Japanese has a number of conditionals that are ''all used frequently'', and understanding the way to distinguish the use of these is a challenge all Japanese learners will face. Despite having distinct nuances, there are times when more than one conditional will fit a given sentence, which is probably one of the causes of confusion.<br />
<br />
'''たら/tara'''<br />
<br />
<br />
'''ば/ba'''<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
'''と/to'''<br />
<br />
と is placed after a verb in dictionary/plain form. For example, 見ると (if/when I look.) Whatever follows next, と tells us that it follows (or followed) succinctly, smoothly, directly. This can be thought of as 'cause and effect.'<br />
写真を見ると、彼を思い出します。When I look at the photo, I remember him. しゃしんをみると、かれをおもいだします。<br />
<br />
It is often used in the context of giving advice. In such a context, it is clearly more assertive than ば or たら。<br />
<br />
それを持っていくと便利ですよ If you take that with you, it's useful! (underlying nuance: you really ought to take it!)<br />
<br />
それをもっていくとべんりですよ<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
暖かいうちに食べるといい It's better if you eat it whilst it's hot (underlying nuance: I really recommend you eat it whilst it's hot)<br />
<br />
あたたかいうちにたべるといい<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
*Advanced: と following the volitional form of a verb will create the meaning 'even if' (usually expressed with verb stem + ても) I feel that using と in this way has a sense of poetry or emotion.<br />
<br />
何を言われても、気にしない ＞＞＞ 何を言われようと、気にしない<br />
<br />
'''もし/moshi'''<br />
<br />
'''なら/nara'''<br />
<br />
Has the nuance of 'provided that.' 'On condition that.' なら directly follows a verb or noun. <br />
<br />
あなたも行くなら、私も行く If you will go, I will go too. (underlying nuance: I'll go too but only if you are)<br />
<br />
あなたもいくなら、わたしもいく<br />
<br />
<br />
君ならできる If it's you, you can do it (underlying nuance: If anyone can do it, you can)<br />
<br />
きみならできる<br />
<br />
=== ている VS てる ===<br />
<br />
Leaving out the い does not change the meaning, てる originated from fast colloquial speech patterns (in the same way as people say 'gonna' for 'going.'<br />
<br />
本を読んでいる ＞＞＞本を読んでる<br />
<br />
汗をかいている ＞＞＞ 汗をかいてる</div>Ongakukahttp://thejapanesepage.com/w/index.php?title=Japanese_Grammar_FAQJapanese Grammar FAQ2013-02-17T05:13:18Z<p>Ongakuka: /* Can I use か(ka) after だ(da)? */</p>
<hr />
<div>I began writing this FAQ when I was still at a relatively early stage of learning Japanese. A fair few years must have past... so now I intend to write this thing up from start to finish.<br />
<br />
For the most part, I'll be referencing grammar questions that arose in the thejapanesepage.com 's forums. Any recommendations or personal queries? Feel free to send me a PM. I want to arrange these grammar questions starting with general/common questions, and gradually getting more specific and uncommon. I will try and answer them as concisely as possible. Anyone is welcome to make improvements (or corrections!) but I appreciate your asking first.<br />
<br />
That said, Yoroshiku!<br />
<br />
<br />
=== だ(da) VS です(desu) ===<br />
<br />
The copula だ・です is used to finalize a statement. They mean the same thing, except that です is polite and, like any polite Japanese, is usually prioritized when speaking to anyone outside of friends and family. The extremely polite form is でございます (de gozaimasu)<br />
<br />
Other forms of this word include である (de aru) which is used in formal or academic text/speech. It sounds very certain and sometimes even proud - like the title of Natsume Soseki's book: 我輩は猫である "I am a Cat." The Samurai-esque alternative is でござる (de gozaru).<br />
<br />
<br />
=== Can I use か(ka) after だ(da)? ===<br />
<br />
When asking a question in polite Japanese, your sentence will often end in 「ですか。」However, even though ですis a polite form of だ, Japanese people do not say だか, which actually gives off a distinct country-bumpkin feel. Questions in casual speech are best ended with the particle の (refer to the んだ・のだ section)<br />
<br />
It should also be noted that だ should not follow an i-adjective （「い形容詞」）or a verb. <br />
<br />
寒いだね X 寒いね ０<br />
<br />
さむいだね X さむいね ０<br />
<br />
On the other hand, verbs/i-adjectives can be joined to だ with ん/の but the meaning will be affected. For example:<br />
<br />
寒い ０<br />
<br />
寒いんだ ０ <br />
<br />
The first sentence means "It's (or "I'm") cold." The second sentence could mean "Oh it's cold" (indicating realization) or "I'm cold" (in explanation.) Please refer to the んだ・のだ section for more details.<br />
<br />
だ follows nouns and na-adjectives, as in 「猫（ねこ）だ」 or 「きれいだ」, but the polite form です conveniently may follow i-adjectives also. 「寒いです」<br />
<br />
=== What is ～んだ (-nda) / What is ～のだ (-noda) ===<br />
<br />
～んだ is a contraction of ～のだ. They are interchangeable, and both can be used in polite or casual Japanese. Since the former is more common, using the latter will sound like you are purposefully trying to sound serious, or proper, so I would say it works well in polite Japanese. <br />
<br />
They can follow an い形容詞 (i-adjective) or a verb. If you want to follow a な形容詞(na-adjective) you must include the な(na), please see examples below. Usage should be covered elsewhere, but I'll just say that inserting ん or の suggests one is seeking an explanation (when used in a question) or giving an explanation (when used in a statement.)<br />
<br />
Using ん・の in a question:<br />
<br />
イギリスは、今寒くないんですか Isn't the UK cold now? (Here「ん」demonstrates the speakers interest for the listener's knowledge/explanation.)<br />
<br />
いぎりすは、いまさむくないんですか<br />
<br />
<br />
宿題はもうやったの？ Have you already done your homework? (In casual speech, it generally works well to use の as your question marker.)<br />
<br />
しゅくだいはもうやったの？ <br />
<br />
<br />
Using ん・の in a statement can be to give an explanation, or acknowledge/understand something you didn't before. <br />
<br />
これは、便利なのです。 This useful/convenient. (Here the「の」is saying 'that's why!' in explanation as to why you like or recommend something.)<br />
<br />
これは、べんりなのです。<br />
<br />
<br />
終わったんだ。 It's finished/over (Here ん describes the speaker's realization at that very moment that something has finished.)<br />
<br />
おわったんだ。<br />
<br />
=== Conditionals: what's the difference? ===<br />
<br />
In English, we use the word "if" a lot; some of our conditionals ("were I to.." "should you..") are falling out of use. By contrast, Japanese has a number of conditionals that are ''all used frequently'', and understanding the way to distinguish the use of these is a challenge all Japanese learners will face. Despite having distinct nuances, there are times when more than one conditional will fit a given sentence, which is probably one of the causes of confusion.<br />
<br />
'''たら/tara'''<br />
<br />
<br />
'''ば/ba'''<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
'''と/to'''<br />
<br />
と is placed after a verb in dictionary/plain form. For example, 見ると (if/when I look.) Whatever follows next, と tells us that it follows (or followed) succinctly, smoothly, directly. This can be thought of as 'cause and effect.'<br />
写真を見ると、彼を思い出します。When I look at the photo, I remember him. しゃしんをみると、かれをおもいだします。<br />
<br />
It is often used in the context of giving advice. In such a context, it is clearly more assertive than ば or たら。<br />
<br />
それを持っていくと便利ですよ If you take that with you, it's useful! (underlying nuance: you really ought to take it!)<br />
<br />
それをもっていくとべんりですよ<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
暖かいうちに食べるといい It's better if you eat it whilst it's hot (underlying nuance: I really recommend you eat it whilst it's hot)<br />
<br />
あたたかいうちにたべるといい<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
*Advanced: と following the volitional form of a verb will create the meaning 'even if' (usually expressed with verb stem + ても) I feel that using と in this way has a sense of poetry or emotion.<br />
<br />
何を言われても、気にしない ＞＞＞ 何を言われようと、気にしない<br />
<br />
'''もし/moshi'''<br />
<br />
'''なら/nara'''<br />
<br />
Has the nuance of 'provided that.' 'On condition that.' なら directly follows a verb or noun. <br />
<br />
あなたも行くなら、私も行く If you will go, I will go too. (underlying nuance: I'll go too but only if you are)<br />
<br />
あなたもいくなら、わたしもいく<br />
<br />
<br />
君ならできる If it's you, you can do it (underlying nuance: If anyone can do it, you can)<br />
<br />
きみならできる<br />
<br />
=== ている VS てる ===<br />
<br />
Leaving out the い does not change the meaning, てる originated from fast colloquial speech patterns (in the same way as people say 'gonna' for 'going.'<br />
<br />
本を読んでいる ＞＞＞本を読んでる<br />
<br />
汗をかいている ＞＞＞ 汗をかいてる</div>Ongakukahttp://thejapanesepage.com/w/index.php?title=Japanese_Grammar_FAQJapanese Grammar FAQ2013-02-17T05:10:36Z<p>Ongakuka: /* Can I use か(ka) after だ(da)? */</p>
<hr />
<div>I began writing this FAQ when I was still at a relatively early stage of learning Japanese. A fair few years must have past... so now I intend to write this thing up from start to finish.<br />
<br />
For the most part, I'll be referencing grammar questions that arose in the thejapanesepage.com 's forums. Any recommendations or personal queries? Feel free to send me a PM. I want to arrange these grammar questions starting with general/common questions, and gradually getting more specific and uncommon. I will try and answer them as concisely as possible. Anyone is welcome to make improvements (or corrections!) but I appreciate your asking first.<br />
<br />
That said, Yoroshiku!<br />
<br />
<br />
=== だ(da) VS です(desu) ===<br />
<br />
The copula だ・です is used to finalize a statement. They mean the same thing, except that です is polite and, like any polite Japanese, is usually prioritized when speaking to anyone outside of friends and family. The extremely polite form is でございます (de gozaimasu)<br />
<br />
Other forms of this word include である (de aru) which is used in formal or academic text/speech. It sounds very certain and sometimes even proud - like the title of Natsume Soseki's book: 我輩は猫である "I am a Cat." The Samurai-esque alternative is でござる (de gozaru).<br />
<br />
<br />
=== Can I use か(ka) after だ(da)? ===<br />
<br />
When asking a question in polite Japanese, your sentence will often end in 「ですか。」However, even though ですis a polite form of だ, Japanese people do not say だか, which actually gives off a distinct country-bumpkin feel. Questions in casual speech are best ended with the particle の (refer to the んだ・のだ section)<br />
<br />
It should also be noted that だ should not follow an i-adjective （「い形容詞」）or a verb. <br />
<br />
寒いだね X 寒いね ０<br />
<br />
さむいだね X さむいね ０<br />
<br />
On the other hand, verbs/i-adjectives can be joined to だ with ん/の but the meaning will be affected. For example:<br />
<br />
寒い ０<br />
<br />
寒いんだ ０ <br />
<br />
The first sentence means "It's (or "I'm") cold." The second sentence could mean "Oh it's cold" (contrary to my expectation) or "I'm cold" (in explanation.) Please refer to the んだ・のだ section for more details.<br />
<br />
だ follows nouns and na-adjectives, as in 「猫（ねこ）だ」 or 「きれいだ」, but the polite form です conveniently may follow i-adjectives also. 「寒いです」<br />
<br />
=== What is ～んだ (-nda) / What is ～のだ (-noda) ===<br />
<br />
～んだ is a contraction of ～のだ. They are interchangeable, and both can be used in polite or casual Japanese. Since the former is more common, using the latter will sound like you are purposefully trying to sound serious, or proper, so I would say it works well in polite Japanese. <br />
<br />
They can follow an い形容詞 (i-adjective) or a verb. If you want to follow a な形容詞(na-adjective) you must include the な(na), please see examples below. Usage should be covered elsewhere, but I'll just say that inserting ん or の suggests one is seeking an explanation (when used in a question) or giving an explanation (when used in a statement.)<br />
<br />
Using ん・の in a question:<br />
<br />
イギリスは、今寒くないんですか Isn't the UK cold now? (Here「ん」demonstrates the speakers interest for the listener's knowledge/explanation.)<br />
<br />
いぎりすは、いまさむくないんですか<br />
<br />
<br />
宿題はもうやったの？ Have you already done your homework? (In casual speech, it generally works well to use の as your question marker.)<br />
<br />
しゅくだいはもうやったの？ <br />
<br />
<br />
Using ん・の in a statement can be to give an explanation, or acknowledge/understand something you didn't before. <br />
<br />
これは、便利なのです。 This useful/convenient. (Here the「の」is saying 'that's why!' in explanation as to why you like or recommend something.)<br />
<br />
これは、べんりなのです。<br />
<br />
<br />
終わったんだ。 It's finished/over (Here ん describes the speaker's realization at that very moment that something has finished.)<br />
<br />
おわったんだ。<br />
<br />
=== Conditionals: what's the difference? ===<br />
<br />
In English, we use the word "if" a lot; some of our conditionals ("were I to.." "should you..") are falling out of use. By contrast, Japanese has a number of conditionals that are ''all used frequently'', and understanding the way to distinguish the use of these is a challenge all Japanese learners will face. Despite having distinct nuances, there are times when more than one conditional will fit a given sentence, which is probably one of the causes of confusion.<br />
<br />
'''たら/tara'''<br />
<br />
<br />
'''ば/ba'''<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
'''と/to'''<br />
<br />
と is placed after a verb in dictionary/plain form. For example, 見ると (if/when I look.) Whatever follows next, と tells us that it follows (or followed) succinctly, smoothly, directly. This can be thought of as 'cause and effect.'<br />
写真を見ると、彼を思い出します。When I look at the photo, I remember him. しゃしんをみると、かれをおもいだします。<br />
<br />
It is often used in the context of giving advice. In such a context, it is clearly more assertive than ば or たら。<br />
<br />
それを持っていくと便利ですよ If you take that with you, it's useful! (underlying nuance: you really ought to take it!)<br />
<br />
それをもっていくとべんりですよ<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
暖かいうちに食べるといい It's better if you eat it whilst it's hot (underlying nuance: I really recommend you eat it whilst it's hot)<br />
<br />
あたたかいうちにたべるといい<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
*Advanced: と following the volitional form of a verb will create the meaning 'even if' (usually expressed with verb stem + ても) I feel that using と in this way has a sense of poetry or emotion.<br />
<br />
何を言われても、気にしない ＞＞＞ 何を言われようと、気にしない<br />
<br />
'''もし/moshi'''<br />
<br />
'''なら/nara'''<br />
<br />
Has the nuance of 'provided that.' 'On condition that.' なら directly follows a verb or noun. <br />
<br />
あなたも行くなら、私も行く If you will go, I will go too. (underlying nuance: I'll go too but only if you are)<br />
<br />
あなたもいくなら、わたしもいく<br />
<br />
<br />
君ならできる If it's you, you can do it (underlying nuance: If anyone can do it, you can)<br />
<br />
きみならできる<br />
<br />
=== ている VS てる ===<br />
<br />
Leaving out the い does not change the meaning, てる originated from fast colloquial speech patterns (in the same way as people say 'gonna' for 'going.'<br />
<br />
本を読んでいる ＞＞＞本を読んでる<br />
<br />
汗をかいている ＞＞＞ 汗をかいてる</div>Ongakukahttp://thejapanesepage.com/w/index.php?title=Japanese_Grammar_FAQJapanese Grammar FAQ2013-02-15T08:40:51Z<p>Ongakuka: /* What is ～んだ (-nda) / What is ～のだ (-noda) */</p>
<hr />
<div>I began writing this FAQ when I was still at a relatively early stage of learning Japanese. A fair few years must have past... so now I intend to write this thing up from start to finish.<br />
<br />
For the most part, I'll be referencing grammar questions that arose in the thejapanesepage.com 's forums. Any recommendations or personal queries? Feel free to send me a PM. I want to arrange these grammar questions starting with general/common questions, and gradually getting more specific and uncommon. I will try and answer them as concisely as possible. Anyone is welcome to make improvements (or corrections!) but I appreciate your asking first.<br />
<br />
That said, Yoroshiku!<br />
<br />
<br />
=== だ(da) VS です(desu) ===<br />
<br />
The copula だ・です is used to finalize a statement. They mean the same thing, except that です is polite and, like any polite Japanese, is usually prioritized when speaking to anyone outside of friends and family. The extremely polite form is でございます (de gozaimasu)<br />
<br />
Other forms of this word include である (de aru) which is used in formal or academic text/speech. It sounds very certain and sometimes even proud - like the title of Natsume Soseki's book: 我輩は猫である "I am a Cat." The Samurai-esque alternative is でござる (de gozaru).<br />
<br />
<br />
=== Can I use か(ka) after だ(da)? ===<br />
<br />
When asking a question in polite Japanese, your sentence will often end in 「ですか。」However, even though ですis a polite form of だ, Japanese people do not say だか, which actually gives off a distinct country-bumpkin feel. Questions in casual speech are best ended with the particle の (refer to the んだ・のだ section)<br />
<br />
It should also be noted that だ should not follow an i-adjective （「い形容詞」）or a verb.<br />
<br />
寒いだね X 寒いね ０<br />
<br />
さむいだね X さむいね ０<br />
<br />
On the other hand, verbs/i-adjectives can be joined to だ with ん/の but the meaning will be affected. For example:<br />
<br />
寒い ０<br />
<br />
寒いんだ ０ <br />
<br />
The first sentence means "It's (or "I'm") cold." The second sentence could mean "Oh it's cold" (contrary to my expectation) or "I'm cold" (in explanation.) Please refer to the んだ・のだ section for more details.<br />
<br />
=== What is ～んだ (-nda) / What is ～のだ (-noda) ===<br />
<br />
～んだ is a contraction of ～のだ. They are interchangeable, and both can be used in polite or casual Japanese. Since the former is more common, using the latter will sound like you are purposefully trying to sound serious, or proper, so I would say it works well in polite Japanese. <br />
<br />
They can follow an い形容詞 (i-adjective) or a verb. If you want to follow a な形容詞(na-adjective) you must include the な(na), please see examples below. Usage should be covered elsewhere, but I'll just say that inserting ん or の suggests one is seeking an explanation (when used in a question) or giving an explanation (when used in a statement.)<br />
<br />
Using ん・の in a question:<br />
<br />
イギリスは、今寒くないんですか Isn't the UK cold now? (Here「ん」demonstrates the speakers interest for the listener's knowledge/explanation.)<br />
<br />
いぎりすは、いまさむくないんですか<br />
<br />
<br />
宿題はもうやったの？ Have you already done your homework? (In casual speech, it generally works well to use の as your question marker.)<br />
<br />
しゅくだいはもうやったの？ <br />
