200 Expressions So Far!!! Last update: Aug.

2004 JLPT GRAMMAR GUIDE

A AGEKUAGEKU NO Grade 2 Meaning: After much __ing Used only for negative results, such as After much worrying, I decided to quit my job. Notes: Same as sue ni but can only be used for actions which have negative results. Sue ni , on the other hand, can be used for both positive and negative things. Ageku and ageku no are the same meaning, but differ grammatically. ageku is a conjunction, used to join two clause, whereas ageku no always comes before a noun. Example: After consulting with my parents, I quit school. This is a decision that I reached after talking with my parents. CF: sue ni AREBA (see to areba) ATARANAI (See ni ataranai)

ATTE NO Grade 1 Meaning: Its only possible because of; If not for A, B would not be possible. Notes: Comes between two nouns. Example: Society is only possible because of laws.

B BAKARI NI () Grade 2

Meaning: Because. Always indicates a negative outcome. Example: I failed the test because I didnt study. I dont have any money because I bought a new car. ~BA KOSO Grade 1 Meaning: If only. Notes: Always used with a conditional form verb. Example: If only I had money, I could go on a trip. CF: Koso

BEKARAZU, BEKARAZARU ~Grade 1 Meaning: Shouldnt; Dont. Notes: Written only. Old fashioned word that was often used on public notices prohibiting actions. Bekarazu always comes at the end of a sentence. Bekarazaru comes before a noun. Although the meanings are completely different, they may throw in questions where both beku and gatera would be appropriate, but only one would be grammatically correct. Beku comes after a masu form verb, or a gerund. E.g. Hakamairi o suru beku, furusato ni kaetta. Example: Do not throw your garbage here. That matter is something I can never forgive. BEKU Grade 1 Meaning: For the purpose of; To ____, In order to

Notes: Beku is the same as ~ngatame but they differ grammatically. Beku comes after the dictionary form of a verb, whereas ~ngatame follows the ~tai form of a verb. Written. Example: I studied hard in order to become an engineer.

D DAKE, DAKE NO Grade 2 Meaning: As much as; As fast as; To the extent of. Notes: Has no negative form. Dake no is always used before a noun. Example: Have as much as you want. I did as much as I could.

DAKE ATTE () Meaning: As might be expected. Notes: Often used after sasuga. Example: As might be expected from a child whose parents are professional athletes, hes an allaround athlete. CF: DANI Grade 1 Meaning: Even; Just. Used for emphasizing the unlikelihood of something happening. Notes: Often used after () or (). Example: I never even imagined it. Just hearing about it is dreadful.

 DARAKE () Grade 2 Meaning: Covered in; Full of. Used for things that can be sensed or seen, always has a negative nuance. Notes: Darake is easily confused with mamire. They are similar, but mamire means totally covered and cant be used for intangible things. You can say both chidarake and chimamire (covered in blood), hokoridarake and hokorimamire or dorodarake and doromamire (covered in mud). You can say machigaidarake (full of mistakes), shiwadarake (covered in wrinkles) and kizudarake (covered with cuts) but not machigaimamire, shiwamamire and kizumamire. Both mamire and darake have negative meanings, while zukume has a positive meaning. Example: () Covered in mud. () Full of mistakes. CF: ~gimi, ~gachi, ~ppoi, ~mamire, ~zukume, ~meku, ~rashii, kirai ga aru DE ARE (1)Grade 1 Meaning: No matter what; Even if; No matter how Notes: Same meaning as Tatoe~temo. Written. Formal. Example: Even the company president has to obey the rules. CF: Tatoe~demo Voting is something that you have to do, even if you live abroad. DE ARE (2) Grade ? Meaning: It doesnt matter which; It doesnt matter whether.

Notes: Unlike ~u ga/~nai ga, de are can be used in both positive and negative sentences. Always follows a noun or a na adjective. In the case of an I adjective, the form changes to kare. Usually written. After verbs, use ni shiro. Example: It doesnt matter whether its a weekend or a weekday, this shop is always crowded. CF: De are (1), ~u ga, ~nai ga, ~kare, ni shiro DE AROU TO Grade 1 Meaning: No matter what; Even if; No matter how Notes: Same as de are. Formal. Written. Example: This movie can be enjoyed by anyone, no matter what kind of person they are. CF: De are, Tatoe~demo

DE NAKUTE NAN DAROU Grade 1 Meaning: If thats not _________, then I dont know what is. Notes: Always follows a noun. Written only. Example: If this isnt the worlds best cake, then I dont know what is. CF: DE SAE (See sae) DE SHIKANAIGrade 2 Meaning: Nothing but Notes: De shikanai is easily confused with de shikanai, as they are both translated in English as nothing but. However, shikanai means nothing else, as in He eats

nothing but vegetables, whereas de shikanai means merely, as in Nothing but a child. Example: This is nothing but an ordinary stamp. CF: shikanai DE SURA (See sura)

DE WA OKANAI (See ~nai de ha okanai) DE WA ARU/DE WA ARIMASU GA Grade 2 Meaning: But, Although. Notes: De wa aru is only used in written Japanese. De wa arimasu ga is used in formal speech. Example: Its February, but today is very warm. Its February, but today is very warm. DOKORO DE WA NAI/DOKORO DE WA NAKU Grade 2 Meaning: Theres no way, Its out of the question, There is no time to Notes: Dokoro dewa nai goes at the end of a sentence. Dokoro dewa naku goes in the middle. Example: I have no money, so theres no way I can go shopping. Taking a vacation is out of the question because Im busy everyday.

GA (~u ga ~maiga)

~GACHI Grade 2 Meaning: Tend to; Likely to Notes: Differs from gimi in that gachi describes a general tendency, whereas gimi describes a visible indication of a tendency. For example, kazegimi means a slight cold whereas kaze o hikigachi means a tendency to catch cold. Example: A tendency to be late Likely to be out of the house CF: ~gimi, ~ppoi, ~mamire, ~zukume, ~meku, ~darake, ~rashii, kirai ga aru GA HAYAI KA Grade 1 Meaning: As soon as. Notes: Basically the same as ya inaya and nari but ga hayai ka indicates that the speaker was waiting for something to happen. Example: As soon as the company president entered the meeting room, the meeting started. CF: Ya inaya, nari. GA SAIGO () Grade 1 Meaning: Once someone starts something, the person cant stop it. Notes: Easily confused with ~kiri, but the meanings are completely different and ga saigo doesnt mean for the last time. Always used with past tense verbs.

Example: It was so delicious that once I started eating, I couldnt stop. CF: kiri GATAME (see n gatame)

GATERA Grade 1 Meaning: While; partly. Notes: Easily confused with tsuide ni and katagata. Differs from tsuide ni in that in gatera, both actions are of equal importance, while in tsuide ni, one action is the main one, and the other action is done on the way or while doing the more important action. Although the meanings are completely different, they may throw in questions where both beku and gatera would be appropriate, but only one would be grammatically correct. Beku comes after a masu form verb, or a gerund. E.g. Hakamairi o suru beku, furusato ni kaetta. Katagata? Example: I went to Tokyo, partly for business and partly for sight-seeing. CF: Tsuide ni, katagata, katawara.

~GIMI ~Grade 2 Meaning: Tend to, A touch of _____, A little _____. Example: () slightly tired; ( slightly tired

CF: ~gachi, ~ppoi, ~mamire, ~zukume, ~meku, ~darake, ~rashii, kirai ga aru GOTOKU, GOTOKI Grade 1 Meaning: As; Similarly. Notes: Written, formal. Use gotoku after nouns. Gotoku and gotoki are exactly the same meaning, but differ grammatically. Use gotoki before a noun and gotoku at the end of a phrase. Gotoku is always followed by a comma. Example: As I said before, I am opposed to that plan. As is written in the above program, the meeting will take place tomorrow. GOTOKU, GOTOKI (2) Grade 1 Meaning: Like, As as Notes: Written. Formal. Use gotoku after nouns. Gotoku and gotoki are exactly the same meaning, but differ grammatically. Use gotoki before a noun and gotoku at the end of a phrase. Gotoku is always followed by a comma. Example: He is as cold as ice. Ten years passed as if it was one day. There are some things that even a person as rich as him cant buy.

H HIKIKAE (See ni hikikae)

I IE DOMO

(See to ie domo)

IKAN (See Ikanda) IKANDA, IKAN DE, IKAN NI YOTTE Grade 1 Meaning: Depending on; On the basis of. Sometimes untranslatable. Sentences like are easy to translate. In the aforementioned example, Your level will be decided on the basis of your test results. means depending on or based on. In a sentence like, , however, the meaning is less clear. If we translate it as It depends on the results of the placement test, but I dont know what will happen, it means both depending on and because of. Notes: Written. Formal. Ikande goes in the middle of a sentence. Ikanda goes at the end of the sentence. Ikan ni yotte is exactly the same as ikande and the two can by used interchangeably. Example: Your level will be decided on the basis of your ability test. Your level will be decided on the basis of your ability test. Your level will be decided on the basis of your ability test.

IKAN NI YORAZU, IKAN NI KAKAWARAZU Grade 1 Meaning: Whether or not; Unrelated to; It doesnt depend on; Regardless of. Notes: Formal. Written. Ikan ni yorazu and ikan ni kakawarazu are exactly the same. Example: We will hire anyone, regardless of what university they graduated from.

 We will hire anyone, regardless of what university they graduated from. CF:

ITARU (See ni itaru) ITARI (See ni itaru) ITATTA (See ni itataru) ITATTE (See ni itaru) K

KA (See ~u ka ~mai ka)

KAGIRI/KAGIRI NO/Grade 2 Meaning: As long as; Within the limits of; As far as. Notes: Example: Ill never forgive him as long as I live.

CF: Kagiri da. KAGIRI DA Grade 1 Meaning: Nothing but; The height of; Completely. This expression literally means that the speaker is at the limit of whatever emotion he or she is talking about. Eg. Ureshii kagiri. (The height of happiness.) Notes: Exactly the same meaning as no kiwami but the grammar is different. No kiwami always follows a noun, whereas kagiri da follows adjective. Easily confused with kagiri. However, they are different both grammatically and in meaning. Kagiri da is used to express the speakers strong emotion or feeling about something, whereas kagiri simply expresses something that is limited. An easy way to distinguish between them is to remember that kagiri comes in the middle of a sentence, whereas kagiri da comes at the end. Example: Im nothing but embarrassed. Im really, really happy because of the baby being born. CF: No kiwami, kagiri.

KAGIRI NI Grade 1 Meaning: Notes: Kagiri ni is easily confused with o kagiri ni. They are similar in meaning, but kagiri ni expresses that something is only happening now. O kagiri ni means that something is ending. To better understand the difference, compare these two sentences: Kyou o kagiri ni, 30% offu. (Today is the last day that we will offer a 30% discount.) Kyou kagiri ni 30% offu. (Today only! 30% off!). Example: CF: O kagiri ni.

KAGIRU (see ni kagiru)

KAKAWARU (see ni kakawaru) ~KAKERU, ~KAKENO, ~KAKE DA Grade 2 Meaning: Not finished; In the middle of Notes: Kakeru is for verbs, ~kakeno is a modifier for nouns (eg. tabekake no ringo, a half-eaten apple) ~Kake da is for ?? Example: I fell asleep with the book half read. In the middle of saying something. A half-eaten apple

KAKETE (see ni kakete wa or kara ni kakete KANARAZU SHI MO ~ TO WA KAGIRANAI Grade 1 Meaning: It doesnt necessarily mean that. Example: Just because someone is Japanese, it doesnt necessarily mean that he or she likes sushi. KANAWANAI Grade 1 Meaning: No match for; Cant compare with; There is no way (it can be done). Notes: Negative form of kanau.

Example: Prices are so high I cant afford anything. ~KANENAI ()Grade 2 Meaning: There is a chance that; _____ is not impossible. Only used for negative results or things you dont want to happen. Notes: Formed by using the masu form of a verb, removing the masu, and adding kanenai. Example: If you dont study hard, theres a chance you will fail. KANSHITE (see ni kanshite) KARA ARU ~Grade 1 Meaning: At least.Used for measurement of height, weight, length, etc. Notes: Example: That building is at least 500m tall.

KARA ~ NI KAKETE ~Grade 2 Meaning: From about (time/place) until about (time/place). Only used for indefinite areas or time periods. Notes: Similar to ni watatte, ni wataru, and o tsuujite, but is easy to distinguish because there will always be two times or places in the sentence. Example: Rain is expected from Kyushu to Shikoku. CF: ni watatte, ni wataru, o tsuujite KARA NI WA, KARA WA Grade 2 Meaning: Because; Since. Notes: Use kara wa after na adjectives and nouns.

Example: I have to do it because I promised. KARASHITE Grade 2 Meaning: Starting with; Especially. Used to indicate the main or most important reason or example. Similar to o hajime, but karashite is usually only used for negative things. Notes: Always follows a noun. Example: I really dislike him, especially because of his foul mouth.

KARA WA (see Kara ni wa)

~KARE () Grade 1 Meaning: It doesnt matter which; It doesnt matter whether. Notes: Exactly the came meaning as de are (2) but differs grammatically. De are is used with nouns and na adjectives, whereas ~kare is used with i adjectives. Usually written. Example: Ill have to do it sooner or later. CF: de are (2) KATAGATA Grade 1 Meaning: While. Used to express that one action has two objectives. Notes: Katagata is very similar to katawara, but katagata is usually used more formally, especially for business situations. In addition, katawara is used for things that last a long time, or situations, such as being a student, visiting a friend in the hospital, etc., whereas katagata is for actions that can be accomplished relatively quickly, such as taking a stroll, or eating a meal. Example: While visiting someone at the hospital, I visited my friend.