<br />
<br />
Using ん・の in a statement can be to give an explanation, or acknowledge/understand something you didn't before. <br />
<br />
これは、便利なのです。 This useful/convenient. (Here the「の」is saying 'that's why!' in explanation as to why you like or recommend something.)<br />
<br />
これは、べんりなのです。<br />
<br />
<br />
終わったんだ。 It's finished/over (Here ん describes the speaker's realization at that very moment that something has finished.)<br />
<br />
おわったんだ。<br />
<br />
=== Conditionals: what's the difference? ===<br />
<br />
In English, we use the word "if" a lot; some of our conditionals ("were I to.." "should you..") are falling out of use. By contrast, Japanese has a number of conditionals that are ''all used frequently'', and understanding the way to distinguish the use of these is a challenge all Japanese learners will face. Despite having distinct nuances, there are times when more than one conditional will fit a given sentence, which is probably one of the causes of confusion.<br />
<br />
'''たら/tara'''<br />
<br />
<br />
'''ば/ba'''<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
'''と/to'''<br />
<br />
と is placed after a verb in dictionary/plain form. For example, 見ると (if/when I look.) Whatever follows next, と tells us that it follows (or followed) succinctly, smoothly, directly. This can be thought of as 'cause and effect.'<br />
写真を見ると、彼を思い出します。When I look at the photo, I remember him. しゃしんをみると、かれをおもいだします。<br />
<br />
It is often used in the context of giving advice. In such a context, it is clearly more assertive than ば or たら。<br />
<br />
それを持っていくと便利ですよ If you take that with you, it's useful! (underlying nuance: you really ought to take it!)<br />
<br />
それをもっていくとべんりですよ<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
暖かいうちに食べるといい It's better if you eat it whilst it's hot (underlying nuance: I really recommend you eat it whilst it's hot)<br />
<br />
あたたかいうちにたべるといい<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
*Advanced: と following the volitional form of a verb will create the meaning 'even if' (usually expressed with verb stem + ても) I feel that using と in this way has a sense of poetry or emotion.<br />
<br />
何を言われても、気にしない ＞＞＞ 何を言われようと、気にしない<br />
<br />
'''もし/moshi'''<br />
<br />
'''なら/nara'''<br />
<br />
Has the nuance of 'provided that.' 'On condition that.' なら directly follows a verb or noun. <br />
<br />
あなたも行くなら、私も行く If you will go, I will go too. (underlying nuance: I'll go too but only if you are)<br />
<br />
あなたもいくなら、わたしもいく<br />
<br />
<br />
君ならできる If it's you, you can do it (underlying nuance: If anyone can do it, you can)<br />
<br />
きみならできる<br />
<br />
=== ている VS てる ===<br />
<br />
Leaving out the い does not change the meaning, てる originated from fast colloquial speech patterns (in the same way as people say 'gonna' for 'going.'<br />
<br />
本を読んでいる ＞＞＞本を読んでる<br />
<br />
汗をかいている ＞＞＞ 汗をかいてる</div>Ongakukahttp://thejapanesepage.com/w/index.php?title=Japanese_Grammar_FAQJapanese Grammar FAQ2013-02-15T08:39:54Z<p>Ongakuka: /* What is ～んだ (-nda) / What is ～のだ (-noda) */</p>
<hr />
<div>I began writing this FAQ when I was still at a relatively early stage of learning Japanese. A fair few years must have past... so now I intend to write this thing up from start to finish.<br />
<br />
For the most part, I'll be referencing grammar questions that arose in the thejapanesepage.com 's forums. Any recommendations or personal queries? Feel free to send me a PM. I want to arrange these grammar questions starting with general/common questions, and gradually getting more specific and uncommon. I will try and answer them as concisely as possible. Anyone is welcome to make improvements (or corrections!) but I appreciate your asking first.<br />
<br />
That said, Yoroshiku!<br />
<br />
<br />
=== だ(da) VS です(desu) ===<br />
<br />
The copula だ・です is used to finalize a statement. They mean the same thing, except that です is polite and, like any polite Japanese, is usually prioritized when speaking to anyone outside of friends and family. The extremely polite form is でございます (de gozaimasu)<br />
<br />
Other forms of this word include である (de aru) which is used in formal or academic text/speech. It sounds very certain and sometimes even proud - like the title of Natsume Soseki's book: 我輩は猫である "I am a Cat." The Samurai-esque alternative is でござる (de gozaru).<br />
<br />
<br />
=== Can I use か(ka) after だ(da)? ===<br />
<br />
When asking a question in polite Japanese, your sentence will often end in 「ですか。」However, even though ですis a polite form of だ, Japanese people do not say だか, which actually gives off a distinct country-bumpkin feel. Questions in casual speech are best ended with the particle の (refer to the んだ・のだ section)<br />
<br />
It should also be noted that だ should not follow an i-adjective （「い形容詞」）or a verb.<br />
<br />
寒いだね X 寒いね ０<br />
<br />
さむいだね X さむいね ０<br />
<br />
On the other hand, verbs/i-adjectives can be joined to だ with ん/の but the meaning will be affected. For example:<br />
<br />
寒い ０<br />
<br />
寒いんだ ０ <br />
<br />
The first sentence means "It's (or "I'm") cold." The second sentence could mean "Oh it's cold" (contrary to my expectation) or "I'm cold" (in explanation.) Please refer to the んだ・のだ section for more details.<br />
<br />
=== What is ～んだ (-nda) / What is ～のだ (-noda) ===<br />
<br />
～んだ is a contraction of ～のだ. They are interchangeable, and both can be used in polite or casual Japanese. Since the former is more common, using the latter will sound like you are purposefully trying to sound serious, or proper, so I would say it works well in polite Japanese. <br />
<br />
They can follow an い形容詞 (i-adjective) or a verb. If you want to follow a な形容詞(na-adjective) you must include the な(na), please see examples below. Usage should be covered elsewhere, but I'll just say that inserting ん or の suggests one is seeking an explanation (when used in a question) or giving an explanation (when used in a statement.)<br />
<br />
Using ん・の in a question:<br />
<br />
イギリスは、今寒くないんですか Isn't the UK cold now? (Here「ん」demonstrates the speakers interest for the listener's knowledge/explanation.)<br />
<br />
いぎりすは、いまさむくないんですか<br />
<br />
<br />
宿題はもうやったの？ Have you already done your homework? (In casual speech, it generally works well to use の as your question marker.)<br />
<br />
しゅくだいはもうやったの？ <br />
<br />
<br />
Using ん・の in a statement can be to give an explanation, or acknowledge/understand something you didn't before. <br />
<br />
これは、便利なのです。 This useful/convenient. (Here the「の」is saying 'that's why!' in explanation as to why you like or recommend something.)<br />
<br />
これは、べんりなのです。<br />
<br />
<br />
終わったんだ It's finished/over (Here ん describes the speaker's realization at that very moment that something has finished.)<br />
<br />
=== Conditionals: what's the difference? ===<br />
<br />
In English, we use the word "if" a lot; some of our conditionals ("were I to.." "should you..") are falling out of use. By contrast, Japanese has a number of conditionals that are ''all used frequently'', and understanding the way to distinguish the use of these is a challenge all Japanese learners will face. Despite having distinct nuances, there are times when more than one conditional will fit a given sentence, which is probably one of the causes of confusion.<br />
<br />
'''たら/tara'''<br />
<br />
<br />
'''ば/ba'''<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
'''と/to'''<br />
<br />
と is placed after a verb in dictionary/plain form. For example, 見ると (if/when I look.) Whatever follows next, と tells us that it follows (or followed) succinctly, smoothly, directly. This can be thought of as 'cause and effect.'<br />
写真を見ると、彼を思い出します。When I look at the photo, I remember him. しゃしんをみると、かれをおもいだします。<br />
<br />
It is often used in the context of giving advice. In such a context, it is clearly more assertive than ば or たら。<br />
<br />
それを持っていくと便利ですよ If you take that with you, it's useful! (underlying nuance: you really ought to take it!)<br />
<br />
それをもっていくとべんりですよ<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
暖かいうちに食べるといい It's better if you eat it whilst it's hot (underlying nuance: I really recommend you eat it whilst it's hot)<br />
<br />
あたたかいうちにたべるといい<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
*Advanced: と following the volitional form of a verb will create the meaning 'even if' (usually expressed with verb stem + ても) I feel that using と in this way has a sense of poetry or emotion.<br />
<br />
何を言われても、気にしない ＞＞＞ 何を言われようと、気にしない<br />
<br />
'''もし/moshi'''<br />
<br />
'''なら/nara'''<br />
<br />
Has the nuance of 'provided that.' 'On condition that.' なら directly follows a verb or noun. <br />
<br />
あなたも行くなら、私も行く If you will go, I will go too. (underlying nuance: I'll go too but only if you are)<br />
<br />
あなたもいくなら、わたしもいく<br />
<br />
<br />
君ならできる If it's you, you can do it (underlying nuance: If anyone can do it, you can)<br />
<br />
きみならできる<br />
<br />
=== ている VS てる ===<br />
<br />
Leaving out the い does not change the meaning, てる originated from fast colloquial speech patterns (in the same way as people say 'gonna' for 'going.'<br />
<br />
本を読んでいる ＞＞＞本を読んでる<br />
<br />
汗をかいている ＞＞＞ 汗をかいてる</div>Ongakukahttp://thejapanesepage.com/w/index.php?title=Japanese_Grammar_FAQJapanese Grammar FAQ2013-02-15T08:30:38Z<p>Ongakuka: /* だ(da) VS です(desu) */</p>
<hr />
<div>I began writing this FAQ when I was still at a relatively early stage of learning Japanese. A fair few years must have past... so now I intend to write this thing up from start to finish.<br />
<br />
For the most part, I'll be referencing grammar questions that arose in the thejapanesepage.com 's forums. Any recommendations or personal queries? Feel free to send me a PM. I want to arrange these grammar questions starting with general/common questions, and gradually getting more specific and uncommon. I will try and answer them as concisely as possible. Anyone is welcome to make improvements (or corrections!) but I appreciate your asking first.<br />
<br />
That said, Yoroshiku!<br />
<br />
<br />
=== だ(da) VS です(desu) ===<br />
<br />
The copula だ・です is used to finalize a statement. They mean the same thing, except that です is polite and, like any polite Japanese, is usually prioritized when speaking to anyone outside of friends and family. The extremely polite form is でございます (de gozaimasu)<br />
<br />
Other forms of this word include である (de aru) which is used in formal or academic text/speech. It sounds very certain and sometimes even proud - like the title of Natsume Soseki's book: 我輩は猫である "I am a Cat." The Samurai-esque alternative is でござる (de gozaru).<br />
<br />
<br />
=== Can I use か(ka) after だ(da)? ===<br />
<br />
When asking a question in polite Japanese, your sentence will often end in 「ですか。」However, even though ですis a polite form of だ, Japanese people do not say だか, which actually gives off a distinct country-bumpkin feel. Questions in casual speech are best ended with the particle の (refer to the んだ・のだ section)<br />
<br />
It should also be noted that だ should not follow an i-adjective （「い形容詞」）or a verb.<br />
<br />
寒いだね X 寒いね ０<br />
<br />
さむいだね X さむいね ０<br />
<br />
On the other hand, verbs/i-adjectives can be joined to だ with ん/の but the meaning will be affected. For example:<br />
<br />
寒い ０<br />
<br />
寒いんだ ０ <br />
<br />
The first sentence means "It's (or "I'm") cold." The second sentence could mean "Oh it's cold" (contrary to my expectation) or "I'm cold" (in explanation.) Please refer to the んだ・のだ section for more details.<br />
<br />
=== What is ～んだ (-nda) / What is ～のだ (-noda) ===<br />
<br />
～んだ is a contraction of ～のだ. They are interchangeable, and both can be used in polite or casual Japanese. Since the former is more common, using the latter will sound like you are purposefully trying to sound serious, or proper, so I would say it works well in polite Japanese. <br />
<br />
They can follow an い形容詞 (i-adjective) or a verb. If you want to follow a な形容詞(na-adjective) you must include the な(na), please see examples below. Usage should be covered elsewhere, but I'll just say that inserting ん or の suggests one is seeking an explanation (when used in a question) or giving an explanation (when used in a statement.)<br />
<br />
Using ん・の in a question:<br />
<br />
イギリスは、今寒くないんですか Isn't the UK cold now? (Here「ん」demonstrates the speakers interest for the listener's knowledge/explanation.)<br />
<br />
いぎりすは、いまさむくないんですか<br />
<br />
<br />
宿題はもうやったの？ Have you already done your homework? (In casual speech, it generally works well to use の as your question marker.)<br />
<br />
しゅくだいはもうやったの？ <br />
<br />
<br />
Using ん・の in a statement: <br />
<br />
これは、便利なのです。 This useful/convenient. (Here the「の」is saying 'that's why!' in explanation as to why you like or recommend something.)<br />
<br />
これは、べんりなのです。<br />
<br />
=== Conditionals: what's the difference? ===<br />
<br />
In English, we use the word "if" a lot; some of our conditionals ("were I to.." "should you..") are falling out of use. By contrast, Japanese has a number of conditionals that are ''all used frequently'', and understanding the way to distinguish the use of these is a challenge all Japanese learners will face. Despite having distinct nuances, there are times when more than one conditional will fit a given sentence, which is probably one of the causes of confusion.<br />
<br />
'''たら/tara'''<br />
<br />
<br />
'''ば/ba'''<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
'''と/to'''<br />
<br />
と is placed after a verb in dictionary/plain form. For example, 見ると (if/when I look.) Whatever follows next, と tells us that it follows (or followed) succinctly, smoothly, directly. This can be thought of as 'cause and effect.'<br />
写真を見ると、彼を思い出します。When I look at the photo, I remember him. しゃしんをみると、かれをおもいだします。<br />
<br />
It is often used in the context of giving advice. In such a context, it is clearly more assertive than ば or たら。<br />
<br />
それを持っていくと便利ですよ If you take that with you, it's useful! (underlying nuance: you really ought to take it!)<br />
<br />
それをもっていくとべんりですよ<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
暖かいうちに食べるといい It's better if you eat it whilst it's hot (underlying nuance: I really recommend you eat it whilst it's hot)<br />
<br />
あたたかいうちにたべるといい<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
*Advanced: と following the volitional form of a verb will create the meaning 'even if' (usually expressed with verb stem + ても) I feel that using と in this way has a sense of poetry or emotion.<br />
<br />
何を言われても、気にしない ＞＞＞ 何を言われようと、気にしない<br />
<br />
'''もし/moshi'''<br />
<br />
'''なら/nara'''<br />
<br />
Has the nuance of 'provided that.' 'On condition that.' なら directly follows a verb or noun. <br />
<br />
あなたも行くなら、私も行く If you will go, I will go too. (underlying nuance: I'll go too but only if you are)<br />
<br />
あなたもいくなら、わたしもいく<br />
<br />
<br />
君ならできる If it's you, you can do it (underlying nuance: If anyone can do it, you can)<br />
<br />
きみならできる<br />
<br />
=== ている VS てる ===<br />
<br />
Leaving out the い does not change the meaning, てる originated from fast colloquial speech patterns (in the same way as people say 'gonna' for 'going.'<br />
<br />
本を読んでいる ＞＞＞本を読んでる<br />
<br />
汗をかいている ＞＞＞ 汗をかいてる</div>Ongakukahttp://thejapanesepage.com/w/index.php?title=Japanese_Grammar_FAQJapanese Grammar FAQ2013-02-14T09:57:58Z<p>Ongakuka: /* What is ～んだ (-nda) / What is ～のだ (-noda) */</p>
<hr />
<div>I began writing this FAQ when I was still at a relatively early stage of learning Japanese. A fair few years must have past... so now I intend to write this thing up from start to finish.<br />
<br />
For the most part, I'll be referencing grammar questions that arose in the thejapanesepage.com 's forums. Any recommendations or personal queries? Feel free to send me a PM. I want to arrange these grammar questions starting with general/common questions, and gradually getting more specific and uncommon. I will try and answer them as concisely as possible. Anyone is welcome to make improvements (or corrections!) but I appreciate your asking first.<br />
<br />
That said, Yoroshiku!<br />
<br />
<br />
=== だ(da) VS です(desu) ===<br />
<br />
The copula だ・です is used to finalize a statement. They mean the same thing, except that です is polite and, like any polite Japanese, is usually prioritized when speaking to anyone outside of friends and family. The extremely polite form is でございます (de gozaimasu)<br />
<br />
Other forms of this word include である (de aru) which is used in formal or academic text/speech. It sounds very certain and sometimes even proud - like the title of Natsume Soseki's book: 我輩は猫である "I am a Cat." The Samurai-esque alternative is でござる (de gozaru). <br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
=== What is ～んだ (-nda) / What is ～のだ (-noda) ===<br />
<br />
～んだ is a contraction of ～のだ. They are interchangeable, and both can be used in polite or casual Japanese. Since the former is more common, using the latter will sound like you are purposefully trying to sound serious, or proper, so I would say it works well in polite Japanese. <br />
<br />
They can follow an い形容詞 (i-adjective) or a verb. If you want to follow a な形容詞(na-adjective) you must include the な(na), please see examples below. Usage should be covered elsewhere, but I'll just say that inserting ん or の suggests one is seeking an explanation (when used in a question) or giving an explanation (when used in a statement.)<br />
<br />
Using ん・の in a question:<br />
<br />
イギリスは、今寒くないんですか Isn't the UK cold now? (Here「ん」demonstrates the speakers interest for the listener's knowledge/explanation.)<br />
<br />
いぎりすは、いまさむくないんですか<br />
<br />
<br />
宿題はもうやったの？ Have you already done your homework? (In casual speech, it generally works well to use の as your question marker.)<br />
<br />
しゅくだいはもうやったの？ <br />
<br />
<br />
Using ん・の in a statement: <br />
<br />
これは、便利なのです。 This useful/convenient. (Here the「の」is saying 'that's why!' in explanation as to why you like or recommend something.)<br />
<br />
これは、べんりなのです。<br />
<br />
=== Conditionals: what's the difference? ===<br />
<br />
In English, we use the word "if" a lot; some of our conditionals ("were I to.." "should you..") are falling out of use. By contrast, Japanese has a number of conditionals that are ''all used frequently'', and understanding the way to distinguish the use of these is a challenge all Japanese learners will face. Despite having distinct nuances, there are times when more than one conditional will fit a given sentence, which is probably one of the causes of confusion.<br />
<br />