 I went ot see the president of the company for the dual purpose of paying my respects and giving my report on my business trip. CF: Katawara KAWAKIRI (see o kawakiri) KATAWARA ~Grade 1 Meaning: While. Used to express that two unrelated actions are being performed at the same time. Notes: Katawara is very similar to katagata, but katagata is usually used more formally, especially in business situations. In addition, katawara is used for things that last a long time, or situations, such as being a student, visiting a friend in the hospital, etc., whereas katagata is for actions that can be accomplished relatively quickly, such as taking a stroll, or eating a meal. Katawara is also similar to nagara, but katawara usually lasts longer. Example: (While studying at school, I also work part-time.) CF: Nagara, katagata. KINJIENAI (See o kinjienai) KIRAI GA ARU Grade 1 Meaning: Has a (natural) tendency to Notes: Usually has a negative meaning. Example: a tendency to exaggerate CF: ~gimi, ~gachi, ~ppoi, ~mamire, ~zukume, ~meku, ~darake, ~rashii

 KIWAMARU, KIWAMARINAI, KIWAMATTE, KIWAMATTA Grade 1 Meaning: Extremely; The height of; Knows no bounds. Always has a negative meaning. Notes: Formal. Kiwamaru and kiwamarinai are exactly the same meaning and can be used interchangeably. Kiwamatte is also the same meaning, but is used as a conjunction and is often used with the word (, feeling). Example: The height of rudeness. The film was so moving that I cried. The film was so moving that it made her seem very sad. It was a most uncomfortable conversation. KIWAMI (See no kiwami) KIWAMI DA Grade 1 Meaning: Extremely; The height of; Completely. Notes: Exactly the same meaning as kagiri da, but the grammar is different. No kiwami always follows a noun, whereas kagiri da follows an adjective. Example: This is the height of embarrassment. CF: No kiwami ~KKONAI Grade 1 Meaning: Definitely won't ... Notes: Very casual. Spoken only. Differs from wa shinai in that it is never used formally. <<check>> Example: If you don't study, you definitely won't pass. CF: wa shinai

KOSO Grade 2 Meaning: Used to add emphasis. Something like the English practice of writing a word in italics to emphasize it. E.g. He always leaves his office at exactly five oclock. Notes: The difference between koso and to wa is that koso always follows a noun, whereas to wa follows a plain form verb. Also, to wa only emphasizes surprise, whereas koso is more general. Example: I definitely want to take a trip this year. CF: To wa KOTAETE (see ni kotaete) KOTO EXPRESSIONS: (See: koto, koto da, koto ka, koto ni natte iru, to iu koto da, koto wa nai, koto ni, koto kara, koto tote, kotonaku, koto dakara, kotomo, koto de) One trick for mastering koto is remembering which expressions come in the middle of a sentence, and which are only used at the end. The following come in the middle: koto ni, koto kara, koto tote, kotonaku, koto dakara, kotomo, koto de These koto expressions always come at the end: koto, koto da, koto ka, koto ni natte iru, to iu koto da, koto wa nai.

KOTO () Grade 2 Meaning: Used to show that something is an order. Notes: Written. Formed by combining the dictionary form of a verb, or ~nai(negative) form of a verb with koto. Be careful not to confuse koto and koto da (1). Koto is used for orders, whereas koto da is used for advice. Example: Dont be late. Hes always late. He probably wont be here until three. CF: koto da, koto ni KOTO DA (1), KOTO DE WA NAI ,Grade 2

Meaning: Its obvious that __ should be done; Should. Warning or advice about things that should or should not be done. Notes: Expresses the speakers personal opinion. Example: If you want to travel, first of all, you should study English. CF: Koto, koto da (2), koto da (3) KOTO DA (2), KOTO DAKARA () Grade 2 Meaning: KnowingUsed to make a guess or an inference based on something one knows. Notes: Example: Knowing him, hell be late. CF: Koto, Koto kara, koto da (1), koto da (3) KOTO DA (3) () Grade 2 Meaning: Used to add emphasis and show how the speaker feels about some fact. Notes: Often follows adjectives which express feeling such as (ureshii), (nostalgically happy), etc. Exactly the same meaning as koto ni but goes at the end of a sentence, instead of near the beginning. Example: I graduated from university. Im really happy about it. CF: Koto ni, koto da (1), koto da (2) KOTO DA (4) (See to iu koto da) KOTO DAKARA Grade 2 Meaning: Knowing ___; Because. Used when you believe something to be true or think that something will happen based on common sense, general knowledge, or something that has happened in the past. Notes: Formed by adding no koto dakara to a noun. Example: Because its North Korea, you never know what theyre going to say. CF: Koto kara KOTO DE Grade 2 Meaning: Because. Same as koto kara but more often used in negative sentences. Notes:

Example: The fight started because of something he said. CF: koto kara, koto dakara KOTO KA Grade 2 Meaning: How ___!; What a ___! Used for exclamations. Notes: Usually follows adjectives. Sometimes follows past tense verbs. Example: How many times did I warn him?! How happy I was! What a disappointment it was. KOTO KARA Grade 2 Meaning: Because. Used for origins and causes but not ordinary sentences like Im tired because I didnt sleep. Notes: Dont confuse koto kara with koto dakara. Koto kara is for facts, whereas koto da kara is used for speculation and conjecture. Example: Because they wanted a bright, cheerful child, they named her Yoko (literally Sun Child). CF: kara, tokorokara <<check differences>>

KOTO NASHI Grade 1 Meaning: Without. Notes: Koto nashi and nashi mean exactly the same thing. Koto nashi is used to turn a verb into a noun whereas nashi is used after regular nouns. Example: I cant enjoy a party without drinking. KOTO NASHI NI See nashi ni

KOTO NI Grade 2 Meaning: Used to express the speakers strong emotion about some fact. Notes: Example: Unfortunately, that restaurant that I really like went out of business.

CF: koto da (3) KOTO NI NATTE IRU () Grade 2 Meaning: Untranslatable. Used to express that something is a rule. Notes: Example: Smoking is not allowed here. KOTO TOTE Grade 1 Meaning: Because. Often used for excuses and explanations. Notes: Always followed by bad news. Old-fashioned. Written. Formal. Example: Because it was the first time (I had tried it), I failed. This area is rural, so we dont have anything interesting. (Set phrase often used at traditional inns in the country.)

KOTO WA NAI ()Grade 2 Meaning: Dont have to. Notes: Comes after a dictionary form verb. Example: You dont have to be afraid. KUSE NI Grade 2 Meaning: Even though; But; Although; In spite of; And yet (always has a negative nuance) Notes: Usually used to complain, or show contempt/scorn Example: Even though youre capable of doing it, you dont (even) try.

MADE MO (See nai made mo)

MADE MO NAI, MADE MO NAKUGrade 1 Meaning: Theres no need to; It goes without saying that Notes: Made mo naku is used as an adverb and comes in the middle of a sentence. Made mo nai always comes at the end of a sentence. Both forms always follow a dictionary form verb. Example: I understand. Theres no need to say it. It goes without saying that she is the most intelligent student. ~MAI Grade 2 Meaning: It is not likely; __ is not expected to; Probably not Notes: Written. Formal. Example: Nobody understands. MAJIKI Grade 1 Meaning: Not allowed; Should not be done. Notes: Written. Formal. Similar to bekarazu but bekarazu always comes at the end of a sentence. Example: Using violence against a citizen of the community is something that a police officer should never do.