'''たら/tara'''<br />
<br />
<br />
'''ば/ba'''<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
'''と/to'''<br />
<br />
と is placed after a verb in dictionary/plain form. For example, 見ると (if/when I look.) Whatever follows next, と tells us that it follows (or followed) succinctly, smoothly, directly. This can be thought of as 'cause and effect.'<br />
写真を見ると、彼を思い出します。When I look at the photo, I remember him. しゃしんをみると、かれをおもいだします。<br />
<br />
It is often used in the context of giving advice. In such a context, it is clearly more assertive than ば or たら。<br />
<br />
それを持っていくと便利ですよ If you take that with you, it's useful! (underlying nuance: you really ought to take it!)<br />
<br />
それをもっていくとべんりですよ<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
暖かいうちに食べるといい It's better if you eat it whilst it's hot (underlying nuance: I really recommend you eat it whilst it's hot)<br />
<br />
あたたかいうちにたべるといい<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
*Advanced: と following the volitional form of a verb will create the meaning 'even if' (usually expressed with verb stem + ても) I feel that using と in this way has a sense of poetry or emotion.<br />
<br />
何を言われても、気にしない ＞＞＞ 何を言われようと、気にしない<br />
<br />
'''もし/moshi'''<br />
<br />
'''なら/nara'''<br />
<br />
Has the nuance of 'provided that.' 'On condition that.' なら directly follows a verb or noun. <br />
<br />
あなたも行くなら、私も行く If you will go, I will go too. (underlying nuance: I'll go too but only if you are)<br />
<br />
あなたもいくなら、わたしもいく<br />
<br />
<br />
君ならできる If it's you, you can do it (underlying nuance: If anyone can do it, you can)<br />
<br />
きみならできる<br />
<br />
=== ている VS てる ===<br />
<br />
Leaving out the い does not change the meaning, てる originated from fast colloquial speech patterns (in the same way as people say 'gonna' for 'going.'<br />
<br />
本を読んでいる ＞＞＞本を読んでる<br />
<br />
汗をかいている ＞＞＞ 汗をかいてる</div>Ongakukahttp://thejapanesepage.com/w/index.php?title=Japanese_Grammar_FAQJapanese Grammar FAQ2013-02-14T09:25:50Z<p>Ongakuka: /* だ(da) VS です(desu) */</p>
<hr />
<div>I began writing this FAQ when I was still at a relatively early stage of learning Japanese. A fair few years must have past... so now I intend to write this thing up from start to finish.<br />
<br />
For the most part, I'll be referencing grammar questions that arose in the thejapanesepage.com 's forums. Any recommendations or personal queries? Feel free to send me a PM. I want to arrange these grammar questions starting with general/common questions, and gradually getting more specific and uncommon. I will try and answer them as concisely as possible. Anyone is welcome to make improvements (or corrections!) but I appreciate your asking first.<br />
<br />
That said, Yoroshiku!<br />
<br />
<br />
=== だ(da) VS です(desu) ===<br />
<br />
The copula だ・です is used to finalize a statement. They mean the same thing, except that です is polite and, like any polite Japanese, is usually prioritized when speaking to anyone outside of friends and family. The extremely polite form is でございます (de gozaimasu)<br />
<br />
Other forms of this word include である (de aru) which is used in formal or academic text/speech. It sounds very certain and sometimes even proud - like the title of Natsume Soseki's book: 我輩は猫である "I am a Cat." The Samurai-esque alternative is でござる (de gozaru). <br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
=== What is ～んだ (-nda) / What is ～のだ (-noda) ===<br />
<br />
～んだ is a contraction of ～のだ. They can follow an い形容詞 (i-adjective) or a verb. If you want to follow a な形容詞(na-adjective) you must include the な(na), please see examples below. Usage should be covered elsewhere, but I'll just say that inserting ん or の suggests one is seeking an explanation (when used in a question) or giving an explanation (when used in a statement.)<br />
<br />
Using ん・の in a question:<br />
<br />
イギリスは、今寒くないんですか Isn't the UK cold now? (Here「ん」demonstrates the speakers interest for the listener's knowledge/explanation.)<br />
<br />
いぎりすは、いまさむくないんですか<br />
<br />
<br />
宿題はもうやったの？ Have you already done your homework? (In casual speech, it generally works well to use の as your question marker.)<br />
<br />
しゅくだいはもうやったの？ <br />
<br />
Using ん・の in a statement: <br />
<br />
これは、便利なのです。 This useful/convenient. (Here the「の」is saying 'that's why!' in explanation as to why you like or recommend something.)<br />
<br />
=== Conditionals: what's the difference? ===<br />
<br />
In English, we use the word "if" a lot; some of our conditionals ("were I to.." "should you..") are falling out of use. By contrast, Japanese has a number of conditionals that are ''all used frequently'', and understanding the way to distinguish the use of these is a challenge all Japanese learners will face. Despite having distinct nuances, there are times when more than one conditional will fit a given sentence, which is probably one of the causes of confusion.<br />
<br />
'''たら/tara'''<br />
<br />
<br />
'''ば/ba'''<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
'''と/to'''<br />
<br />
と is placed after a verb in dictionary/plain form. For example, 見ると (if/when I look.) Whatever follows next, と tells us that it follows (or followed) succinctly, smoothly, directly. This can be thought of as 'cause and effect.'<br />
写真を見ると、彼を思い出します。When I look at the photo, I remember him. しゃしんをみると、かれをおもいだします。<br />
<br />
It is often used in the context of giving advice. In such a context, it is clearly more assertive than ば or たら。<br />
<br />
それを持っていくと便利ですよ If you take that with you, it's useful! (underlying nuance: you really ought to take it!)<br />
<br />
それをもっていくとべんりですよ<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
暖かいうちに食べるといい It's better if you eat it whilst it's hot (underlying nuance: I really recommend you eat it whilst it's hot)<br />
<br />
あたたかいうちにたべるといい<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
*Advanced: と following the volitional form of a verb will create the meaning 'even if' (usually expressed with verb stem + ても) I feel that using と in this way has a sense of poetry or emotion.<br />
<br />
何を言われても、気にしない ＞＞＞ 何を言われようと、気にしない<br />
<br />
'''もし/moshi'''<br />
<br />
'''なら/nara'''<br />
<br />
Has the nuance of 'provided that.' 'On condition that.' なら directly follows a verb or noun. <br />
<br />
あなたも行くなら、私も行く If you will go, I will go too. (underlying nuance: I'll go too but only if you are)<br />
<br />
あなたもいくなら、わたしもいく<br />
<br />
<br />
君ならできる If it's you, you can do it (underlying nuance: If anyone can do it, you can)<br />
<br />
きみならできる<br />
<br />
=== ている VS てる ===<br />
<br />
Leaving out the い does not change the meaning, てる originated from fast colloquial speech patterns (in the same way as people say 'gonna' for 'going.'<br />
<br />
本を読んでいる ＞＞＞本を読んでる<br />
<br />
汗をかいている ＞＞＞ 汗をかいてる</div>Ongakukahttp://thejapanesepage.com/w/index.php?title=Japanese_Grammar_FAQJapanese Grammar FAQ2013-02-14T09:25:21Z<p>Ongakuka: /* Conditionals: what's the difference? */</p>
<hr />
<div>I began writing this FAQ when I was still at a relatively early stage of learning Japanese. A fair few years must have past... so now I intend to write this thing up from start to finish.<br />
<br />
For the most part, I'll be referencing grammar questions that arose in the thejapanesepage.com 's forums. Any recommendations or personal queries? Feel free to send me a PM. I want to arrange these grammar questions starting with general/common questions, and gradually getting more specific and uncommon. I will try and answer them as concisely as possible. Anyone is welcome to make improvements (or corrections!) but I appreciate your asking first.<br />
<br />
That said, Yoroshiku!<br />
<br />
<br />
=== だ(da) VS です(desu) ===<br />
<br />
The copula だ・です is used to finalize a statement. They mean the same thing, except that です is polite and, like any polite Japanese, is usually prioritized when speaking to anyone outside of friends and family. The extremely polite form is でございます (de gozaimasu)<br />
<br />
Other forms of this word include である (de aru) which is used in formal or academic text/speech. It sounds very certain and sometimes even proud - like the title of Natsume Soseki's book: 我輩は猫である "I am a Cat." The Samurai-esque alternative is でござる (de gozaru). <br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
'''=== What is ～んだ (-nda) / What is ～のだ (-noda) ==='''<br />
<br />
～んだ is a contraction of ～のだ. They can follow an い形容詞 (i-adjective) or a verb. If you want to follow a な形容詞(na-adjective) you must include the な(na), please see examples below. Usage should be covered elsewhere, but I'll just say that inserting ん or の suggests one is seeking an explanation (when used in a question) or giving an explanation (when used in a statement.)<br />
<br />
Using ん・の in a question:<br />
<br />
イギリスは、今寒くないんですか Isn't the UK cold now? (Here「ん」demonstrates the speakers interest for the listener's knowledge/explanation.)<br />
<br />
いぎりすは、いまさむくないんですか<br />
<br />
<br />
宿題はもうやったの？ Have you already done your homework? (In casual speech, it generally works well to use の as your question marker.)<br />
<br />
しゅくだいはもうやったの？ <br />
<br />
Using ん・の in a statement: <br />
<br />
これは、便利なのです。 This useful/convenient. (Here the「の」is saying 'that's why!' in explanation as to why you like or recommend something.)<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
=== Conditionals: what's the difference? ===<br />
<br />
In English, we use the word "if" a lot; some of our conditionals ("were I to.." "should you..") are falling out of use. By contrast, Japanese has a number of conditionals that are ''all used frequently'', and understanding the way to distinguish the use of these is a challenge all Japanese learners will face. Despite having distinct nuances, there are times when more than one conditional will fit a given sentence, which is probably one of the causes of confusion.<br />
<br />
'''たら/tara'''<br />
<br />
<br />
'''ば/ba'''<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
'''と/to'''<br />
<br />
と is placed after a verb in dictionary/plain form. For example, 見ると (if/when I look.) Whatever follows next, と tells us that it follows (or followed) succinctly, smoothly, directly. This can be thought of as 'cause and effect.'<br />
写真を見ると、彼を思い出します。When I look at the photo, I remember him. しゃしんをみると、かれをおもいだします。<br />
<br />
It is often used in the context of giving advice. In such a context, it is clearly more assertive than ば or たら。<br />
<br />
それを持っていくと便利ですよ If you take that with you, it's useful! (underlying nuance: you really ought to take it!)<br />
<br />
それをもっていくとべんりですよ<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
暖かいうちに食べるといい It's better if you eat it whilst it's hot (underlying nuance: I really recommend you eat it whilst it's hot)<br />
<br />
あたたかいうちにたべるといい<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
*Advanced: と following the volitional form of a verb will create the meaning 'even if' (usually expressed with verb stem + ても) I feel that using と in this way has a sense of poetry or emotion.<br />
<br />
何を言われても、気にしない ＞＞＞ 何を言われようと、気にしない<br />
<br />
'''もし/moshi'''<br />
<br />
'''なら/nara'''<br />
<br />
Has the nuance of 'provided that.' 'On condition that.' なら directly follows a verb or noun. <br />
<br />
あなたも行くなら、私も行く If you will go, I will go too. (underlying nuance: I'll go too but only if you are)<br />
<br />
あなたもいくなら、わたしもいく<br />
<br />
<br />
君ならできる If it's you, you can do it (underlying nuance: If anyone can do it, you can)<br />
<br />
きみならできる<br />
<br />
=== ている VS てる ===<br />
<br />
Leaving out the い does not change the meaning, てる originated from fast colloquial speech patterns (in the same way as people say 'gonna' for 'going.'<br />
<br />
本を読んでいる ＞＞＞本を読んでる<br />
<br />
汗をかいている ＞＞＞ 汗をかいてる</div>Ongakukahttp://thejapanesepage.com/w/index.php?title=Japanese_Grammar_FAQJapanese Grammar FAQ2013-02-13T11:06:49Z<p>Ongakuka: /* Conditionals: what's the difference? */</p>
<hr />
<div>I began writing this FAQ when I was still at a relatively early stage of learning Japanese. A fair few years must have past... so now I intend to write this thing up from start to finish.<br />
<br />
For the most part, I'll be referencing grammar questions that arose in the thejapanesepage.com 's forums. Any recommendations or personal queries? Feel free to send me a PM. I want to arrange these grammar questions starting with general/common questions, and gradually getting more specific and uncommon. I will try and answer them as concisely as possible. Anyone is welcome to make improvements (or corrections!) but I appreciate your asking first.<br />
<br />
That said, Yoroshiku!<br />
<br />
<br />
=== Conditionals: what's the difference? ===<br />
<br />
In English, we use the word "if" a lot; some of our conditionals ("were I to.." "should you..") are falling out of use. By contrast, Japanese has a number of conditionals that are ''all used frequently'', and understanding the way to distinguish the use of these is a challenge all Japanese learners will face. Despite having distinct nuances, there are times when more than one conditional will fit a given sentence, which is probably one of the causes of confusion.<br />
<br />
'''たら/tara'''<br />
<br />
<br />
'''ば/ba'''<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
'''と/to'''<br />
<br />
と is placed after a verb in dictionary/plain form. For example, 見ると (if/when I look.) Whatever follows next, と tells us that it follows (or followed) succinctly, smoothly, directly. This can be thought of as 'cause and effect.'<br />
写真を見ると、彼を思い出します。When I look at the photo, I remember him. しゃしんをみると、かれをおもいだします。<br />
<br />
It is often used in the context of giving advice. In such a context, it is clearly more assertive than ば or たら。<br />
<br />
それを持っていくと便利ですよ If you take that with you, it's useful! (underlying nuance: you really ought to take it!)<br />
<br />
それをもっていくとべんりですよ<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
暖かいうちに食べるといい It's better if you eat it whilst it's hot (underlying nuance: I really recommend you eat it whilst it's hot)<br />
<br />
あたたかいうちにたべるといい<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
*Advanced: と following the volitional form of a verb will create the meaning 'even if' (usually expressed with verb stem + ても) I feel that using と in this way has a sense of poetry or emotion.<br />
<br />
何を言われても、気にしない ＞＞＞ 何を言われようと、気にしない<br />
<br />
'''もし/moshi'''<br />
<br />
'''なら/nara'''<br />
<br />
Has the nuance of 'provided that.' 'On condition that.' なら directly follows a verb or noun. <br />
<br />
あなたも行くなら、私も行く If you will go, I will go too. (underlying nuance: I'll go too but only if you are)<br />
<br />
あなたもいくなら、わたしもいく<br />
<br />
<br />
君ならできる If it's you, you can do it (underlying nuance: If anyone can do it, you can)<br />
<br />
きみならできる<br />
<br />
=== ている VS てる ===<br />
<br />
Leaving out the い does not change the meaning, てる originated from fast colloquial speech patterns (in the same way as people say 'gonna' for 'going.'<br />
<br />
本を読んでいる ＞＞＞本を読んでる<br />
<br />
汗をかいている ＞＞＞ 汗をかいてる</div>Ongakukahttp://thejapanesepage.com/w/index.php?title=Japanese_Grammar_FAQJapanese Grammar FAQ2013-02-13T11:04:19Z<p>Ongakuka: /* Conditionals: what's the difference? */</p>
<hr />
<div>I began writing this FAQ when I was still at a relatively early stage of learning Japanese. A fair few years must have past... so now I intend to write this thing up from start to finish.<br />
<br />
For the most part, I'll be referencing grammar questions that arose in the thejapanesepage.com 's forums. Any recommendations or personal queries? Feel free to send me a PM. I want to arrange these grammar questions starting with general/common questions, and gradually getting more specific and uncommon. I will try and answer them as concisely as possible. Anyone is welcome to make improvements (or corrections!) but I appreciate your asking first.<br />
<br />
That said, Yoroshiku!<br />
<br />
<br />
=== Conditionals: what's the difference? ===<br />
<br />
In English, we use the word "if" a lot; some of our conditionals ("were I to.." "should you..") are falling out of use. By contrast, Japanese has a number of conditionals that are ''all used frequently'', and understanding the way to distinguish the use of these is a challenge all Japanese learners will face. Despite having distinct nuances, there are times when more than one conditional will fit a given sentence, which is probably one of the causes of confusion.<br />
<br />
'''たら/tara'''<br />
<br />
<br />
'''ば/ba'''<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
'''と/to'''<br />
<br />
と is placed after a verb in dictionary/plain form. For example, 見ると (if/when I look.) Whatever follows next, と tells us that it follows (or followed) succinctly, smoothly, directly. This can be thought of as 'cause and effect.'<br />
写真を見ると、彼を思い出します。When I look at the photo, I remember him. しゃしんをみると、かれをおもいだします。<br />
<br />
It is often used in the context of giving advice. In such a context, it is clearly more assertive than ば or たら。<br />
<br />
それを持っていくと便利ですよ If you take that with you, it's useful! (underlying nuance: you really ought to take it!)<br />
<br />
それをもっていくとべんりですよ<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
暖かいうちに食べるといい It's better if you eat it whilst it's hot (underlying nuance: I really recommend you eat it whilst it's hot)<br />
<br />
あたたかいうちにたべるといい<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
*Advanced: と following the volitional form of a verb will create the meaning 'even if' (usually expressed with verb stem + ても) I feel that using と in this way has a sense of poetry or emotion.<br />
<br />
何を言われても、気にしない ＞＞＞ 何を言われようと、気にしない<br />
<br />
'''もし/moshi'''<br />
<br />
'''なら/nara'''<br />
<br />
Has the nuance of 'provided that.' 'On condition that.' なら directly follows a verb or noun. <br />
<br />
あなたも行くなら、私も行く If you will go, I will go too. (underlying nuance: I'll go too but only if you are)<br />
<br />
あなたもいくなら、わたしもいく<br />
<br />
<br />
君ならできる If it's you, you can do it (underlying nuance: If anyone can do it, you can)<br />
<br />
=== ている VS てる ===<br />
<br />
Leaving out the い does not change the meaning, てる originated from fast colloquial speech patterns (in the same way as people say 'gonna' for 'going.'<br />
<br />
本を読んでいる ＞＞＞本を読んでる<br />
<br />
汗をかいている ＞＞＞ 汗をかいてる</div>Ongakukahttp://thejapanesepage.com/w/index.php?title=Japanese_Grammar_FAQJapanese Grammar FAQ2013-02-13T10:48:47Z<p>Ongakuka: /* Conditionals: what's the difference? */</p>
<hr />
<div>I began writing this FAQ when I was still at a relatively early stage of learning Japanese. A fair few years must have past... so now I intend to write this thing up from start to finish.<br />
<br />
For the most part, I'll be referencing grammar questions that arose in the thejapanesepage.com 's forums. Any recommendations or personal queries? Feel free to send me a PM. I want to arrange these grammar questions starting with general/common questions, and gradually getting more specific and uncommon. I will try and answer them as concisely as possible. Anyone is welcome to make improvements (or corrections!) but I appreciate your asking first.<br />
<br />
That said, Yoroshiku!<br />
<br />
<br />
=== Conditionals: what's the difference? ===<br />
<br />
In English, we use the word "if" a lot; some of our conditionals ("were I to.." "should you..") are falling out of use. By contrast, Japanese has a number of conditionals that are ''all used frequently'', and understanding the way to distinguish the use of these is a challenge all Japanese learners will face. Despite having distinct nuances, there are times when more than one conditional will fit a given sentence, which is probably one of the causes of confusion.<br />
<br />
'''たら/tara'''<br />
<br />
<br />
'''ば/ba'''<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
'''と/to'''<br />
<br />
と is placed after a verb in dictionary/plain form. For example, 見ると (if/when I look.) Whatever follows next, と tells us that it follows (or followed) succinctly, smoothly, directly. This can be thought of as 'cause and effect.'<br />
写真を見ると、彼を思い出します。When I look at the photo, I remember him. しゃしんをみると、かれをおもいだします。<br />
<br />
It is often used in the context of giving advice. In such a context, it is clearly more assertive than ば or たら。<br />
<br />
それを持っていくと便利ですよ If you take that with you, it's useful! (underlying nuance: you really ought to take it!)<br />
<br />
それをもっていくとべんりですよ<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
暖かいうちに食べるといい It's better if you eat it whilst it's hot (underlying nuance: I really recommend you eat it whilst it's hot)<br />
<br />
あたたかいうちにたべるといい<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
*Advanced: と following the volitional form of a verb will create the meaning 'even if' (usually expressed with verb stem + ても) I feel that using と in this way has a sense of poetry or emotion.<br />
<br />
何を言われても、気にしない ＞＞＞ 何を言われようと、気にしない<br />
<br />
'''もし/moshi'''<br />
<br />
'''なら/nara'''<br />
<br />
=== ている VS てる ===<br />
<br />
Leaving out the い does not change the meaning, てる originated from fast colloquial speech patterns (in the same way as people say 'gonna' for 'going.'<br />
<br />
本を読んでいる ＞＞＞本を読んでる<br />
<br />
汗をかいている ＞＞＞ 汗をかいてる</div>Ongakukahttp://thejapanesepage.com/w/index.php?title=Japanese_Grammar_FAQJapanese Grammar FAQ2013-02-13T10:47:35Z<p>Ongakuka: /* Conditionals: what's the difference? */</p>
<hr />
<div>I began writing this FAQ when I was still at a relatively early stage of learning Japanese. A fair few years must have past... so now I intend to write this thing up from start to finish.<br />
<br />
For the most part, I'll be referencing grammar questions that arose in the thejapanesepage.com 's forums. Any recommendations or personal queries? Feel free to send me a PM. I want to arrange these grammar questions starting with general/common questions, and gradually getting more specific and uncommon. I will try and answer them as concisely as possible. Anyone is welcome to make improvements (or corrections!) but I appreciate your asking first.<br />
<br />
That said, Yoroshiku!<br />
<br />
<br />
=== Conditionals: what's the difference? ===<br />
<br />
In English, we use the word "if" a lot; some of our conditionals ("were I to.." "should you..") are falling out of use. Japanese has a number of conditionals that are all used frequently, and understanding the way to distinguish the use of these is a challenge all Japanese learners will face. Despite having distinct nuances, there are times when more than one conditional will fit a given sentence, which is probably one of the causes of confusion.<br />
<br />
'''たら/tara'''<br />
<br />
<br />
'''ば/ba'''<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
'''と/to'''<br />
<br />
と is placed after a verb in dictionary/plain form. For example, 見ると (if/when I look.) Whatever follows next, と tells us that it follows (or followed) succinctly, smoothly, directly. This can be thought of as 'cause and effect.'<br />
写真を見ると、彼を思い出します。When I look at the photo, I remember him. しゃしんをみると、かれをおもいだします。<br />
<br />
It is often used in the context of giving advice. In such a context, it is clearly more assertive than ば or たら。<br />
<br />
それを持っていくと便利ですよ If you take that with you, it's useful! (underlying nuance: you really ought to take it!)<br />
<br />
それをもっていくとべんりですよ<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
暖かいうちに食べるといい It's better if you eat it whilst it's hot (underlying nuance: I really recommend you eat it whilst it's hot)<br />
<br />
あたたかいうちにたべるといい<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
*Advanced: と following the volitional form of a verb will create the meaning 'even if' (usually expressed with verb stem + ても) I feel that using と in this way has a sense of poetry or emotion.<br />
<br />
何を言われても、気にしない ＞＞＞ 何を言われようと、気にしない<br />
<br />
'''もし/moshi'''<br />
<br />
'''なら/nara'''<br />
<br />
<br />
=== ている VS てる ===<br />
<br />
Leaving out the い does not change the meaning, てる originated from fast colloquial speech patterns (in the same way as people say 'gonna' for 'going.'<br />
<br />
本を読んでいる ＞＞＞本を読んでる<br />
<br />
汗をかいている ＞＞＞ 汗をかいてる</div>Ongakukahttp://thejapanesepage.com/w/index.php?title=Japanese_Grammar_FAQJapanese Grammar FAQ2013-02-13T10:47:17Z<p>Ongakuka: /* ている VS てる */</p>
<hr />
<div>I began writing this FAQ when I was still at a relatively early stage of learning Japanese. A fair few years must have past... so now I intend to write this thing up from start to finish.<br />
<br />
For the most part, I'll be referencing grammar questions that arose in the thejapanesepage.com 's forums. Any recommendations or personal queries? Feel free to send me a PM. I want to arrange these grammar questions starting with general/common questions, and gradually getting more specific and uncommon. I will try and answer them as concisely as possible. Anyone is welcome to make improvements (or corrections!) but I appreciate your asking first.<br />
<br />
That said, Yoroshiku!<br />
<br />
<br />
=== Conditionals: what's the difference? ===<br />
<br />
In English, we use the word "if" a lot; some of our conditionals ("were I to.." "should you..") are falling out of use. Japanese has a number of conditionals that are all used frequently, and understanding the way to distinguish the use of these is a challenge all Japanese learners will face. Despite having distinct nuances, there are times when more than one conditional will fit a given sentence, which is probably one of the causes of confusion.<br />
<br />
'''たら/tara'''<br />
<br />
<br />
'''ば/ba'''<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
'''と/to'''<br />
<br />
と is placed after a verb in dictionary/plain form. For example, 見ると (if/when I look.) Whatever follows next, と tells us that it follows (or followed) succinctly, smoothly, directly. This can be thought of as 'cause and effect.'<br />
写真を見ると、彼を思い出します。When I look at the photo, I remember him. しゃしんをみると、かれをおもいだします。<br />
<br />
It is often used in the context of giving advice. In such a context, it is clearly more assertive than ば or たら。<br />
<br />
それを持っていくと便利ですよ If you take that with you, it's useful! (underlying nuance: you really ought to take it!)<br />
<br />
それをもっていくとべんりですよ<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
暖かいうちに食べるといい It's better if you eat it whilst it's hot (underlying nuance: I really recommend you eat it whilst it's hot)<br />
<br />
あたたかいうちにたべるといい<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
*Advanced: と following the volitional form of a verb will create the meaning 'even if' (usually expressed with verb stem + ても) I feel that using と in this way has a sense of poetry or emotion.<br />
<br />
何を言われても、気にしない ＞＞＞ 何を言われようと、気にしない<br />
<br />
'''もし/moshi'''<br />
<br />
'''なら/nara'''</div>Ongakukahttp://thejapanesepage.com/w/index.php?title=Japanese_Grammar_FAQJapanese Grammar FAQ2013-02-13T10:46:29Z<p>Ongakuka: /* ている VS てる */</p>
<hr />
<div>I began writing this FAQ when I was still at a relatively early stage of learning Japanese. A fair few years must have past... so now I intend to write this thing up from start to finish.<br />
<br />
For the most part, I'll be referencing grammar questions that arose in the thejapanesepage.com 's forums. Any recommendations or personal queries? Feel free to send me a PM. I want to arrange these grammar questions starting with general/common questions, and gradually getting more specific and uncommon. I will try and answer them as concisely as possible. Anyone is welcome to make improvements (or corrections!) but I appreciate your asking first.<br />
<br />
That said, Yoroshiku!<br />
<br />
<br />
=== ている VS てる ===<br />
<br />
Leaving out the い does not change the meaning, てる originated from fast colloquial speech patterns (in the same way as people say 'gonna' for 'going.'<br />
<br />
本を読んでいる ＞＞＞本を読んでる<br />
<br />
汗をかいている ＞＞＞ 汗をかいてる<br />
<br />
=== Conditionals: what's the difference? ===<br />
<br />
In English, we use the word "if" a lot; some of our conditionals ("were I to.." "should you..") are falling out of use. Japanese has a number of conditionals that are all used frequently, and understanding the way to distinguish the use of these is a challenge all Japanese learners will face. Despite having distinct nuances, there are times when more than one conditional will fit a given sentence, which is probably one of the causes of confusion.<br />
<br />
'''たら/tara'''<br />
<br />
<br />
'''ば/ba'''<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
'''と/to'''<br />
<br />
と is placed after a verb in dictionary/plain form. For example, 見ると (if/when I look.) Whatever follows next, と tells us that it follows (or followed) succinctly, smoothly, directly. This can be thought of as 'cause and effect.'<br />
写真を見ると、彼を思い出します。When I look at the photo, I remember him. しゃしんをみると、かれをおもいだします。<br />
<br />
It is often used in the context of giving advice. In such a context, it is clearly more assertive than ば or たら。<br />
<br />
それを持っていくと便利ですよ If you take that with you, it's useful! (underlying nuance: you really ought to take it!)<br />
<br />
それをもっていくとべんりですよ<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
暖かいうちに食べるといい It's better if you eat it whilst it's hot (underlying nuance: I really recommend you eat it whilst it's hot)<br />
<br />
あたたかいうちにたべるといい<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
*Advanced: と following the volitional form of a verb will create the meaning 'even if' (usually expressed with verb stem + ても) I feel that using と in this way has a sense of poetry or emotion.<br />
<br />
何を言われても、気にしない ＞＞＞ 何を言われようと、気にしない<br />
<br />
'''もし/moshi'''<br />
<br />
'''なら/nara'''</div>Ongakukahttp://thejapanesepage.com/w/index.php?title=Japanese_Grammar_FAQJapanese Grammar FAQ2013-02-13T10:44:35Z<p>Ongakuka: /* Conditionals: what's the difference? */</p>
<hr />
<div>I began writing this FAQ when I was still at a relatively early stage of learning Japanese. A fair few years must have past... so now I intend to write this thing up from start to finish.<br />
<br />
For the most part, I'll be referencing grammar questions that arose in the thejapanesepage.com 's forums. Any recommendations or personal queries? Feel free to send me a PM. I want to arrange these grammar questions starting with general/common questions, and gradually getting more specific and uncommon. I will try and answer them as concisely as possible. Anyone is welcome to make improvements (or corrections!) but I appreciate your asking first.<br />
<br />
That said, Yoroshiku!<br />
<br />
<br />
=== ている VS てる ===<br />
<br />
Leaving out the い does not change the meaning, てる originated from fast colloquial speech patterns (in the same way as people say 'gonna' for 'going.'<br />
<br />
本を読んでいる ＞＞＞本を読んでる<br />
汗をかいている ＞＞＞ 汗をかいてる<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
=== Conditionals: what's the difference? ===<br />
<br />
In English, we use the word "if" a lot; some of our conditionals ("were I to.." "should you..") are falling out of use. Japanese has a number of conditionals that are all used frequently, and understanding the way to distinguish the use of these is a challenge all Japanese learners will face. Despite having distinct nuances, there are times when more than one conditional will fit a given sentence, which is probably one of the causes of confusion.<br />
<br />
'''たら/tara'''<br />
<br />
<br />
'''ば/ba'''<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
'''と/to'''<br />
<br />
と is placed after a verb in dictionary/plain form. For example, 見ると (if/when I look.) Whatever follows next, と tells us that it follows (or followed) succinctly, smoothly, directly. This can be thought of as 'cause and effect.'<br />
写真を見ると、彼を思い出します。When I look at the photo, I remember him. しゃしんをみると、かれをおもいだします。<br />
<br />
It is often used in the context of giving advice. In such a context, it is clearly more assertive than ば or たら。<br />
<br />
それを持っていくと便利ですよ If you take that with you, it's useful! (underlying nuance: you really ought to take it!)<br />
<br />
それをもっていくとべんりですよ<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
暖かいうちに食べるといい It's better if you eat it whilst it's hot (underlying nuance: I really recommend you eat it whilst it's hot)<br />
<br />
あたたかいうちにたべるといい<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
*Advanced: と following the volitional form of a verb will create the meaning 'even if' (usually expressed with verb stem + ても) I feel that using と in this way has a sense of poetry or emotion.<br />
<br />
何を言われても、気にしない ＞＞＞ 何を言われようと、気にしない<br />
<br />
'''もし/moshi'''<br />
<br />
'''なら/nara'''</div>Ongakukahttp://thejapanesepage.com/w/index.php?title=Japanese_Grammar_FAQJapanese Grammar FAQ2013-02-13T10:24:10Z<p>Ongakuka: /* Conditionals: what's the difference? */</p>
<hr />
<div>I began writing this FAQ when I was still at a relatively early stage of learning Japanese. A fair few years must have past... so now I intend to write this thing up from start to finish.<br />
<br />
For the most part, I'll be referencing grammar questions that arose in the thejapanesepage.com 's forums. Any recommendations or personal queries? Feel free to send me a PM. I want to arrange these grammar questions starting with general/common questions, and gradually getting more specific and uncommon. I will try and answer them as concisely as possible. Anyone is welcome to make improvements (or corrections!) but I appreciate your asking first.<br />
<br />
That said, Yoroshiku!<br />
<br />
<br />
=== Conditionals: what's the difference? ===<br />
<br />
In English, we use the word "if" a lot; some of our conditionals ("were I to.." "should you..") are falling out of use. Japanese has a number of conditionals that are all used frequently, and understanding the way to distinguish the use of these is a challenge all Japanese learners will face. Despite having distinct nuances, there are times when more than one conditional will fit a given sentence, which is probably one of the causes of confusion.<br />
<br />
'''たら/tara'''<br />
<br />
<br />
'''ば/ba'''<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
'''と/to'''<br />
<br />
と is placed after a verb in dictionary/plain form. For example, 見ると (if/when I look.) Whatever follows next, と tells us that it follows (or followed) succinctly, smoothly, directly. This can be thought of as 'cause and effect.'<br />
写真を見ると、彼を思い出します。When I look at the photo, I remember him. しゃしんをみると、かれをおもいだします。<br />
<br />
It is often used in the context of giving advice. In such a context, it is clearly more assertive than ば or たら。<br />
<br />
それを持っていくと便利ですよ If you take that with you, it's useful! (underlying nuance: you really ought to take it!)<br />
<br />
それをもっていくとべんりですよ<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
暖かいうちに食べるといい It's better if you eat it whilst it's hot (underlying nuance: I really recommend you eat it whilst it's hot)<br />
<br />
あたたかいうちにたべるといい<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
*Advanced: と following the volitional form of a verb will create the meaning 'even if' (usually expressed with verb stem + ても) I feel that using と in this way has a sense of poetry or emotion.<br />
<br />
何を言われても、気にしない ＞＞＞ 何を言われようと、気にしない<br />
<br />
'''もし/moshi'''<br />
<br />
'''なら/nara'''</div>Ongakukahttp://thejapanesepage.com/w/index.php?title=Japanese_Grammar_FAQJapanese Grammar FAQ2013-02-13T10:09:55Z<p>Ongakuka: /* Conditionals: what's the difference? */</p>
<hr />
<div>I began writing this FAQ when I was still at a relatively early stage of learning Japanese. A fair few years must have past... so now I intend to write this thing up from start to finish.<br />
<br />
For the most part, I'll be referencing grammar questions that arose in the thejapanesepage.com 's forums. Any recommendations or personal queries? Feel free to send me a PM. I want to arrange these grammar questions starting with general/common questions, and gradually getting more specific and uncommon. I will try and answer them as concisely as possible. Anyone is welcome to make improvements (or corrections!) but I appreciate your asking first.<br />
<br />
That said, Yoroshiku!<br />
<br />
<br />
=== Conditionals: what's the difference? ===<br />
<br />
In English, we use the word "if" a lot; some of our conditionals ("were I to.." "should you..") are falling out of use. Japanese has a number of conditionals that are all used frequently, and understanding the way to distinguish the use of these is a challenge all Japanese learners will face. Despite having distinct nuances, there are times when more than one conditional will fit a given sentence, which is probably one of the causes of confusion.<br />
<br />
'''たら/tara'''<br />
<br />
'''と/to'''<br />
<br />
と is placed after a verb in dictionary/plain form. For example, 見ると (if/when I look.) Whatever follows next, と tells us that it follows (or followed) succinctly, smoothly, directly. This can be thought of as 'cause and effect.'<br />
写真を見ると、彼を思い出します。When I look at the photo, I remember him. しゃしんをみると、かれをおもいだします。<br />
<br />
It is often used in the context of giving advice. In such a context, it is clearly more assertive than ば or たら。<br />