CF: bekarazu

MAMIRE Grade 1 Meaning: Covered in ____; ____stained Notes: Usually used for things that can be sensed or seen, always has a negative nuance. Darake is easily confused with Mamire. They are similar, but mamire means totally covered and cant be used for intangible things. You can say both chidarake and chimamire (covered in blood), hokoridarake and hokorimamire or dorodarake and doromamire (covered in mud). You can say machigaidarake (full of mistakes), and shiwadarake (covered in wrinkles) but not machigaimamire, shiwamamire and kizumamire. Both mamire and darake have negative meanings, while zukume has a positive meaning. Example: bloodstained CF: ~gimi, ~gachi, ~zukume, ~meku, ~darake, ~rashii, ~ppoi, kirai ga aru

MASHITE (see ni mo mashite)

MEGUTTE (see o megutte)

MEITA (see meku)

MEITE (see meku)

 MEKU, MEITA, MEITE () Grade 1 Meaning: ~like (e.g. springlike). Notes: Always follows a noun. Example: When it becomes springlike, people feel happy. There were a lot of springlike days this month. The weather has gradually become more sprinlike. CF: MO~BAMO/MONARAMO Grade ? Meaning: On top of that; in addition Notes: Mo~bamo is used with verbs and i keiyoushi. Monaramo is used with nouns and na keiyoushi. Example: On top of being very hot, the Kyushu summer is hot as well. On top of not liking sweet things, I also dislike meat. CF:

MONO: (See: mono da, mono ka, mono ga aru, mono o, mono de wa nai, mono demo nai, mono no, mono tomosezu, mono nara, mono dakara) One trick for mastering mono is remembering which expressions come in the middle of a sentence, and which are only used at the end. The following come in the middle: mono no, mono tomo sezu, mono nara, monodakara. These mono expressions always come at the end: mono da, mono ka, mono ga aru, mono o, mono de wa nai, mono demo nai.

MONO DA (1) ~ Grade 2 Meaning: Used to express that something is a rule, or something that everyone knows. Notes: Always used at the end of sentences. Example: Youre a student so youre supposed to study! CF: mono dewa nai, mono da (2) MONO DA (2) Grade 2 Meaning: No English equivalent. Attached to sentences in which the speaker is expressing that something is a vivid memory for him or her. Notes: Only used for good memories. Example: When I was a child, I often used to play in this park. CF: mono da (1)

MONO DAKARA, MONO DE, MONO Grade 2 Meaning: Because. Usually used when making an excuse Notes: Mono de is used in the middle of sentences. Mono dakara comes at the end of a sentence. <<check>> Example: Because I didnt have time, I havent finished preparing. <<more examples>> MONO DEMO NAI () Grade 1 Meaning: Not impossible; Not always; Not entirely. Notes: Used only at the end of a sentence. Example: If you ask for my help, its not impossible.

MONO DEWA NAI Grade 2 Meaning: Used to express that something is a rule, or is something that everyone knows. This is the negative form of mono da. Notes: Always used at the end of sentences. Example: ( ) Students are not supposed to stay out late at night! CF: mono da, mono demo nai MONO GA ARU Grade 2 Meaning: I feel that. Always expresses the speakers feeling about something. Notes: Always used in the present tense and never attached to verbs. Example: This picture has something in it that really moves me.

MONO KAGrade 2 Meaning: Used to emphasize that you will never do something again. Notes: Always comes at the end of a sentence.Mono ka sentences usually include the words nante or nanka. Example: Im never coming back to this shop again.

MONO NARA Grade 2 Meaning: If only. Used for something that is impossible. Notes: Used in the middle of a sentence. Example: If only I could become a bird, I would like to fly.

MONO O IU Meaning: What counts; The most important thing Example: Experience is what counts.

MONO NO Grade 2 Meaning: Although; Even though. Mono no is used for unexpected things or exceptions to things that usually happen. It is similar to ni mo kakawarazu but the speaker is stating a fact, rather than expressing an opinion. Mono no is different from kuse ni because when you use mono no, you are not criticizing or complaining about something. Example: Even though its fall, the temperature is 30 degrees. CF: kuse ni, ni mo kakawarazu

MO SARU KOTO NAGARA Grade 1 Meaning: A cant be ignored, but B is also important. Notes: Formal. Example: (Although the unemployment problem cant be ignored, the environment problem is also very important.

MONO TOMO SEZU (See o mono tomo sezu)

MUKE NI /MUKE NO/MUKE DA//Grade 2 Meaning: For. Notes: Muke ni comes after a verb. Muke no is always followed by a noun. Muke da is used at the very end of a sentence (or clause). Example:

A book for children. <<Examples>> N NAGARA (1), NAGARA NI, NAGARA NO Grade 1 Meaning: Since; born with. Used to express a situation or condition that is unchanged. Notes: Nagara and nagara ni are adverbs. <<difference?>> Nagara no is used with nouns. Example: He was born with poor eyesight. A handicap that has been with him since birth. The Prince has had the right of succession since birth. CF: nagara mo

NAGARA (2) Grade 2 Meaning: Although. Example: Although hes a child, hes very intelligent. Unfortunately, we lost. CF: Nagara (1), nagara mo

NAGARA MOGrade 1 Meaning: Although. Same as nagara (2) but more formal. Notes: Both nagara mo and to omikiya mean even though in English, but omoikiya refers to a situation which came out differently from the way the speaker expected. It contains the kanji (think) to it is easy to remember that it means different than I

thought it would. This difference also goes for to wa ie, to ie domo and other words which mean even though. Watch out for trick questions involving nagara mo and to ie domo. In nagara mo, the subjects of the sentence must be the same. Therefore, both San sai nagara mo hon ga jouzu ni yomeru (Even though hes only three, he can read well) and San sai to ie domo hon ga jouzu ni yomeru (same meaning). However, we can say Kugatsu to wa ie yuki ga futta (Even though its September, snow fell), but not Kugatsu nagara mo yuki ga futta. Example: Although hes a new employee, he works extremely hard. CF: Nagara ~NAI DE WA IRARENAI Grade 2 Meaning: Cant help __ing. Differs from other cant help __ing expressions in that ~nai de wa irarenai indicates the speakers emotional or sympathetic reaction to some condition or situation. Therefore, you can say, (I couldnt help giving a hand to my little sister because she was in so much trouble), but not (I couldnt help crying). Notes: Same meaning as ~zu ni wa irarenai, but less formal. Example: I stink so I really must take a shower. CF: ~te tamaranai, ~zu ni wa irarenai.

~NAI DE WA OKANAI, ~ZU NI WA OKANAI Grade 1 Meaning: Definitely have to; This cant go un__ed. Very similar to ~nai de ha sumanai and ~zu ni ha sumanai, but has a stronger, more positive nuance. An easy way to remember the difference is that sumanai is used by the person who is in the wrong or has the obligation, whereas okanai is used by the person in the right or who deserves or is owed something. Notes: Written Only. ~Nai de wa okanai and ~zu ni wa okanai mean exactly the same thing, but ~zu ni wa okanai is more formal. Example: This cant go unpunished.

CF: ~nai de wa sumanai, ~zu ni ha sumanai.