<br />
それを持っていくと便利ですよ If you take that with you, it's useful! (underlying nuance: you really ought to take it!)<br />
<br />
それをもっていくとべんりですよ<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
暖かいうちに食べるといい It's better if you eat it whilst it's hot (underlying nuance: I really recommend you eat it whilst it's hot)<br />
<br />
あたたかいうちにたべるといい<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
*Advanced: と following the volitional form of a verb will create the meaning 'even if' (usually expressed with verb stem + ても) I feel that using と in this way has a sense of poetry or emotion.<br />
<br />
何を言われても、気にしない ＞＞＞ 何を言われようと、気にしない</div>Ongakukahttp://thejapanesepage.com/w/index.php?title=Japanese_Grammar_FAQJapanese Grammar FAQ2013-02-13T10:08:20Z<p>Ongakuka: /* Conditionals: what's the difference? */</p>
<hr />
<div>I began writing this FAQ when I was still at a relatively early stage of learning Japanese. A fair few years must have past... so now I intend to write this thing up from start to finish.<br />
<br />
For the most part, I'll be referencing grammar questions that arose in the thejapanesepage.com 's forums. Any recommendations or personal queries? Feel free to send me a PM. I want to arrange these grammar questions starting with general/common questions, and gradually getting more specific and uncommon. I will try and answer them as concisely as possible. Anyone is welcome to make improvements (or corrections!) but I appreciate your asking first.<br />
<br />
That said, Yoroshiku!<br />
<br />
<br />
=== Conditionals: what's the difference? ===<br />
<br />
In English, we use the word "if" a lot; some of our conditionals ("were I to.." "should you..") are falling out of use. Japanese has a number of conditionals that are all used frequently, and understanding the way to distinguish the use of these is a challenge all Japanese learners will face. Despite having distinct nuances, there are times when more than one conditional will fit a given sentence, which is probably one of the causes of confusion.<br />
<br />
'''たら/tara'''<br />
<br />
'''と/to'''<br />
<br />
と is placed after a verb in dictionary/plain form. For example, 見ると (if/when I look.) Whatever follows next, と tells us that it follows (or followed) succinctly, smoothly, directly. This can be thought of as 'cause and effect.'<br />
写真を見ると、彼を思い出します。When I look at the photo, I remember him. しゃしんをみると、かれをおもいだします。<br />
<br />
It is often used in the context of giving advice. In such a context, it is clearly more assertive than ば or たら。<br />
<br />
それを持っていくと便利ですよ If you take that with you, it's useful! (underlying nuance: you really ought to take it!)<br />
<br />
それをもっていくとべんりですよ<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
暖かいうちに食べるといい It's better if you eat it whilst it's hot (underlying nuance: I really recommend you eat it whilst it's hot)<br />
<br />
あたたかいうちにたべるといい<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
*Advanced: と following the volitional form of a verb will create the meaning 'even if' (usually expressed with verb stem + ても) I feel that using と in this way has a sense of poetry or emotion.</div>Ongakukahttp://thejapanesepage.com/w/index.php?title=Japanese_Grammar_FAQJapanese Grammar FAQ2013-02-13T09:14:06Z<p>Ongakuka: </p>
<hr />
<div>I began writing this FAQ when I was still at a relatively early stage of learning Japanese. A fair few years must have past... so now I intend to write this thing up from start to finish.<br />
<br />
For the most part, I'll be referencing grammar questions that arose in the thejapanesepage.com 's forums. Any recommendations or personal queries? Feel free to send me a PM. I want to arrange these grammar questions starting with general/common questions, and gradually getting more specific and uncommon. I will try and answer them as concisely as possible. Anyone is welcome to make improvements (or corrections!) but I appreciate your asking first.<br />
<br />
That said, Yoroshiku!<br />
<br />
<br />
=== Conditionals: what's the difference? ===<br />
<br />
In English, we use the word "if" a lot; some of our conditionals ("were I to.." "should you..") are falling out of use. Japanese has a number of conditionals that are all used frequently, and understanding the way to distinguish the use of these is a challenge all Japanese learners will face. Despite having distinct nuances, there are times when more than one conditional will fit a given sentence, which is probably one of the causes of confusion.<br />
<br />
'''たら/tara'''<br />
<br />
'''と/to'''<br />
<br />
と is placed after a verb in dictionary/plain form. For example, 見ると (if/when I look.) Whatever follows next, と tells us that it follows (or followed) succinctly, smoothly, directly. This can be thought of as 'cause and effect.'<br />
写真を見ると、彼を思い出します。When I look at the photo, I remember him. しゃしんをみると、かれをおもいだします。<br />
<br />
It is often used in the context of giving advice. In such a context, it is clearly more assertive than ば or たら。<br />
<br />
それを持っていくと便利ですよ If you take that with you, it's useful! それをもっていくとべんりですよ<br />
(underlying nuance: you really ought to take it!)<br />
<br />
暖かいうちに食べるといい It's better if you eat it whilst it's hot あたたかいうちにたべるといい<br />
(underlying nuance: I really recommend you eat it whilst it's hot)</div>Ongakukahttp://thejapanesepage.com/w/index.php?title=User:OngakukaUser:Ongakuka2013-02-12T12:32:34Z<p>Ongakuka: Blanked the page</p>
<hr />
<div></div>Ongakukahttp://thejapanesepage.com/w/index.php?title=Japanese_Grammar_FAQJapanese Grammar FAQ2013-02-12T12:31:39Z<p>Ongakuka: </p>
<hr />
<div>I began writing this FAQ when I was still at a relatively early stage of learning Japanese. A fair few years must have past... so now I intend to write this thing up from start to finish.<br />
<br />
For the most part, I'll be referencing grammar questions that arose in the thejapanesepage.com 's forums. Any recommendations or personal queries? Feel free to send me a PM. I want to arrange these grammar questions starting with general/common questions, and gradually getting more specific and uncommon. I will try and answer them as concisely as possible. Anyone is welcome to make improvements (or corrections!) but I appreciate your asking first.<br />
<br />
That said, Yoroshiku!</div>Ongakukahttp://thejapanesepage.com/w/index.php?title=Japanese_Grammar_FAQJapanese Grammar FAQ2013-02-12T12:29:25Z<p>Ongakuka: Introduction</p>
<hr />
<div> -I began writing this FAQ when I was still at a relatively early stage of learning Japanese. A fair few years must have past... so now I intend to write this thing up from start to finish.<br />
<br />
-For the most part, I'll be referencing grammar questions that arose in the thejapanesepage.com 's forums. Any recommendations or personal queries? Feel free to send me a PM. I want to arrange these grammar questions starting with general/common questions, and gradually getting more specific and uncommon. I will try and answer them as concisely as possible. Anyone is welcome to make improvements (or corrections!) but I appreciate your asking first.<br />
<br />
That said, Yoroshiku!</div>Ongakukahttp://thejapanesepage.com/w/index.php?title=Japanese_Grammar_FAQJapanese Grammar FAQ2013-02-12T12:15:45Z<p>Ongakuka: </p>
<hr />
<div>Under Construction... *<br />
<br />
Although this is technically a FAQ, most of the contents are not actually frequently asked questions. They are in fact, grammatical problems which have occured to Japanese students in the past- and the aim of this FAQ is to make sure that these problems can be reviewed in a clear simple format by all students of Japanese. Effectively, the [[Japanese Grammar FAQ]] is simillar to a reference library, or an archive. It doesn't teach grammar, it shows examples of problems which have occured in the past relating to Japanese grammar. Hopefully in time this page will expand and provide our community with another excellent resource for studying Japanese.<br />
<br />
-[[User:Ongakuka|Ongakuka]]<br />
<br />
----</div>Ongakukahttp://thejapanesepage.com/w/index.php?title=User:OngakukaUser:Ongakuka2006-08-19T20:53:18Z<p>Ongakuka: </p>
<hr />
<div>Since there is no way anyone would possibly consider reading my profile, I will assume you have accidentally strayed from the page you were reading. Press "back" to return to the page you were reading.<br />
<br />
If that is not the case, please read on. Ongakuka is a Japanese word which I have chosen to represent myself on www.thejapanesepage.com<br />
If anyone has found a problem or mistake in the work I have submitted to WagaWiki, please let me know. If you are confident enough, feel free to edit the article yourself.<br />
Since my interests are orientated around Japan and Japanese language, please do not contact me unless those topics coincide with your own interests. (Contact info located on www.thejapanesepage.com)<br />
I am also happy to answer queries related to saxophone playing.<br />
<br />
ありがとうございます</div>Ongakukahttp://thejapanesepage.com/w/index.php?title=User:OngakukaUser:Ongakuka2006-08-19T20:51:44Z<p>Ongakuka: </p>
<hr />
<div>Since there is no way anyone would possibly consider reading my profile, I will assume you have accidentally strayed from the page you were reading. Press "back" to return to the page you were reading.<br />
<br />
If that is not the case, please read on. Ongakuka is a Japanese word which I have chosen to represent myself on www.thejapanesepage.com<br />
If anyone has found a problem or mistake in the work I have submitted to WagaWiki, please let me know. If you are confident enough, feel free to edit the article yourself.<br />
Since my interests are orientated around Japan and Japanese language, please do not contact me unless those topics coincide with your own interests. I am also happy to answer queries related to saxophone playing.<br />
<br />
ありがとうございます</div>Ongakukahttp://thejapanesepage.com/w/index.php?title=YokattaYokatta2006-08-19T18:10:39Z<p>Ongakuka: </p>
<hr />
<div>Yokatta comes from the adjective 良い(yoi), meaning “good”. It is this adjective’s past conjugation, 良かった (yokatta). In other words, “yokatta” literally means “was good”. <br />
<br />
However, in Japanese “yokatta” is often used as an interjection that can be translated as “I’m so glad”. Take for example this conversation:<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
Now, how could “was good” mean something like “I’m so glad” in Japanese?<br />
<br />
The thing is, a lot of Japanese culture includes simply stating what you see. <br />
<br />
For example:<br />
Ostukaresama - "You're tired!"<br />
<br />
Oyasumi - "You sleep!"<br />
<br />
Ohayou - "It's early!"<br />
<br />
Kawaii - "Cute!"<br />
Oishii - "Tasty!"<br />
<br />
A lot of conversations have this kind of stuff too... Almost like one person tells a story, and the other person just describes their feelings about what they're hearing.<br />
<br />
Anyway, usually when someone explains something good that happened, the other person will say "Yokatta!" just to point out that it's good news for them, or (if it's better news for the other person) to show they're listening and taking an interest in what's being said.<br />
<br />
By the way, “yokatta”, when used as an interjection, is usually written only in hiragana (よかった).<br />
<br />
[http://www.thejapanesepage.com/forum/viewthread.php?forum_id=6&thread_id=3034 Forum Thread on yokatta]<br />
<br />
Here are two examples of よかった in a sentence. In each example, the word is the same, but the nuance is changed due to the nature of the sentence- and that is made clear by the translation:<br />
<br />
東京はとてもよかったです / Tokyo was great. (The general use: "was good")<br />
<br />
A: 犬が買えました。名前はジムです。/ I was able to buy a dog. His name is "Jim"<br />
B: よかったです。 I'm glad to hear it<br />
<br />
The second example shows the interjection form of Yokatta in contrast.</div>Ongakukahttp://thejapanesepage.com/w/index.php?title=YokattaYokatta2006-08-19T18:08:02Z<p>Ongakuka: </p>
<hr />
<div>Yokatta comes from the adjective 良い(yoi), meaning “good”. It is this adjective’s past conjugation, 良かった (yokatta). In other words, “yokatta” literally means “was good”. <br />
<br />
However, in Japanese “yokatta” is often used as an interjection that can be translated as “I’m so glad”. Take for example this conversation:<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
Now, how could “was good” mean something like “I’m so glad” in Japanese?<br />
<br />
The thing is, a lot of Japanese culture includes simply stating what you see. <br />
<br />
For example:<br />
Ostukaresama - "You're tired!"<br />
<br />
Oyasumi - "You sleep!"<br />
<br />
Ohayou - "It's early!"<br />
<br />
Kawaii - "Cute!"<br />
Oishii - "Tasty!"<br />
<br />
A lot of conversations have this kind of stuff too... Almost like one person tells a story, and the other person just describes their feelings about what they're hearing.<br />
<br />
Anyway, usually when someone explains something good that happened, the other person will say "Yokatta!" just to point out that it's good news for them, or (if it's better news for the other person) to show they're listening and taking an interest in what's being said.<br />
<br />
By the way, “yokatta”, when used as an interjection, is usually written only in hiragana (よかった).<br />
<br />
[http://www.thejapanesepage.com/forum/viewthread.php?forum_id=6&thread_id=3034 Forum Thread on yokatta]<br />
<br />
Here are two examples of よかった in a sentence. In each example, the word is the same, but the nuance is changed due to the nature of the sentence- and that is made clear by the translation:<br />
<br />
* 東京はとてもよかったです / Tokyo was great. (The general use: "was good")<br />
<br />
* A: 犬が買えました。名前はジムです。/ I was able to buy a dog. His name is "Jim"<br />
<br />
* B: よかったです。 I'm glad to hear it<br />
<br />
The second example shows the interjection form of Yokatta in contrast.</div>Ongakukahttp://thejapanesepage.com/w/index.php?title=YokattaYokatta2006-08-19T18:01:21Z<p>Ongakuka: </p>
<hr />
<div>Yokatta comes from the adjective 良い(yoi), meaning “good”. It is this adjective’s past conjugation, 良かった (yokatta). In other words, “yokatta” literally means “was good”. <br />
<br />
However, in Japanese “yokatta” is often used as an interjection that can be translated as “I’m so glad”. Take for example this conversation:<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
Now, how could “was good” mean something like “I’m so glad” in Japanese?<br />
<br />
The thing is, a lot of Japanese culture includes simply stating what you see. <br />
<br />
For example:<br />
Ostukaresama - "You're tired!"<br />
<br />
Oyasumi - "You sleep!"<br />
<br />
Ohayou - "It's early!"<br />
<br />
Kawaii - "Cute!"<br />
Oishii - "Tasty!"<br />
<br />
A lot of conversations have this kind of stuff too... Almost like one person tells a story, and the other person just describes their feelings about what they're hearing.<br />
<br />
Anyway, usually when someone explains something good that happened, the other person will say "Yokatta!" just to point out that it's good news for them, or (if it's better news for the other person) to show they're listening and taking an interest in what's being said.<br />
<br />
By the way, “yokatta”, when used as an interjection, is usually written only in hiragana (よかった).<br />
<br />
[http://www.thejapanesepage.com/forum/viewthread.php?forum_id=6&thread_id=3034 Forum Thread on yokatta]<br />
<br />
Here are two examples of よかった in a sentence. In each example, the word is the same, but the nuance is changed due to the nature of the sentence- and that is made clear by the translation:<br />
<br />
* 東京はとてもよかったです / Tokyo was great. (The general use: "was good")<br />
<br />
* A: 犬が買えました。名前はジムです。/ I was able to buy a dog. His name is "Jim"<br />
<br />
B: よかったです。 I'm glad to hear it<br />
<br />
The second example shows the interjection form of Yokatta in contrast.</div>Ongakukahttp://thejapanesepage.com/w/index.php?title=YokattaYokatta2006-08-19T18:00:41Z<p>Ongakuka: </p>
<hr />
<div>Yokatta comes from the adjective 良い(yoi), meaning “good”. It is this adjective’s past conjugation, 良かった (yokatta). In other words, “yokatta” literally means “was good”. <br />
<br />
However, in Japanese “yokatta” is often used as an interjection that can be translated as “I’m so glad”. Take for example this conversation:<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
Now, how could “was good” mean something like “I’m so glad” in Japanese?<br />
<br />
The thing is, a lot of Japanese culture includes simply stating what you see. <br />
<br />
For example:<br />
Ostukaresama - "You're tired!"<br />
<br />
Oyasumi - "You sleep!"<br />
<br />
Ohayou - "It's early!"<br />
<br />
Kawaii - "Cute!"<br />
Oishii - "Tasty!"<br />
<br />
A lot of conversations have this kind of stuff too... Almost like one person tells a story, and the other person just describes their feelings about what they're hearing.<br />
<br />
Anyway, usually when someone explains something good that happened, the other person will say "Yokatta!" just to point out that it's good news for them, or (if it's better news for the other person) to show they're listening and taking an interest in what's being said.<br />
<br />
By the way, “yokatta”, when used as an interjection, is usually written only in hiragana (よかった).<br />
<br />
[http://www.thejapanesepage.com/forum/viewthread.php?forum_id=6&thread_id=3034 Forum Thread on yokatta]<br />
<br />
Here are two examples of よかった in a sentence. In each example, the word is the same, but the nuance is changed due to the nature of the sentence- and that is made clear by the translation:<br />
<br />
* 東京はとてもよかったです / Tokyo was great. (The general use: "was good")<br />
<br />
* A: 犬が買えました。名前はジムです。/ I was able to buy a dog. His name is "Jim"<br />
<br />
B: よかったです。 / I'm glad to hear it<br />
<br />
The second example shows the interjection form of Yokatta in contrast.</div>Ongakukahttp://thejapanesepage.com/w/index.php?title=YokattaYokatta2006-08-19T18:00:19Z<p>Ongakuka: </p>
<hr />
<div>Yokatta comes from the adjective 良い(yoi), meaning “good”. It is this adjective’s past conjugation, 良かった (yokatta). In other words, “yokatta” literally means “was good”. <br />
<br />
However, in Japanese “yokatta” is often used as an interjection that can be translated as “I’m so glad”. Take for example this conversation:<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
Now, how could “was good” mean something like “I’m so glad” in Japanese?<br />
<br />
The thing is, a lot of Japanese culture includes simply stating what you see. <br />
<br />
For example:<br />
Ostukaresama - "You're tired!"<br />
<br />
Oyasumi - "You sleep!"<br />
<br />
Ohayou - "It's early!"<br />
<br />
Kawaii - "Cute!"<br />
Oishii - "Tasty!"<br />
<br />
A lot of conversations have this kind of stuff too... Almost like one person tells a story, and the other person just describes their feelings about what they're hearing.<br />
<br />
Anyway, usually when someone explains something good that happened, the other person will say "Yokatta!" just to point out that it's good news for them, or (if it's better news for the other person) to show they're listening and taking an interest in what's being said.<br />
<br />
By the way, “yokatta”, when used as an interjection, is usually written only in hiragana (よかった).<br />
<br />
[http://www.thejapanesepage.com/forum/viewthread.php?forum_id=6&thread_id=3034 Forum Thread on yokatta]<br />
<br />
Here are two examples of よかった in a sentence. In each example, the word is the same, but the nuance is changed due to the nature of the sentence- and that is made clear by the translation:<br />
<br />
* 東京はとてもよかったです / Tokyo was great. (The general use: "was good")<br />
<br />
* A: 犬が買えました。名前はジムです。/ I was able to buy a dog. His name is "Jim"<br />
B: よかったです。 / I'm glad to hear it<br />
<br />
The second example shows the interjection form of Yokatta in contrast.</div>Ongakukahttp://thejapanesepage.com/w/index.php?title=Japanese_Grammar_FAQJapanese Grammar FAQ2006-08-15T11:15:25Z<p>Ongakuka: /* '''Concerning ??? (Saseru)''' */</p>
<hr />
<div>Under Construction... *<br />
<br />
Although this is technically a FAQ, most of the contents are not actually frequently asked questions. They are in fact, grammatical problems which have occured to Japanese students in the past- and the aim of this FAQ is to make sure that these problems can be reviewed in a clear simple format by all students of Japanese. Effectively, the [[Japanese Grammar FAQ]] is simillar to a reference library, or an archive. It doesn't teach grammar, it shows examples of problems which have occured in the past relating to Japanese grammar. Hopefully in time this page will expand and provide our community with another excellent resource for studying Japanese.<br />
<br />
-[[User:Ongakuka|Ongakuka]]<br />
<br />
----<br />
==='''Concerning させる (Saseru)'''===<br />
<br />
Sometimes even the best of Japanese students will come across a confusing grammar problem where they least expect it.<br />
<br />
[[User:Keatonatron|Keatonatron]]: Just some clarification on a fairly basic topic: Can the させる form be used when someone unintentionally is the cause for someone to do something? In other words, instead of "the teacher made the student do his homework" can you use it for "he made me laugh" or "you made me forget?"<br />
<br />
Technically this is true. Just as we say, "You made me laugh" in English the same can be done in Japanese. Take the sentence: "Jill made the teacher laugh." We do not assume Jill is forcing the teacher to laugh, we assume that is unintentional.<br />
<br />
*ジルは先生を笑わせた<br />
*Jiru wa sensei o warawaseta<br />
*Jill made the teacher laugh<br />
<br />
Now grammatically this is all fine and dandy. But unfortunately, in Japanese this has a somewhat sarcastic nuance to it. The example above gives the impression that Jill perhaps made a fool of herself, causing the teacher to laugh. Of course, this isn't the type of nuance we're after.<br />
<br />
Now look at this example:<br />
<br />
*先生はジルに笑ってしまった<br />
*Jiru wa sensei ni waratte shimatta<br />
*By Jill, the teacher was made to laugh<br />
<br />
The above translation may be a little sketchy, but it illustrates the effect given by てしまった(-te shimatta.) (See [[Grammar page 6#.E3.81.97.E3.81.BE.E3.81.A3.E3.81.9F.E3.80.81.E3.81.A1.E3.82.83.E3.81.A3.E3.81.9F|Lesson 6]] for more on しまった)<br />
<br />
You can visit the original discussion threads [http://www.thejapanesepage.com/forum/viewthread.php?forum_id=7&thread_id=3764 -saseru -sareru te, nani?],[http://www.thejapanesepage.com/forum/viewthread.php?forum_id=7&thread_id=3622 Causitive Form Question],[http://www.thejapanesepage.com/forum/viewthread.php?forum_id=7&thread_id=3136#27886| Thisarticle] where you may ask any further questions concerning this topic.<br />
<br />
----<br />
===='''Comparing Confusing Conditionals'''====<br />
<br />
As most textbooks will tell you, there are many words for "if" in the Japanese language. If you have not yet encountered these, I recommend you visit this page. (link to be added.)<br />
<br />
The problems usually arise with the conditionals たら and ーれば、both of which we are told mean "if." So what is the difference between the two? Is one more formal than the other? Is there a certain situation where one is preferrable, or are they interchangeable?<br />
<br />
These are important questions to consider. In my belief, no two words are the same; context and nuance play a big role in Japanese and even in English. For example, the following English words all have the same meaning- but each has a slightly different nuance: but, still, though, although, however, nevertheless.<br />
<br />
'''1. Is one conditional more formal than the other?'''<br />
<br />
As far as たら and れば are concerned, no. Formalities are usually expressed at the end of a sentence, and most sentences with these conditionals take this structure:<br />
<br />
* 日本に行ったら、すしを食べます<br />
<br />
<br />
'''2. Are たら and れば interchangeable?'''<br />
<br />
No. It all depends on ''what you want to say.''<br />
<br />
<br />
'''3. Ok, so how do I use them?'''<br />
<br />
This is the final and most important question. You see, the flaw is actually in ''English'', not Japanese. Observe the two sentences below:<br />
<br />
* If it rains tomorrow, I'll use an umbrella.<br />
<br />
* If you buy that one, you'll have no money left.<br />
<br />
Unlike the first example, the second example has a definite nuance to it. If you buy that one, you will have no money left. It is a ''fact''. Whereas in the first example, there is no definite state implied. The rain isn't going to force me to use an umbrella, I just want to use one because it is going to rain.<br />
<br />
たら would be more suitable in the first example. れば would be more suitable in the second example.<br />
<br />
* 明日雨が降ったら、かさを使います if it rains tomorrow, I expect I'll have to use my umbrella<br />
<br />
* それを買えば、お金がありません if you buy that one, you will have no money left (FACT)</div>Ongakukahttp://thejapanesepage.com/w/index.php?title=Japanese_Grammar_FAQJapanese Grammar FAQ2006-08-15T11:02:20Z<p>Ongakuka: /* '''Comparing Confusing Conditionals''' */</p>
<hr />
<div>Under Construction... *<br />
<br />
Although this is technically a FAQ, most of the contents are not actually frequently asked questions. They are in fact, grammatical problems which have occured to Japanese students in the past- and the aim of this FAQ is to make sure that these problems can be reviewed in a clear simple format by all students of Japanese. Effectively, the [[Japanese Grammar FAQ]] is simillar to a reference library, or an archive. It doesn't teach grammar, it shows examples of problems which have occured in the past relating to Japanese grammar. Hopefully in time this page will expand and provide our community with another excellent resource for studying Japanese.<br />
<br />
-[[User:Ongakuka|Ongakuka]]<br />
<br />
----<br />
==='''Concerning させる (Saseru)'''===<br />
<br />
Sometimes even the best of Japanese students will come across a confusing grammar problem where they least expect it.<br />
<br />
[[User:Keatonatron|Keatonatron]]: Just some clarification on a fairly basic topic: Can the させる form be used when someone unintentionally is the cause for someone to do something? In other words, instead of "the teacher made the student do his homework" can you use it for "he made me laugh" or "you made me forget?"<br />
<br />
Technically this is true. Just as we say, "You made me laugh" in English the same can be done in Japanese. Take the sentence: "Jill made the teacher laugh." We do not assume Jill is forcing the teacher to laugh, we assume that is unintentional.<br />
<br />
*ジルは先生を笑わせた<br />
*Jiru wa sensei o warawaseta<br />
*Jill made the teacher laugh<br />
<br />
Now grammatically this is all fine and dandy. But unfortunately, in Japanese this has a somewhat sarcastic nuance to it. The example above gives the impression that Jill perhaps made a fool of herself, causing the teacher to laugh. Of course, this isn't the type of nuance we're after.<br />
<br />
Now look at this example:<br />
<br />
*ジルは先生に笑ってしまった<br />
*Jiru wa sensei ni waratte shimatta<br />
*By Jill, the teacher was made to laugh<br />
<br />
The above translation may be a little sketchy, but it illustrates the effect given by てしまった(-te shimatta.) (See [[Grammar page 6#.E3.81.97.E3.81.BE.E3.81.A3.E3.81.9F.E3.80.81.E3.81.A1.E3.82.83.E3.81.A3.E3.81.9F|Lesson 6]] for more on しまった)<br />
<br />
You can visit the original discussion threads [http://www.thejapanesepage.com/forum/viewthread.php?forum_id=7&thread_id=3764 -saseru -sareru te, nani?],[http://www.thejapanesepage.com/forum/viewthread.php?forum_id=7&thread_id=3622 Causitive Form Question],[http://www.thejapanesepage.com/forum/viewthread.php?forum_id=7&thread_id=3136#27886| Thisarticle] where you may ask any further questions concerning this topic.<br />
<br />
----<br />
===='''Comparing Confusing Conditionals'''====<br />
<br />
As most textbooks will tell you, there are many words for "if" in the Japanese language. If you have not yet encountered these, I recommend you visit this page. (link to be added.)<br />
<br />
The problems usually arise with the conditionals たら and ーれば、both of which we are told mean "if." So what is the difference between the two? Is one more formal than the other? Is there a certain situation where one is preferrable, or are they interchangeable?<br />
<br />
These are important questions to consider. In my belief, no two words are the same; context and nuance play a big role in Japanese and even in English. For example, the following English words all have the same meaning- but each has a slightly different nuance: but, still, though, although, however, nevertheless.<br />
<br />
'''1. Is one conditional more formal than the other?'''<br />
<br />
As far as たら and れば are concerned, no. Formalities are usually expressed at the end of a sentence, and most sentences with these conditionals take this structure:<br />
<br />
* 日本に行ったら、すしを食べます<br />
<br />
<br />
'''2. Are たら and れば interchangeable?'''<br />
<br />
No. It all depends on ''what you want to say.''<br />
<br />
<br />
'''3. Ok, so how do I use them?'''<br />
<br />
This is the final and most important question. You see, the flaw is actually in ''English'', not Japanese. Observe the two sentences below:<br />
<br />
* If it rains tomorrow, I'll use an umbrella.<br />
<br />
* If you buy that one, you'll have no money left.<br />
<br />
Unlike the first example, the second example has a definite nuance to it. If you buy that one, you will have no money left. It is a ''fact''. Whereas in the first example, there is no definite state implied. The rain isn't going to force me to use an umbrella, I just want to use one because it is going to rain.<br />
<br />
たら would be more suitable in the first example. れば would be more suitable in the second example.<br />
<br />
* 明日雨が降ったら、かさを使います if it rains tomorrow, I expect I'll have to use my umbrella<br />
<br />
* それを買えば、お金がありません if you buy that one, you will have no money left (FACT)</div>Ongakukahttp://thejapanesepage.com/w/index.php?title=Japanese_Grammar_FAQJapanese Grammar FAQ2006-08-15T10:56:32Z<p>Ongakuka: /* '''Comparing Confusing Conditionals''' */</p>
<hr />
<div>Under Construction... *<br />
<br />
Although this is technically a FAQ, most of the contents are not actually frequently asked questions. They are in fact, grammatical problems which have occured to Japanese students in the past- and the aim of this FAQ is to make sure that these problems can be reviewed in a clear simple format by all students of Japanese. Effectively, the [[Japanese Grammar FAQ]] is simillar to a reference library, or an archive. It doesn't teach grammar, it shows examples of problems which have occured in the past relating to Japanese grammar. Hopefully in time this page will expand and provide our community with another excellent resource for studying Japanese.<br />
<br />
-[[User:Ongakuka|Ongakuka]]<br />
<br />
----<br />
==='''Concerning させる (Saseru)'''===<br />
<br />
Sometimes even the best of Japanese students will come across a confusing grammar problem where they least expect it.<br />
<br />
[[User:Keatonatron|Keatonatron]]: Just some clarification on a fairly basic topic: Can the させる form be used when someone unintentionally is the cause for someone to do something? In other words, instead of "the teacher made the student do his homework" can you use it for "he made me laugh" or "you made me forget?"<br />
<br />
Technically this is true. Just as we say, "You made me laugh" in English the same can be done in Japanese. Take the sentence: "Jill made the teacher laugh." We do not assume Jill is forcing the teacher to laugh, we assume that is unintentional.<br />
<br />
*ジルは先生を笑わせた<br />
*Jiru wa sensei o warawaseta<br />
*Jill made the teacher laugh<br />
<br />
Now grammatically this is all fine and dandy. But unfortunately, in Japanese this has a somewhat sarcastic nuance to it. The example above gives the impression that Jill perhaps made a fool of herself, causing the teacher to laugh. Of course, this isn't the type of nuance we're after.<br />
<br />
Now look at this example:<br />
<br />
*ジルは先生に笑ってしまった<br />
*Jiru wa sensei ni waratte shimatta<br />
*By Jill, the teacher was made to laugh<br />
<br />
The above translation may be a little sketchy, but it illustrates the effect given by てしまった(-te shimatta.) (See [[Grammar page 6#.E3.81.97.E3.81.BE.E3.81.A3.E3.81.9F.E3.80.81.E3.81.A1.E3.82.83.E3.81.A3.E3.81.9F|Lesson 6]] for more on しまった)<br />
<br />
You can visit the original discussion threads [http://www.thejapanesepage.com/forum/viewthread.php?forum_id=7&thread_id=3764 -saseru -sareru te, nani?],[http://www.thejapanesepage.com/forum/viewthread.php?forum_id=7&thread_id=3622 Causitive Form Question],[http://www.thejapanesepage.com/forum/viewthread.php?forum_id=7&thread_id=3136#27886| Thisarticle] where you may ask any further questions concerning this topic.<br />
<br />
----<br />
===='''Comparing Confusing Conditionals'''====<br />
<br />
As most textbooks will tell you, there are many words for "if" in the Japanese language. If you have not yet encountered these, I recommend you visit this page. (link to be added.)<br />
<br />
The problems usually arise with the conditionals たら and ーれば、both of which we are told mean "if." So what is the difference between the two? Is one more formal than the other? Is there a certain situation where one is preferrable, or are they interchangeable?<br />
<br />
These are important questions to consider. In my belief, no two words are the same; context and nuance play a big role in Japanese and even in English. For example, the following English words all have the same meaning- but each has a slightly different nuance: but, still, though, although, however, nevertheless.<br />
<br />
'''1. Is one conditional more formal than the other?'''<br />
<br />
As far as たら and れば are concerned, no. Formalities are usually expressed at the end of a sentence, and most sentences with these conditionals take this structure:<br />
<br />
* 日本に行ったら、すしを食べます<br />
<br />
<br />
'''2. Are たら and れば interchangeable?'''<br />
<br />
No. It all depends on ''what you want to say.''<br />
<br />
<br />
'''3. Ok, so how do I use them?'''<br />
<br />
This is the final and most important question. You see, the flaw is actually in ''English'', not Japanese. Observe the two sentences below:<br />
<br />
* If it rains tomorrow, I'll use an umbrella.<br />
<br />
* If you buy that one, you'll have no money left.<br />
<br />
Unlike the first example, the second example has a definite nuance to it. If you buy that one, you will have no money left. It is a ''fact''. Whereas in the first example, there is no definite state implied. The rain isn't going to force me to use an umbrella, I just want to use one because it is going to rain.</div>Ongakukahttp://thejapanesepage.com/w/index.php?title=Japanese_Grammar_FAQJapanese Grammar FAQ2006-08-15T10:47:58Z<p>Ongakuka: /* '''Comparing Confusing Conditionals''' */</p>
<hr />
<div>Under Construction... *<br />
<br />
Although this is technically a FAQ, most of the contents are not actually frequently asked questions. They are in fact, grammatical problems which have occured to Japanese students in the past- and the aim of this FAQ is to make sure that these problems can be reviewed in a clear simple format by all students of Japanese. Effectively, the [[Japanese Grammar FAQ]] is simillar to a reference library, or an archive. It doesn't teach grammar, it shows examples of problems which have occured in the past relating to Japanese grammar. Hopefully in time this page will expand and provide our community with another excellent resource for studying Japanese.<br />
<br />
-[[User:Ongakuka|Ongakuka]]<br />
<br />
----<br />
==='''Concerning させる (Saseru)'''===<br />
<br />
Sometimes even the best of Japanese students will come across a confusing grammar problem where they least expect it.<br />
<br />
[[User:Keatonatron|Keatonatron]]: Just some clarification on a fairly basic topic: Can the させる form be used when someone unintentionally is the cause for someone to do something? In other words, instead of "the teacher made the student do his homework" can you use it for "he made me laugh" or "you made me forget?"<br />
<br />
Technically this is true. Just as we say, "You made me laugh" in English the same can be done in Japanese. Take the sentence: "Jill made the teacher laugh." We do not assume Jill is forcing the teacher to laugh, we assume that is unintentional.<br />
<br />
*ジルは先生を笑わせた<br />
*Jiru wa sensei o warawaseta<br />
*Jill made the teacher laugh<br />
<br />
Now grammatically this is all fine and dandy. But unfortunately, in Japanese this has a somewhat sarcastic nuance to it. The example above gives the impression that Jill perhaps made a fool of herself, causing the teacher to laugh. Of course, this isn't the type of nuance we're after.<br />
<br />
Now look at this example:<br />
<br />
*ジルは先生に笑ってしまった<br />
*Jiru wa sensei ni waratte shimatta<br />
*By Jill, the teacher was made to laugh<br />
<br />