~NAI DE WA SUMANAI, ~ZU NI WA SUMANAI Grade 1 Meaning: Definitely have to do. Very similar to ~nai de ha okanai but ~nai de ha okanai has a stronger, more positive nuance. Also, ~nai de wa okanai is used in sentences written in the active voice, whereas ~nai de wa sumanai is used in the passive voice. Notes: ~nai de wa sumanai and ~zu ni wa sumanai mean exactly the same thing, but ~zu ni wa sumanai is more formal. Example: Hes the one whos at fault, so I definitely have to must not apologize. ~NAI KAGIRI Grade 2 Meaning: As long as; Until; If ___ doesnt happen. Notes: Usually followed by something negative. The negative part is sometimes omitted, but it is always understood. Example: As long as it doesnt rain, the picnic will be held. CF: ~NAI KOTO MO NAI/~NAI KOTO WA NAI / Grade 2 Meaning: Its not impossibe; I cant say it wont happen. Notes: Always follows a conditional like if. Example: If you go by bullet train, its not impossible that youll make it on time.

~NAI KOTO NI WA () Grade 2 Meaning: Have to; If you dont A, you cant B. Notes:

Example: No matter how boring it is, if you dont learn the basics, youll never progress. CF: ~Nai koto wa nai ~NAI KOTO WA NAI (See ~nai koto mo nai) ~NAI MADE MO Grade 1 Meaning: Although its not __, its still __. Even if it doesnt happen; even if its not completely. Expresses the idea that although something is not 100%, it has some redeeming qualities, is still useful, or was not a complete failure. For example, Although hes not good enough to be a professional, hes by far the best on our team. Notes: Example: Although she doesnt look like a model, shes very beautiful.

NANDEMONAI Grade 2 Meaning: Easy; trifling. Notes: An idiomatic usage of Nan demo nai, which means nothing. Example: An easy problem NAN TO IU Grade 2 Meaning: Used for adding emphasis, as in What beautiful scenery Notes: Not a question. Example: What beautiful scenery!

NAN TO ITTE MO Grade ?? Meaning: Above all (?); After all; when all is said and done; by far the most. Notes: Used to express that something is the most important or the best. Example: When it comes to learning Japanese, remembering kanji is by far the most difficult thing. CF: NAN TO KA () Grade 2 Meaning: Manage to do, do with difficulty, barely, somehow. Example: I was really tired but I somehow managed to do it through to the end. CF: ~NARA DEWA Grade 1 Meaning: ~nara dewa is used to indicate that there is no other way to do something, or that only one person or thing can do something Notes: Comes after a noun Example: This painting is so beautiful that no one but him could have done it. ~NARI (1)Grade 1 Meaning: As soon as something happened, something else unexpected happened Notes: Similar to totan, but there are two differences. The first is that after nari there will always be something unexpected. For example, you could say As soon as he got home from school, he did his homework. This is a normal thing so we use totan. If something unexpected happened, however, we would use nari. For example, As soon as he got home, he went out again. The second difference is grammatical. Totan comes after a past tense verb, while nari comes after a dictionary form verb. Example: As soon as he got home, he went out again. CF: Totan, ~ka to omou to, ~ka ~nai ka no uchi ni

~NARI (2) () Grade ? Meaning: Or. Used for advice, suggestions or requests. Notes: Toka and nari are the same meaning and can often be used interchangeably, but toka is a little stronger and is used more often. Also, toka is used for giving regular examples, but nari is used for examples in which the there is a nuance that these are just two of many possibilities. Often used twice. Cannot be used more than twice in one sentence. Example: Watch TV, take a shower make yourself at home. CF: toka, yara

~NARI NI, ~NARI NO Grade 1 Meaning: Within the limits of my ability; For a ; Do the best one can. Notes: Although the expression Watashi nari ni is very common, it should not usually used when speaking to ones elders/superiors. Example: For a beginner, he did very well. There were a lot of words I didnt know, but I did the best I could with my homework. NASHI NI, KOTO NASHI NI () Grade 1 Meaning: Without. Often used to describe actions which are inappropriate or are contrary to common sense or accepted practice. Notes: Written. Formal. Easily confused with nuki de, which is translated into English as without, but actually means, to set aside something which is usually there. To understand the difference, compare these two examples: Arukohuru nuki no paati. (A party without alcohol) Kotowari nashi ni watashi no mono o tsukata. (He used my things without asking permission).

Koto nashi ni is used when you want to use a verb as a noun. Example: No problem. He returned home without permission. He returned home without getting permission. CF: Nuki de, koto nashi. ~N BAKARI NI, ~N BAKARI NO, ~N BAKARI DA Grade 1 Meaning: About to __; on the verge of __ing; Seems to be saying Notes: Never used talk about oneself. ~N bakari ni is used for nouns. ~N bakari da always comes at the end of a sentence. Example: Although hes in the wrong, he seems to be saying that I should apologize. .Shes on the verge of tears. That area is (on the verge of) over=flowing with resources. Her lips were trembling and she seemed to be on the verge of tears.

~N GATAME/~N GATAME NO ~/Grade 2 Meaning: To have a goal. Notes: ~ngatame is the same as beku but they differ grammatically. Beku comes after the dictionary form of a verb, whereas ~ngatame follows the ~tai form of a verb. Formal. Written. Example: Im making a big effort so that I can pass the test. CF:

NI ATARANAI, NI WA ATARANAI , Grade 1

Meaning: Nothing to ____ about; Not worthy of ___. Notes: Often followed by the words involving surprise, compliments, emotions, or praise. Example: () Its not worthy of praise. NI HIKIKAE Grade 1 Meaning: In contrast with Example: In contrast to my old computer, his is very fast. NI ITARU, NI ITATTA, NI ITATTE, NI ITATTE WA (, , Grade 1 Meaning: Only after; Things became so bad that Notes: Written. Formal. The difference between ni itatte and ni itatte wa is that the wa in ni itatte wa is emphasizing the following phrase. For example Kare ni itatte wa, bi-ru o nijyuppon mo nomu sou da. (He can hold his liquor so well that he can drink 20 beers.) Example: Only after a long period of discussion was a consensus reached. Only after my temperature reached forty degrees did I go to the hospital. The number of dead reached 100.

NI ITARU MADE Grade 1 Meaning: From A to B. Starting with A and ending with B. Notes: Easily confused with ni itatte. Ni itaru made means from A to B whereas ni itatte explains the process and the final result. If you see kara in the sentence, you probably need to use ni itaru made. To better understand the difference, compare these two sentences: Hiragana kara kanji ni itaru made benkyou shita. (I studied everything from hiragana to kanji.) and Sensou ni itatte, heiwa no taisetsusa ni ki ga tsuita. (Only after the war happened did we understand the importance of peace.) Example:

CF: Ni itatte. NI ITATTA (See ni itaru)

NI ITATTE (See ni itaru

NI ITATTE MO () Grade 1 Meaning: No matter how bad/serious A was, B still happened/was done. Notes: Always used for actions which occurred in the past; cannot be used for the present or future. In addition, it is never used for minor things like No matter how sick he was, he was never absent. Example: Even though his company seemed like it was about to go bankrupt, he never became pessimistic. CF: Ni itatte.

NI ITATTE WA (See ni itaru) NI KAGIRAZU Grade 2 Meaning: Not only; Not just. Notes: Always comes after a noun. Example: This movie can be enjoyed by anyone, not just children. CF:

NI KAGIRI () Grade 2 Meaning: Only. Notes: Always comes in the middle of a sentence. Example: . () Today only. 30% Off! CF:

NI KAGIRU ~Grade 2 Meaning: The best; There is nothing better. Notes: Used for opinions, not objective things. Easily confused with ni kagitte. An easy way to remember the difference is that ni kagiru always comes at the end of a sentence whereas ni kagitte is a conjunction and therefore comes in the middle of a sentence. Example: If you want to eat okonomiyaki, theres no place like Osaka. CF: Ni kagitte.

NI KAGITTE (1) () Grade 2 Meaning: Used to express that something always happens. Always used negatively (but doesnt have to include a negative word like not or never.) Notes: Easily confused with ni kagiru because they sound alike, but the meaning is different. Ni kagiru means that something is the best whereas ni kagitte means that something always happens. In addition, it is similar in meaning to koto dakara. The difference is that ni kagitte is always negative, whereas koto dakara can be used in both positive and negative sentences. Example: You can never find a policeman when you need one. It always rains on my day off. CF: Ni kagiru, ni kagitte (2).

NI KAGITTE (2) Grade 2 Meaning: Knowing ___, he would never; Knowing ___, it wouldnt. Used to indicate that because of something the speaker knows about the person or object in question, a previous negative statement could not be true. Notes: Easily confused with koto dakara. The difference is that ni kagitte is used to deny some negative statement or idea about a person or thing, saying that it cant be true because it is something we know they would never do or that would never happen to them. Koto dakara, on the other hand, indicateds that because of something that we know about the person or companys character, another thing must be true. Ni kagitte is always used to deny some negative thing, whereas koto dakara can be used for either positive or negative things. Another difference is that koto dakara can never be used for objects. To understand the difference, compare these sentences: Uchi no ko ni kagitte, uso o tsuku hazu ga nai. (Because hes my son, I know he cant be lying.) Uchi no koto dakara, kono omocha wa ki ni iru darou. (Because hes my son, I think hell like this toy. Example: This car is a Toyota so I dont think it would have that sort of defect. CF: Ni kagitte (1), koto dakara.

NI KAKAWARAZU (See ikan ni yorazu)

NI KAKAWARU ~Grade 1 Meaning: Be concerned in; Have to do with; Take part in. Notes: Ni kakawaru implies that the things being described have a significant relationship, or that one thing has a strong influence on another. Example: ?? CF:

NI KAKETE (See kara ni kakete) NI KAKETE WA Grade 2 Meaning: When it comes to Notes: Always follows a noun. Example: ( ) When it comes to running, theres no one who can beat me.

NI KANSHITE ~Grade 2 Meaning: About. Notes: Ni tsuite and ni kanshite mean exactly the same thing, but ni kanshite is more formal. Example: He knows a lot about Japan CF: ni taishite, ni tsuite, o megutte, ni kakawaru NI KOSHITA KOTO WA NAI GA Grade 1 Meaning: Of course, __ is good, but Notes: Always follows a dictionary form verb. Example: Of course beauty is good, but character is more important. NI KOTAERU/NI KOTAETE (~) Grade 2 Meaning: In answer to; In response to. Example: In response to the wants of its citizens, the city build a new sports center.

I lived up to my parents expectations. NI MO KAKAWARAZU Grade 2 Meaning: Although. Notes: Ni mo kakawarazu is very similar to mono no and is also used in situations where something surprising or unexpected happens. The difference is that when one uses ni mo kakawarazu, you are expressing your opinion about the surprising things, whereas when one uses mono no, one is just stating a fact. Example: He graduated even though he has a handicap. CF: Mono no, kuse ni

NI MO MASHITE Grade 1 Meaning: Ni mo mashite expresses the idea that one thing is better/more important than another. Notes: Usually follows mae or izen Example: Im more worried about his illness than I am about my own problem. Shes more beautiful than before. NI SOUI NAI Grade Meaning: Surely; Certainly; Definitely; Must be. Notes: Written. Formal. Example: He is definitely the criminal.

NI SHIRO () Grade ? Meaning: It doesnt matter which; It doesnt matter whether.

Notes: De are always follows a noun or a na adjective. In the case of an I adjective, the form changes to kare. Usually written. After verbs, use ni shiro. Example: It doesnt matter whether its Japan or China, going to Asian countries is interesting. CF: de are (1), kare NI SHITATTE () Grade 1 Meaning: Even if, even. Sentences using ni shitatte will always have some negative thing which contradicts, affects or negates the first part. Notes: Similar to ~ta tokoro de butdiffers both grammatically and in usage. ~Ta tokoro de is used with past tense verbs, while ni shitatte is used with plain form verbs. Also, ~ta tokoro de is much stronger and more negative. To see the difference, compare these two sentences. Donnani ganbatta tokoro de muri darou. (No matter how much you try, its impossible). Donnani ganbaru nishitatte kantan dewanai. (No matter how much you try, it wont be easy). Example: There are questions that even a teacher cannot answer.

NI SHITE Grade 1 Meaning: Even; Only. Used to express the idea that something is only possible because a certain age/level/degree has been reached. Notes: Always follows a noun. Example: I only began to enjoy gardening when I turned fifty. CF: Ni shite wa

NI SHITE WA ~Grade 2 Meaning: For. Shows that something is relative. Ni shite wa is only used when something is different from what would normally be expected. Notes: Not usually used when speaking about oneself.

Example: For someone whos 80 years old, he looks very young. CF: Ni shite.

NI SOKU SHITE ()Grade 1 Meaning: In accordance with; In line with; Conforming to. Notes: Same as ni sotte, but more formal. Written. Formal. Example: We do the training in accordance with the manual. The thief was dealt with in accordance with the law.) CF: Ni sotte.

NI TAERU, NI TAENAI Grade 1 Meaning: Can bear; Can stand; Cant bear; Cant stand. Notes: There are often JLPT questions where both i taenai and to ittaranai would be logical (although they have different meanings), but you may have to choose between them based on grammar. To ittaranai follows only I adjectives and nouns, whereas ni taenai is used for dictionary form verbs and nouns. Also to ittaranai is casual and ni taenai is formal. Therefore, in the case of nouns, formal words like kansha (gratitude) are used with ni taenai, but less formal nouns like arigatasa would be used with to ittaranai. Eg. Kansha ni taenai. (I cant help feeling grateful). Arigatasa to ittaranai. (I cant express my thanks in words.) Shiai ni makete, kuyashii to ittaranai. (I cant express in words how much I regret losing that match.) Jiko gemba miru ni taenakatta. (I couldnt help looking at the site of the accident.) Example: I couldnt bear to watch the violent scene in that movie. CF: to ittaranai

NI TAENAI (see ni taeru)

NI TAISHITE () Grade 2 Meaning: To; Ttoward; For; Against. Notes: Be careful not to confuse ni taishite with ni tsuite, which means about. Example: a teacher who is nice to her students. rebel against ones parents. CF: Ni tsuite, ni kanshite

NI TSUITE Grade 2 Meaning: About; Regarding. Notes: Ni tsuite and ni kanshite mean exactly the same thing, but ni kanshite is only used in writing. Also, ni tsuite and ni taishite sound similar but the meaning is very different. Ni tsuite means about whereas ni taishite means towards, to, or for. Example: He knows a lot about Japan CF: Ni taishite, ni kanshite, o megutte, ni kakawaru NI TSUKE (1)Grade 2 Meaning: Whenever. Example: Whenever I see him, Im reminded of my brother. CF: ni tsuke (2)

NI TSUKE (2) Grade 1 Meaning: Whether.