The above translation may be a little sketchy, but it illustrates the effect given by てしまった(-te shimatta.) (See [[Grammar page 6#.E3.81.97.E3.81.BE.E3.81.A3.E3.81.9F.E3.80.81.E3.81.A1.E3.82.83.E3.81.A3.E3.81.9F|Lesson 6]] for more on しまった)<br />
<br />
You can visit the original discussion threads [http://www.thejapanesepage.com/forum/viewthread.php?forum_id=7&thread_id=3764 -saseru -sareru te, nani?],[http://www.thejapanesepage.com/forum/viewthread.php?forum_id=7&thread_id=3622 Causitive Form Question],[http://www.thejapanesepage.com/forum/viewthread.php?forum_id=7&thread_id=3136#27886| Thisarticle] where you may ask any further questions concerning this topic.<br />
<br />
----<br />
===='''Comparing Confusing Conditionals'''====<br />
<br />
As most textbooks will tell you, there are many words for "if" in the Japanese language. If you have not yet encountered these, I recommend you visit this page. (link to be added.)<br />
<br />
The problems usually arise with the conditionals たら and ーれば、both of which we are told mean "if." So what is the difference between the two? Is one more formal than the other? Is there a certain situation where one is preferrable, or are they interchangeable?<br />
<br />
These are important questions to consider. In my belief, no two words are the same; context and nuance play a big role in Japanese and even in English. For example, the following English words all have the same meaning- but each has a slightly different nuance: but, still, though, although, however, nevertheless.<br />
<br />
'''1. Is one conditional more formal than the other?'''<br />
<br />
As far as たら and れば are concerned, no. Formalities are usually expressed at the end of a sentence, and most sentences with these conditionals take this structure:<br />
<br />
* 日本に行ったら、すしを食べます<br />
<br />
'''2. Are たら and れば interchangeable?'''<br />
<br />
No. It all depends on ''what you want to say.''</div>Ongakukahttp://thejapanesepage.com/w/index.php?title=Japanese_Grammar_FAQJapanese Grammar FAQ2006-08-15T10:40:45Z<p>Ongakuka: /* '''Comparing Confusing Conditionals''' */</p>
<hr />
<div>Under Construction... *<br />
<br />
Although this is technically a FAQ, most of the contents are not actually frequently asked questions. They are in fact, grammatical problems which have occured to Japanese students in the past- and the aim of this FAQ is to make sure that these problems can be reviewed in a clear simple format by all students of Japanese. Effectively, the [[Japanese Grammar FAQ]] is simillar to a reference library, or an archive. It doesn't teach grammar, it shows examples of problems which have occured in the past relating to Japanese grammar. Hopefully in time this page will expand and provide our community with another excellent resource for studying Japanese.<br />
<br />
-[[User:Ongakuka|Ongakuka]]<br />
<br />
----<br />
==='''Concerning させる (Saseru)'''===<br />
<br />
Sometimes even the best of Japanese students will come across a confusing grammar problem where they least expect it.<br />
<br />
[[User:Keatonatron|Keatonatron]]: Just some clarification on a fairly basic topic: Can the させる form be used when someone unintentionally is the cause for someone to do something? In other words, instead of "the teacher made the student do his homework" can you use it for "he made me laugh" or "you made me forget?"<br />
<br />
Technically this is true. Just as we say, "You made me laugh" in English the same can be done in Japanese. Take the sentence: "Jill made the teacher laugh." We do not assume Jill is forcing the teacher to laugh, we assume that is unintentional.<br />
<br />
*ジルは先生を笑わせた<br />
*Jiru wa sensei o warawaseta<br />
*Jill made the teacher laugh<br />
<br />
Now grammatically this is all fine and dandy. But unfortunately, in Japanese this has a somewhat sarcastic nuance to it. The example above gives the impression that Jill perhaps made a fool of herself, causing the teacher to laugh. Of course, this isn't the type of nuance we're after.<br />
<br />
Now look at this example:<br />
<br />
*ジルは先生に笑ってしまった<br />
*Jiru wa sensei ni waratte shimatta<br />
*By Jill, the teacher was made to laugh<br />
<br />
The above translation may be a little sketchy, but it illustrates the effect given by てしまった(-te shimatta.) (See [[Grammar page 6#.E3.81.97.E3.81.BE.E3.81.A3.E3.81.9F.E3.80.81.E3.81.A1.E3.82.83.E3.81.A3.E3.81.9F|Lesson 6]] for more on しまった)<br />
<br />
You can visit the original discussion threads [http://www.thejapanesepage.com/forum/viewthread.php?forum_id=7&thread_id=3764 -saseru -sareru te, nani?],[http://www.thejapanesepage.com/forum/viewthread.php?forum_id=7&thread_id=3622 Causitive Form Question],[http://www.thejapanesepage.com/forum/viewthread.php?forum_id=7&thread_id=3136#27886| Thisarticle] where you may ask any further questions concerning this topic.<br />
<br />
----<br />
===='''Comparing Confusing Conditionals'''====<br />
<br />
As most textbooks will tell you, there are many words for "if" in the Japanese language. If you have not yet encountered these, I recommend you visit this page. (link to be added.)<br />
<br />
The problems usually arise with the conditionals たら and ーれば、both of which we are told mean "if." So what is the difference between the two? Is one more formal than the other? Is there a certain situation where one is preferrable, or are they interchangeable?<br />
<br />
These are important questions to consider. In my belief, no two words are the same; context and nuance play a big role in Japanese and even in English. For example, the following English words all have the same meaning- but each has a slightly different nuance: but, still, though, although, however, nevertheless.</div>Ongakukahttp://thejapanesepage.com/w/index.php?title=Japanese_Grammar_FAQJapanese Grammar FAQ2006-08-15T10:33:45Z<p>Ongakuka: /* '''Comparing Confusing Conditionals''' */</p>
<hr />
<div>Under Construction... *<br />
<br />
Although this is technically a FAQ, most of the contents are not actually frequently asked questions. They are in fact, grammatical problems which have occured to Japanese students in the past- and the aim of this FAQ is to make sure that these problems can be reviewed in a clear simple format by all students of Japanese. Effectively, the [[Japanese Grammar FAQ]] is simillar to a reference library, or an archive. It doesn't teach grammar, it shows examples of problems which have occured in the past relating to Japanese grammar. Hopefully in time this page will expand and provide our community with another excellent resource for studying Japanese.<br />
<br />
-[[User:Ongakuka|Ongakuka]]<br />
<br />
----<br />
==='''Concerning させる (Saseru)'''===<br />
<br />
Sometimes even the best of Japanese students will come across a confusing grammar problem where they least expect it.<br />
<br />
[[User:Keatonatron|Keatonatron]]: Just some clarification on a fairly basic topic: Can the させる form be used when someone unintentionally is the cause for someone to do something? In other words, instead of "the teacher made the student do his homework" can you use it for "he made me laugh" or "you made me forget?"<br />
<br />
Technically this is true. Just as we say, "You made me laugh" in English the same can be done in Japanese. Take the sentence: "Jill made the teacher laugh." We do not assume Jill is forcing the teacher to laugh, we assume that is unintentional.<br />
<br />
*ジルは先生を笑わせた<br />
*Jiru wa sensei o warawaseta<br />
*Jill made the teacher laugh<br />
<br />
Now grammatically this is all fine and dandy. But unfortunately, in Japanese this has a somewhat sarcastic nuance to it. The example above gives the impression that Jill perhaps made a fool of herself, causing the teacher to laugh. Of course, this isn't the type of nuance we're after.<br />
<br />
Now look at this example:<br />
<br />
*ジルは先生に笑ってしまった<br />
*Jiru wa sensei ni waratte shimatta<br />
*By Jill, the teacher was made to laugh<br />
<br />
The above translation may be a little sketchy, but it illustrates the effect given by てしまった(-te shimatta.) (See [[Grammar page 6#.E3.81.97.E3.81.BE.E3.81.A3.E3.81.9F.E3.80.81.E3.81.A1.E3.82.83.E3.81.A3.E3.81.9F|Lesson 6]] for more on しまった)<br />
<br />
You can visit the original discussion threads [http://www.thejapanesepage.com/forum/viewthread.php?forum_id=7&thread_id=3764 -saseru -sareru te, nani?],[http://www.thejapanesepage.com/forum/viewthread.php?forum_id=7&thread_id=3622 Causitive Form Question],[http://www.thejapanesepage.com/forum/viewthread.php?forum_id=7&thread_id=3136#27886| Thisarticle] where you may ask any further questions concerning this topic.<br />
<br />
----<br />
===='''Comparing Confusing Conditionals'''====<br />
<br />
As most textbooks will tell you, there are many words for "if" in the Japanese language. If you have not yet encountered these, I recommend you visit this page. (link to be added.)<br />
<br />
The problems usually arise with the conditionals たら and ーれば、both of which we are told mean "if." So what is the difference between the two? Is one more formal than the other? Is there a certain situation where one is preferrable, or are they interchangeable?</div>Ongakukahttp://thejapanesepage.com/w/index.php?title=Japanese_Grammar_FAQJapanese Grammar FAQ2006-08-15T10:27:26Z<p>Ongakuka: </p>
<hr />
<div>Under Construction... *<br />
<br />
Although this is technically a FAQ, most of the contents are not actually frequently asked questions. They are in fact, grammatical problems which have occured to Japanese students in the past- and the aim of this FAQ is to make sure that these problems can be reviewed in a clear simple format by all students of Japanese. Effectively, the [[Japanese Grammar FAQ]] is simillar to a reference library, or an archive. It doesn't teach grammar, it shows examples of problems which have occured in the past relating to Japanese grammar. Hopefully in time this page will expand and provide our community with another excellent resource for studying Japanese.<br />
<br />
-[[User:Ongakuka|Ongakuka]]<br />
<br />
----<br />
==='''Concerning させる (Saseru)'''===<br />
<br />
Sometimes even the best of Japanese students will come across a confusing grammar problem where they least expect it.<br />
<br />
[[User:Keatonatron|Keatonatron]]: Just some clarification on a fairly basic topic: Can the させる form be used when someone unintentionally is the cause for someone to do something? In other words, instead of "the teacher made the student do his homework" can you use it for "he made me laugh" or "you made me forget?"<br />
<br />
Technically this is true. Just as we say, "You made me laugh" in English the same can be done in Japanese. Take the sentence: "Jill made the teacher laugh." We do not assume Jill is forcing the teacher to laugh, we assume that is unintentional.<br />
<br />
*ジルは先生を笑わせた<br />
*Jiru wa sensei o warawaseta<br />
*Jill made the teacher laugh<br />
<br />
Now grammatically this is all fine and dandy. But unfortunately, in Japanese this has a somewhat sarcastic nuance to it. The example above gives the impression that Jill perhaps made a fool of herself, causing the teacher to laugh. Of course, this isn't the type of nuance we're after.<br />
<br />
Now look at this example:<br />
<br />
*ジルは先生に笑ってしまった<br />
*Jiru wa sensei ni waratte shimatta<br />
*By Jill, the teacher was made to laugh<br />
<br />
The above translation may be a little sketchy, but it illustrates the effect given by てしまった(-te shimatta.) (See [[Grammar page 6#.E3.81.97.E3.81.BE.E3.81.A3.E3.81.9F.E3.80.81.E3.81.A1.E3.82.83.E3.81.A3.E3.81.9F|Lesson 6]] for more on しまった)<br />
<br />
You can visit the original discussion threads [http://www.thejapanesepage.com/forum/viewthread.php?forum_id=7&thread_id=3764 -saseru -sareru te, nani?],[http://www.thejapanesepage.com/forum/viewthread.php?forum_id=7&thread_id=3622 Causitive Form Question],[http://www.thejapanesepage.com/forum/viewthread.php?forum_id=7&thread_id=3136#27886| Thisarticle] where you may ask any further questions concerning this topic.<br />
<br />
----<br />
===='''Comparing Confusing Conditionals'''====</div>Ongakukahttp://thejapanesepage.com/w/index.php?title=Japanese_Grammar_FAQJapanese Grammar FAQ2006-08-14T14:31:34Z<p>Ongakuka: /* '''Concerning ??? (Saseru)''' */</p>
<hr />
<div>Under Construction... *<br />
<br />
Although this is technically a FAQ, most of the contents are not actually frequently asked questions. They are in fact, grammatical problems which have occured to Japanese students in the past- and the aim of this FAQ is to make sure that these problems can be reviewed in a clear simple format by all students of Japanese. Effectively, the [[Japanese Grammar FAQ]] is simillar to a reference library, or an archive. It doesn't teach grammar, it shows examples of problems which have occured in the past relating to Japanese grammar. Hopefully in time this page will expand and provide our community with another excellent resource for studying Japanese.<br />
<br />
-[[User:Ongakuka|Ongakuka]]<br />
<br />
----<br />
==='''Concerning させる (Saseru)'''===<br />
<br />
Sometimes even the best of Japanese students will come across a confusing grammar problem where they least expect it.<br />
<br />
[[User:Keatonatron|Keatonatron]]: Just some clarification on a fairly basic topic: Can the させる form be used when someone unintentionally is the cause for someone to do something? In other words, instead of "the teacher made the student do his homework" can you use it for "he made me laugh" or "you made me forget?"<br />
<br />
Technically this is true. Just as we say, "You made me laugh" in English the same can be done in Japanese. Take the sentence: "Jill made the teacher laugh." We do not assume Jill is forcing the teacher to laugh, we assume that is unintentional.<br />
<br />
*ジルは先生を笑わせた<br />
*Jiru wa sensei o warawaseta<br />
*Jill made the teacher laugh<br />
<br />
Now grammatically this is all fine and dandy. But unfortunately, in Japanese this has a somewhat sarcastic nuance to it. The example above gives the impression that Jill perhaps made a fool of herself, causing the teacher to laugh. Of course, this isn't the type of nuance we're after.<br />
<br />
Now look at this example:<br />
<br />
*ジルは先生に笑ってしまった<br />
*Jiru wa sensei ni waratte shimatta<br />
*By Jill, the teacher was made to laugh<br />
<br />
The above translation may be a little sketchy, but it illustrates the effect given by てしまった(-te shimatta.) (See [[Grammar page 6#.E3.81.97.E3.81.BE.E3.81.A3.E3.81.9F.E3.80.81.E3.81.A1.E3.82.83.E3.81.A3.E3.81.9F|Lesson 6]] for more on しまった)<br />
<br />
You can visit the original discussion threads [http://www.thejapanesepage.com/forum/viewthread.php?forum_id=7&thread_id=3764 -saseru -sareru te, nani?],[http://www.thejapanesepage.com/forum/viewthread.php?forum_id=7&thread_id=3622 Causitive Form Question],[http://www.thejapanesepage.com/forum/viewthread.php?forum_id=7&thread_id=3136#27886| Thisarticle] where you may ask any further questions concerning this topic.</div>Ongakukahttp://thejapanesepage.com/w/index.php?title=Japanese_Grammar_FAQJapanese Grammar FAQ2006-08-14T12:30:50Z<p>Ongakuka: </p>
<hr />
<div>Under Construction... *<br />
<br />
Although this is technically a FAQ, most of the contents are not actually frequently asked questions. They are in fact, grammatical problems which have occured to Japanese students in the past- and the aim of this FAQ is to make sure that these problems can be reviewed in a clear simple format by all students of Japanese. Effectively, the [[Japanese Grammar FAQ]] is simillar to a reference library, or an archive. It doesn't teach grammar, it shows examples of problems which have occured in the past relating to Japanese grammar. Hopefully in time this page will expand and provide our community with another excellent resource for studying Japanese.<br />
<br />
-[[User:Ongakuka|Ongakuka]]<br />
<br />
----<br />
==='''Concerning させる (Saseru)'''===<br />
<br />
Sometimes even the best of Japanese students will come across a confusing grammar problem where they least expect it.<br />
<br />
[[User:Keatonatron|Keatonatron]]: Just some clarification on a fairly basic topic: Can the させる form be used when someone unintentionally is the cause for someone to do something? In other words, instead of "the teacher made the student do his homework" can you use it for "he made me laugh" or "you made me forget?"<br />
<br />
Technically this is true. Just as we say, "You made me laugh" in English the same can be done in Japanese. Take the sentence: "Jill made the teacher laugh." We do not assume Jill is forcing the teacher to laugh, we assume that is unintentional.<br />
<br />
*ジルは先生を笑わせた<br />
*Jiru wa sensei o warawaseta<br />
*Jill made the teacher laugh<br />
<br />
Now grammatically this is all fine and dandy. But unfortunately, in Japanese this has a somewhat sarcastic nuance to it. The example above gives the impression that Jill perhaps made a fool of herself, causing the teacher to laugh. Of course, this isn't the type of nuance we're after.<br />
<br />
Now look at this example:<br />
<br />
*ジルは先生に笑ってしまった<br />
*Jiru wa sensei ni waratte shimatta<br />
*By Jill, the teacher was made to laugh<br />
<br />
The above translation may be a little sketchy, but it illustrates the effect given by てしまった(-te shimatta.) (See [[Grammar page 6#.E3.81.97.E3.81.BE.E3.81.A3.E3.81.9F.E3.80.81.E3.81.A1.E3.82.83.E3.81.A3.E3.81.9F|Lesson 6]] for more on しまった)<br />
<br />
You can visit the original discussion thread [http://www.thejapanesepage.com/forum/viewthread.php?forum_id=7&thread_id=3136#27886| Here], where you may ask any further questions concerning this topic.</div>Ongakukahttp://thejapanesepage.com/w/index.php?title=Japanese_Grammar_FAQJapanese Grammar FAQ2006-08-14T11:01:51Z<p>Ongakuka: /* '''Concerning ??? (Saseru)''' */</p>
<hr />
<div>Under Construction... *<br />
<br />
Although this is technically a FAQ, most of the contents are not actually frequently asked questions. They are in fact, grammatical problems which have occured to Japanese students in the past- and the aim of this FAQ is to make sure that these problems can be reviewed in a clear simple format by all students of Japanese. Effectively, the [[Japanese Grammar FAQ]] is simillar to a reference library, or an archive. It doesn't teach grammar, it shows examples of problems which have occured in the past concerning with grammar. Hopefully in time this page will expand and provide our community with another excellent resource for studying Japanese.<br />
<br />
-[[User:Ongakuka|Ongakuka]]<br />
<br />
----<br />
==='''Concerning させる (Saseru)'''===<br />
<br />