Notes: Always used for sentences contrasting good situations and bad situations. The sentence always ends with an action. Therefore, a sentence like, Umaku iku ni tsuke, ikanai ni tsuke, kare wa itsumo ureshii desu (Whether things go well or badly, hes always happy) is wrong. Example: Whether things go well or badly, he always complains. CF: ni tsuke (1)

NI WA OKANAI (See nai de wa okanai) NI WATATTE, NI WATARU Grade 2 Meaning: Throughout. Shows length of time or duration.

Notes: Very similar to o tsuujite (2) and o tooshite, but only used for things that have finished. O tsuujite (2) and o tooshite are used for ongoing things. Always follows a noun. Example: I studied for the test for two months.

NI YORAZU (See ikan ni yorazu) NI YORU (See ni yotte) NI YORU TO, NI YOREBA Grade 2 Meaning: According to. Notes: Always follows a noun.

Example: According to the weather forecast, its going to rain tomorrow. NI YOTTE (1), NI YORU Grade 2 Meaning: By; At (his request); In accordance with; Under (the regulations); Because of. Notes: Always follows a noun. Example: By talking about it, we were able to solve the problem.

NI YOTTE (2) Grade 2 Meaning: By. Notes: Only used in passive sentences. Example: This book was written by Natsume Soseki. CF: Ni yotte (1)

NO ITARI Grade 1 Meaning: The best; the greatest. Notes: Formal. No kiwami and no itari mean exactly the same thing and are also exactly the same grammatically. The only difference is that no itari sounds more humble. For example, you might say, ( ) Making this kind of mistake leaves me completely red-faced. Compare this with Having a child is the happiest thing that can ever happen to you. Example: Receiving the Nobel Prize is the highest honour I could ask for. (Notice the humble language.) NO KIWAMI Grade 1 Meaning: The best; The greatest. No kiwami is also used for praising other people and talking about how happy you feel.

Notes: Formal. No kiwami and no itari mean exactly the same thing and are also exactly the same grammatically. The only difference is that no itari sounds more humble. For example, you might say, ( ) Making this kind of mistake leaves me completely red-faced. Compare this with Having a child is Example: As a scientist, the Nobel Prize is the highest honour that I could attain. CF:

NOMINARAZU Grade 2 Meaning: Not only; Not just. Notes: Same meaning as tadanominarazu, but tadanominarazu is not necessarily formal and only used in writing (nominarazu can be used in formal speech). Nominarazu and tada nominarazu are exactly the same meaning. Written. Formal. Example: We cant just think about the price. We have to think about quality to. NUKU () Grade 1 Meaning: Make an effort to finish Notes: Nuki also means without or to take off. Example: I made an effort to finish, but in the end, I couldnt finish. CF: Nuki de.

NUKI DE Grade 1 Meaning: Without. Although it is translated in English as without in order to avoid confusing it with nashi ni (see the Notes), remember it as To put aside or not use something that is usually there. Notes: Easily confused with nashi ni, which means without. To understand the difference, compare these two examples:

Arukohuru nuki no paati. (A party without alcohol) Kotowari nashi ni watashi no mono o tsukata. (He used my things without asking permission). Example: I like my hamburgers without ketchup. CF: nashi ni

O O HAJIME, O HAJIME TO SURU Grade 2 Meaning: First; Most important; First and foremost; Especially. Used to indicate that the first thing in the list is the most important one. Notes: Written only. Example: I Have been helped by everyone in this school, but especially by Mr. Tanaka. O KAGIRI NI Grade 1 Meaning: Only until; This is the last Notes: O kagiri ni is easily confused with kagiri ni. They are similar in meaning, but kagiri ni expresses that something is only happening now. O kagiri ni means that something is ending. To better understand the difference, compare these two sentences: Kyou o kagiri ni, 30% offu. (Today is the last day that we will offer a 30% discount.) Kyou kagiri ni 30% offu. (Today only! 30% off!). Example: We cheered at the top of our lungs. CF: Kagiri ni.

OKANAI (See ~nai de wa okanai)

O KAWA KIRI ~Grade 1 Meaning: Starting with. Notes: Example: The tour started with Tokyo and went all over Japan. O KINJIENAI () Grade 1 Meaning: Cant help feeling ____. Only used for feelings. Notes: Written only. Example: I cant help feeling sorry for the orphans. O MEGUTTE ~Grade 2 Meaning: About; Concerning. Usually used for arguing or disagreeing. Notes: Example: ( ). They argued about the environment problem. CF: ni taishite, ni kanshite, o megutte, ni kakawaru

OMOI KIYA (see to omoikiya)

O MONO TOMO SEZU NI () Grade 1 Meaning: Overcome; Succeed in spite of __; Make an effort in spite of __. Notes: Not used when talking about oneself. Always comes in the middle of a sentence, never at the end. Example: In spite of the typhoon, he went out of the house.

~O MOTTE (1) ~Grade 1 Meaning: Use; Utilize; By; Through Notes: ~O motte has two meanings. See the next entry for the other meaning. Example: I solved the problem by making a big effort. We will notify you through the mail. ~O MOTTE (2) Grade 1 Meaning: At. Indicates time. Used instead of the particle de in formal speech. For example, in ordinary speech, you would say, The shop closes at 6. In formal speech, however, you say, Notes: Formal Example: Today is the close of the training period.

~O OITE ~Grade 1 Meaning: But; Except. Implies that this is the best or only person or thing. Notes: Formal Example: There is no one who can do it except him.

OROKA (See wa oroka)

O TOUSHITE Grade 2

Meaning: Through. Notes: <<vs. o tsuujite>> Example: The chance that a disaster would occur was reported in the mass media. CF: O tsuujite

O TSUUJITE (1)Grade 2 Meaning: By; by way of; through. Notes: Is very similar to, and can usually be used interchangeably with o tooshite, Differs from ni watatte in the ni watatte always follows a noun which expresses the duration of the action. Example: I heard about it through a friend.

O TSUUJITE (2) O YOGI NAKU SARETA Grade 1 Meaning: Be made to; Be forced to. Notes: Written only. Example: He was forced to resign. O YOSO NI Grade 1 Meaning: Ignore; Neglect. Notes: Always follows a noun. Example: Ignoring his work, he talked to his coworkers. P

~PPANASHI Grade 1

Meaning: Do something for too long; Leave something on. Always negative. Notes: Always follows the masu form of a verb. Example: Talk for too long Sleep too long Leave the lights on.