Sometimes even the best of Japanese students will come across a confusing grammar problem where they least expect it.<br />
<br />
[[User:Keatonatron|Keatonatron]]: Just some clarification on a fairly basic topic: Can the させる form be used when someone unintentionally is the cause for someone to do something? In other words, instead of "the teacher made the student do his homework" can you use it for "he made me laugh" or "you made me forget?"<br />
<br />
Technically this is true. Just as we say, "You made me laugh" in English the same can be done in Japanese. Take the sentence: "Jill made the teacher laugh." We do not assume Jill is forcing the teacher to laugh, we assume that is unintentional.<br />
<br />
*ジルは先生を笑わせた<br />
*Jiru wa sensei o warawaseta<br />
*Jill made the teacher laugh<br />
<br />
Now grammatically this is all fine and dandy. But unfortunately, in Japanese this has a somewhat sarcastic nuance to it. The example above gives the impression that Jill perhaps made a fool of herself, causing the teacher to laugh. Of course, this isn't the type of nuance we're after.<br />
<br />
Now look at this example:<br />
<br />
*ジルは先生に笑ってしまった<br />
*Jiru wa sensei ni waratte shimatta<br />
*By Jill, the teacher was made to laugh<br />
<br />
The above translation may be a little sketchy, but it illustrates the effect given by てしまった(-te shimatta.) (See [[Grammar page 6#.E3.81.97.E3.81.BE.E3.81.A3.E3.81.9F.E3.80.81.E3.81.A1.E3.82.83.E3.81.A3.E3.81.9F|Lesson 6]] for more on しまった)<br />
<br />
You can visit the original discussion thread [http://www.thejapanesepage.com/forum/viewthread.php?forum_id=7&thread_id=3136#27886| Here], where you may ask any further questions concerning this topic.</div>Ongakukahttp://thejapanesepage.com/w/index.php?title=Japanese_Grammar_FAQJapanese Grammar FAQ2006-08-14T11:00:47Z<p>Ongakuka: /* '''Concerning ??? (Saseru)''' */</p>
<hr />
<div>Under Construction... *<br />
<br />
Although this is technically a FAQ, most of the contents are not actually frequently asked questions. They are in fact, grammatical problems which have occured to Japanese students in the past- and the aim of this FAQ is to make sure that these problems can be reviewed in a clear simple format by all students of Japanese. Effectively, the [[Japanese Grammar FAQ]] is simillar to a reference library, or an archive. It doesn't teach grammar, it shows examples of problems which have occured in the past concerning with grammar. Hopefully in time this page will expand and provide our community with another excellent resource for studying Japanese.<br />
<br />
-[[User:Ongakuka|Ongakuka]]<br />
<br />
----<br />
==='''Concerning させる (Saseru)'''===<br />
<br />
Sometimes even the best of Japanese students will come across a confusing grammar problem where they least expect it.<br />
<br />
[[User:Keatonatron|Keatonatron]]: Just some clarification on a fairly basic topic: Can the させる form be used when someone unintentionally is the cause for someone to do something? In other words, instead of "the teacher made the student do his homework" can you use it for "he made me laugh" or "you made me forget?"<br />
<br />
Technically this is true. Just as we say, "You made me laugh" in English the same can be done in Japanese. Take the sentence: "Jill made the teacher laugh." We do not assume Jill is forcing the teacher to laugh, we assume that is unintentional.<br />
<br />
*ジルは先生を笑わせた<br />
*Jiru wa sensei o warawaseta<br />
*Jill made the teacher laugh<br />
<br />
Now grammatically this is all fine and dandy. But unfortunately, in Japanese this has a somewhat sarcastic nuance to it. The example above gives the impression that Jill perhaps made a fool of herself, causing the teacher to laugh. Of course, this isn't the type of nuance we're after.<br />
<br />
Now look at this example:<br />
<br />
*ジルは先生に笑ってしまった<br />
*Jiru wa sensei ni waratte shimatta<br />
*By Jill, the teacher was made to laugh<br />
<br />
The above translation may be a little sketchy, but it illustrates the effect given by てしまった(-te shimatta.) (See [[Grammar page 6#.E3.81.97.E3.81.BE.E3.81.A3.E3.81.9F.E3.80.81.E3.81.A1.E3.82.83.E3.81.A3.E3.81.9F|Lesson 6]] for more on しまった)<br />
<br />
*You can visit the original discussion thread [http://www.thejapanesepage.com/forum/viewthread.php?forum_id=7&thread_id=3136#27886| Here], where you may ask any further questions concerning this topic.</div>Ongakukahttp://thejapanesepage.com/w/index.php?title=Japanese_Grammar_FAQJapanese Grammar FAQ2006-08-13T18:49:49Z<p>Ongakuka: /* '''Concerning ??? (Saseru)''' */</p>
<hr />
<div>Under Construction... *<br />
<br />
Although this is technically a FAQ, most of the contents are not actually frequently asked questions. They are in fact, grammatical problems which have occured to Japanese students in the past- and the aim of this FAQ is to make sure that these problems can be reviewed in a clear simple format by all students of Japanese. Effectively, the [[Japanese Grammar FAQ]] is simillar to a reference library, or an archive. It doesn't teach grammar, it shows examples of problems which have occured in the past concerning with grammar. Hopefully in time this page will expand and provide our community with another excellent resource for studying Japanese.<br />
<br />
-[[User:Ongakuka|Ongakuka]]<br />
<br />
----<br />
==='''Concerning させる (Saseru)'''===<br />
<br />
Sometimes even the best of Japanese students will come across a confusing grammar problem where they least expect it.<br />
<br />
[[User:Keatonatron|Keatonatron]]: Just some clarification on a fairly basic topic: Can the させる form be used when someone unintentionally is the cause for someone to do something? In other words, instead of "the teacher made the student do his homework" can you use it for "he made me laugh" or "you made me forget?"<br />
<br />
Technically this is true. Just as we say, "You made me laugh" in English the same can be done in Japanese. Take the sentence: "Jill made the teacher laugh." We do not assume Jill is forcing the teacher to laugh, we assume that is unintentional.<br />
<br />
*ジルは先生に笑わせた<br />
*Jiru wa sensei ni warawaseta<br />
*Jill made the teacher laugh<br />
<br />
Now grammatically this is all fine and dandy. But unfortunately, in Japanese this has a somewhat sarcastic nuance to it. The example above gives the impression that Jill perhaps made a fool of herself, causing the teacher to laugh. Of course, this isn't the type of nuance we're after.<br />
<br />
Now look at this example:<br />
<br />
*ジルは先生に笑ってしまった<br />
*Jiru wa sensei ni waratte shimatta<br />
*By Jill, the teacher was made to laugh<br />
<br />
The above translation may be a little sketchy, but it illustrates the effect given by てしまった(-te shimatta.)</div>Ongakukahttp://thejapanesepage.com/w/index.php?title=Japanese_Grammar_FAQJapanese Grammar FAQ2006-08-13T18:40:24Z<p>Ongakuka: /* '''Concerning ??? (Saseru)''' */</p>
<hr />
<div>Under Construction... *<br />
<br />
Although this is technically a FAQ, most of the contents are not actually frequently asked questions. They are in fact, grammatical problems which have occured to Japanese students in the past- and the aim of this FAQ is to make sure that these problems can be reviewed in a clear simple format by all students of Japanese. Effectively, the [[Japanese Grammar FAQ]] is simillar to a reference library, or an archive. It doesn't teach grammar, it shows examples of problems which have occured in the past concerning with grammar. Hopefully in time this page will expand and provide our community with another excellent resource for studying Japanese.<br />
<br />
-[[User:Ongakuka|Ongakuka]]<br />
<br />
----<br />
==='''Concerning させる (Saseru)'''===<br />
<br />
Sometimes even the best of Japanese students will come across a confusing grammar problem where they least expect it.<br />
<br />
[[User:Keatonatron|Keatonatron]]: Just some clarification on a fairly basic topic: Can the させる form be used when someone unintentionally is the cause for someone to do something? In other words, instead of "the teacher made the student do his homework" can you use it for "he made me laugh" or "you made me forget?"<br />
<br />
Technically this is true. Just as we say, "You made me laugh" in English the same can be done in Japanese. Take the sentence: "Jill made the teacher laugh." We do not assume Jill is forcing the teacher to laugh, we assume that is unintentional.<br />
<br />
*ジルは先生に笑わせた<br />
*Jiru wa sensei ni warawaseta<br />
*Jill made the teacher laugh<br />
<br />
Now grammatically this is all fine and dandy. But unfortunately, in Japanese this has a somewhat sarcastic nuance to it. The example above gives the impression that Jill perhaps made a fool of herself, causing the teacher to laugh. Of course, this isn't the type of nuance we're after.</div>Ongakukahttp://thejapanesepage.com/w/index.php?title=Japanese_Grammar_FAQJapanese Grammar FAQ2006-08-13T16:41:19Z<p>Ongakuka: /* '''Concerning ??? (Saseru)''' */</p>
<hr />
<div>Under Construction... *<br />
<br />
Although this is technically a FAQ, most of the contents are not actually frequently asked questions. They are in fact, grammatical problems which have occured to Japanese students in the past- and the aim of this FAQ is to make sure that these problems can be reviewed in a clear simple format by all students of Japanese. Effectively, the [[Japanese Grammar FAQ]] is simillar to a reference library, or an archive. It doesn't teach grammar, it shows examples of problems which have occured in the past concerning with grammar. Hopefully in time this page will expand and provide our community with another excellent resource for studying Japanese.<br />
<br />
-[[User:Ongakuka|Ongakuka]]<br />
<br />
----<br />
==='''Concerning させる (Saseru)'''===<br />
<br />
Sometimes even the best of Japanese students will come across a confusing grammar problem where they least expect it.<br />
<br />
[[User:Keatonatron|Keatonatron]]: Just some clarification on a fairly basic topic: Can the させる form be used when someone unintentionally is the cause for someone to do something? In other words, instead of "the teacher made the student do his homework" can you use it for "he made me laugh" or "you made me forget"?</div>Ongakukahttp://thejapanesepage.com/w/index.php?title=Japanese_Grammar_FAQJapanese Grammar FAQ2006-08-13T16:41:01Z<p>Ongakuka: /* '''Concerning ??? (Saseru)''' */</p>
<hr />
<div>Under Construction... *<br />
<br />
Although this is technically a FAQ, most of the contents are not actually frequently asked questions. They are in fact, grammatical problems which have occured to Japanese students in the past- and the aim of this FAQ is to make sure that these problems can be reviewed in a clear simple format by all students of Japanese. Effectively, the [[Japanese Grammar FAQ]] is simillar to a reference library, or an archive. It doesn't teach grammar, it shows examples of problems which have occured in the past concerning with grammar. Hopefully in time this page will expand and provide our community with another excellent resource for studying Japanese.<br />
<br />
-[[User:Ongakuka|Ongakuka]]<br />
<br />
----<br />
==='''Concerning させる (Saseru)'''===<br />
<br />
Sometimes even the best of Japanese students will come across a confusing grammar problem where they least expect it.<br />
<br />
[[User:Keatonatron|Kearonatron]]: Just some clarification on a fairly basic topic: Can the させる form be used when someone unintentionally is the cause for someone to do something? In other words, instead of "the teacher made the student do his homework" can you use it for "he made me laugh" or "you made me forget"?</div>Ongakukahttp://thejapanesepage.com/w/index.php?title=Japanese_Grammar_FAQJapanese Grammar FAQ2006-08-13T16:29:30Z<p>Ongakuka: </p>
<hr />
<div>Under Construction... *<br />
<br />
Although this is technically a FAQ, most of the contents are not actually frequently asked questions. They are in fact, grammatical problems which have occured to Japanese students in the past- and the aim of this FAQ is to make sure that these problems can be reviewed in a clear simple format by all students of Japanese. Effectively, the [[Japanese Grammar FAQ]] is simillar to a reference library, or an archive. It doesn't teach grammar, it shows examples of problems which have occured in the past concerning with grammar. Hopefully in time this page will expand and provide our community with another excellent resource for studying Japanese.<br />
<br />
-[[User:Ongakuka|Ongakuka]]<br />
<br />
----<br />
==='''Concerning させる (Saseru)'''===<br />
<br />
Sometimes even the best of Japanese students will come across a confusing grammar problem where they least expect it.<br />
<br />
[[User:Keatronatron|Keatronatron]]: Just some clarification on a fairly basic topic: Can the させる form be used when someone unintentionally is the cause for someone to do something? In other words, instead of "the teacher made the student do his homework" can you use it for "he made me laugh" or "you made me forget"?</div>Ongakukahttp://thejapanesepage.com/w/index.php?title=Japanese_Grammar_FAQJapanese Grammar FAQ2006-08-13T15:54:58Z<p>Ongakuka: /* '''1. Ookii Vs ookina (???Vs???)''' */</p>
<hr />
<div>Under Construction... *<br />
<br />
Although this is technically a FAQ, most of the contents are not actually frequently asked questions. They are in fact, grammatical problems which have occured to Japanese students in the past- and the aim of this FAQ is to make sure that these problems can be reviewed in a clear simple format by all students of Japanese. Effectively, the [[Japanese Grammar FAQ]] is simillar to a reference library, or an archive. It doesn't teach grammar, it shows examples of problems which have occured in the past concerning with grammar. Hopefully in time this page will expand and provide our community with another excellent resource for studying Japanese.<br />
<br />
-[[User:Ongakuka|Ongakuka]]<br />
<br />
----</div>Ongakukahttp://thejapanesepage.com/w/index.php?title=Japanese_Grammar_FAQJapanese Grammar FAQ2006-08-13T15:52:29Z<p>Ongakuka: /* '''1. Ookii Vs ookina (???Vs???)''' */</p>
<hr />
<div>Under Construction... *<br />
<br />
Although this is technically a FAQ, most of the contents are not actually frequently asked questions. They are in fact, grammatical problems which have occured to Japanese students in the past- and the aim of this FAQ is to make sure that these problems can be reviewed in a clear simple format by all students of Japanese. Effectively, the [[Japanese Grammar FAQ]] is simillar to a reference library, or an archive. It doesn't teach grammar, it shows examples of problems which have occured in the past concerning with grammar. Hopefully in time this page will expand and provide our community with another excellent resource for studying Japanese.<br />
<br />
-[[User:Ongakuka|Ongakuka]]<br />
<br />
----<br />
<br />
==='''1. Ookii Vs ookina (大きいVs大きな）'''===<br />
<br />
The adjectives "Ookii"（大きい）-Large, and "Chiisai" （小さい）-Small, are classified as "i" adjectives. However, unlike standard Japanese adjectives, they can be interchanged with a "na" form- which is seen as an exception since most Japanese adjectives are either one or the other. <br />
<br />
So what is the difference between the two? The obvious difference would be the fact that "Okina" cannot precede "desu," in this case it must be used in the "i" adjective form.<br />
<br />
*Example: そのいすは大きいです (sono isu wa ookii desu)<br />
<br />
Meaning "That chair is large." To use the "na" form, the adjective must precede a noun.<br />
<br />
*Example: それは大きないすです (sore wa ooki na isu desu)<br />
<br />
Meaning "That is a large chair." Notice how, in English, "That is a large chair" differs from "That chair is large."<br />
<br />
But what is the difference between these two sentences?<br />
<br />
*それは大きい木です<br />
Sore wa ookii ki desu<br />
<br />
*それは大きな木です<br />
Sore wa ooki na ki desu<br />
<br />
In English, both have the same meaning, yet in Japanese these two sentences have slighty different nuances- after all, two different words never have the same meaning. One important fact to note is: "Ookii" can only be used for physical size, whereas "Ooki na" can imply an abstract meaning of the word "big."<br />
<br />
*Example: 大きな問題 (Ookina mondai) -A big problem. "Ookii" cannot be used in this situation.<br />
<br />
Thanks to [[User:Oracle|Oracle]] for this information.</div>Ongakukahttp://thejapanesepage.com/w/index.php?title=Japanese_Grammar_FAQJapanese Grammar FAQ2006-08-13T15:47:56Z<p>Ongakuka: /* '''1. Ookii Vs ookina (???Vs???)''' */</p>
<hr />
<div>Under Construction... *<br />
<br />
Although this is technically a FAQ, most of the contents are not actually frequently asked questions. They are in fact, grammatical problems which have occured to Japanese students in the past- and the aim of this FAQ is to make sure that these problems can be reviewed in a clear simple format by all students of Japanese. Effectively, the [[Japanese Grammar FAQ]] is simillar to a reference library, or an archive. It doesn't teach grammar, it shows examples of problems which have occured in the past concerning with grammar. Hopefully in time this page will expand and provide our community with another excellent resource for studying Japanese.<br />
<br />
-[[User:Ongakuka|Ongakuka]]<br />
<br />
----<br />
<br />
==='''1. Ookii Vs ookina (大きいVs大きな）'''===<br />
<br />
The adjectives "Ookii"（大きい）-Large, and "Chiisai" （小さい）-Small, are classified as "i" adjectives. However, unlike standard Japanese adjectives, they can be interchanged with a "na" form- which is seen as an exception since most Japanese adjectives are either one or the other. <br />
<br />
So what is the difference between the two? The obvious difference would be the fact that "Okina" cannot precede "desu," in this case it must be used in the "i" adjective form.<br />
<br />
*Example: そのいすは大きいです (sono isu wa ookii desu)<br />
<br />
Meaning "That chair is large." To use the "na" form, the adjective must precede a noun.<br />
<br />
*Example: それは大きないすです (sore wa ooki na isu desu)<br />
<br />
Meaning "That is a large chair." Notice how, in English, "That is a large chair" differs from "That chair is large."<br />
<br />
But what is the difference between these two sentences?<br />
<br />
*それは大きい木です<br />
Sore wa ookii ki desu<br />
<br />
*それは大きな木です<br />
Sore wa ooki na ki desu<br />
<br />
In English, both have the same meaning, yet in Japanese these two sentences have slighty different nuances- after all, two different words never have the same meaning.</div>Ongakuka