~PPOI Grade 2 Meaning: ~like; Like a ___, ~ish Notes: Many people confuse ppoi and rashii. The best way to remember the difference is the words otokoppoi and otokorashi. A mannish woman is otokoppoi it has a negative nuance and it is describing the woman as having some characteristics of a man, while not actually being a man. A manly man is Otokorashii. He is not being compared to a man, he is a man and has the characteristics associated with being one. ~ppoi is usually used negatively. Also used for colours. eg. shiroppoi means whitish) Example: forgetful, childish, cheap, cheesy whiteish CF: ~gimi, ~gachi, ~mamire, ~zukume, ~meku, ~darake, ~rashii, kirai ga aru R

~RASHII ()Grade 2 Meaning: ~like, like a ___, ~ly Notes: Many people confuse ppoi and rashi. The best way to remember the difference is the words otokoppoi and otokorashi. A mannish woman is otokoppoi it has a negative nuance and it is describing the woman as having some characteristics of a man, while not actually being a man. A manly man is Otokorashi. He is not being compared to a man, he is a man and has the characteristics associated with being one. Also means I heard that (Ashita kuru rashii I heard hes coming tomorrow) Example:

gentlemanly Truly Osakan CF: ~gimi, ~gachi, ~ppoi, ~mamire, ~zukume, ~meku, ~darake, ~rashii, kirai ga aru S

SAE, DE SAE Grade 2 Meaning: Even, not even, even though, although. Notes: Exactly the same as sura, but sae is more common. Sae and de sae mean the same thing, but de sae is used after words that express time, situations, and positions. Examples: 15 15Even though its winter, the temperature is 15 degrees. (situation) Even the teacher couldnt answer the question. (position) I dont have even a single yen. Even a child can do it. Even a child can do it. Im so busy I dont even have time to cook. CF: Sura

SURA/DE SURA Grade 1 Meaning: Even. Used for emphasis.

Notes: Exactly the same as sae and de sae. Sura and de sura are the same meaning but there is a tendency to use de sura and de sae with positions such as child, teacher, professor, etc. All forms follow a noun. Example: CF: Sae, de sae.

~SAKARI Grade 1 Meaning: In full swing, at the height of ones powers, the peak season Example: A mathematician is at the height of his powers and does his most successful work while hes in his twenties. SAKIDACHI Grade 1 Meaning: To come before, go ahead of, precede Example: Family comes before money.

SARU KOTO NAGARA (See Mo saru koto nagara) SHIKANAI Grade 2 Meaning: nothing but Notes: Shikanai is easily confused with de shikanai, as they are both translated in English as nothing but. However, shikanai means nothing else, as in He eats nothing but vegetables, whereas de shikanai means merely, as in Nothing but a child. Example: There is nothing but stamps in his collection. CF: de shikanai SHIKARU NI ~Grade 1 Meaning: In spite of that. Notes: Exactly the same as sore na no ni but much more formal.

Example: I reminded him of it many times, but in spite of that, he forgot. SHIMATSU DA Grade 1 Meaning: Finally, on top of that. Used to describe when something bad becomes worse. Example: On top of getting divorced, I got fired from my job.

SHITE MO (see to shite mo) ~SEZARU O ENAIGrade 2 Meaning: Have no choice but to Notes: Formal. Example: My grades are bad so I have no choice but to repeat the year. ~SOBA KARA ~Grade 1 Meaning: as soon as Notes: ~Soba kara is very similar to ~totan and ~nari. The difference is that ~soba kara is used for things that happen over and over whereas ~totan and ~nari are used for things that only happened once. For example, if you want to say, As soon as I tidy up my house, my children mess it up you would use ~soba kara, but if you want to say, As soon as he got home he went out again, you would use ~nari. Example: As soon as I get my apartment tidy, the children mess it up. SOKU (see ni soku shite)

 SOUI (See ni soi nai) ~SOU MO NAI Grade 1 Meaning: Its probably impossible. Notes: Formed by taking a masu form verb, removing the masu and adding ~sou mo nai. Eg. ikisou mo nai. Example: Its probably impossible for me to make the train. ~SOU NA MONO DA Grade 2 Meaning: Expect, should be Notes: Example: (It should be able to be done.)

SUE NI, SUE NOGrade 2 Meaning: After a lot of Used to describe an effort that was made, and its results. Notes: Same meaning as ageku but can be used in both positive and negative situations. Ageku is always used negatively. Example: After studying all night, I finished my essay. CF: ageku

SURA/DE SURA Grade 1 Meaning: Even. Used for emphasis. Notes: Exactly the same as sae and de sae. Sura and de sura are the same meaning but there is a tendency to use de sura and de sae with positions such as child, teacher, professor, etc. All forms follow a noun. Example: Even a child can do it. Even a child can do it.

 Im so busy I dont even have time to cook. 15 15Even though its winter, the temperature is 15 degrees. (situation) Even the teacher couldnt answer the question. (position) CF: Sae, de sae. T TADANOMI () Grade 1 Meaning: The only thing. Emphasizes that something is the only thing that is important, or the only way to succeed. Notes: Formal. Written. Example: That is the only mistake. CF: Tadanominarazu

TADANOMINARAZU() Grade 1 Meaning: Not just; not only Notes: Same meaning as nominarazu, but not necessarily formal and only used in writing (nominarazu can be used in formal speech). Written only. Example: This product isnt just economical, its also environmentally friendly. CF: nominarazu, tadanomi

TAERU, TAENAI

(See ni taeru, ni taenai)

TAISHITE (see ni taishite) ~TARITOMO Grade 1 Meaning: not even Notes: Formal. Written. Example: I cant waste even one minute.

~TA TOKORO Grade 2 Meaning: When I, because I. Notes: When differentiating between tokoro o and ~ta tokoro, remember that tokoro follows adjectives and plain form verbs, while ~ta tokoro follows a past tense verb. Example: When I visited my friends house, he was out. CF: ~ta tokoro de, tokoro ~TA TOKORO DE Grade 2 Meaning: Even if, now matter how Notes: ~Ta tokoro de is used in situations where doing an action is futile. For example, Even though I ran, I couldnt catch the train. It is very similar to Tatoe demo and both come out the same in English but the difference is that ~ta tokoro de always indicates that the action is futile. Tatoe demo may be futile, but is not necessarily so. For example,

(), which means, Even if you dont have money, you can enjoy a pleasant lifestyle. Example: ( ) No matter how much I explained ithe didnt understand. CF: ~ta tokoro ~TE KARA TO IU MONO Grade 1 Meaning: Ever since. Notes: Always follows a verb. Example: I havent slept in a bed since I came to Japan.

~TE YAMANAI Grade 1 Meaning: Unending, never ending. Used when you are offering a prayer for a person, or a strong hope that something good will happen to someone. Notes: Formal Example: The (appreciative) ovation went on for a long time. I will never stop wishing that you will get healthy again soon.

TO AREBA Grade 1 Meaning: If its for, if Notes: Formal Example: If its for charity, Ill donate as much as you want. TO BAKARI NI () Grade 1 Meaning: As if to say. Used to show something that is unsaid through ones actions. Notes: Always used with plain form verbs or na adjectives

Example: He looked at his watch as if to say that he wanted to go home. CF: bakari ni, ~n bakari ni, ~n bakari no, ~n bakari da TO IE DOMO Grade 1 Meaning: Even, no matter how, even the most. Notes: Formal. Written. To wa ie and to ie domo are very similar and can usually be used interchangeably. To wa ie can always be replaced with to ie domo, but not vice versa. This is because to ie domo has two meanings. The first, even though or although is the same as to wa ie. The second meaning, even (as in even a child) is different and it cannot be replaced with to wa ie. Watch out for words like tatoe, ikani, donna ni or ikura. They usually indicate that the meaning is even and in sentences containing these words (which usually come at the beginning), you can only use to ie domo. Compare these examples: Even though youre a child, you shouldnt act irresponsibly. Even though youre a child, you shouldnt act irresponsibly. Example: Even the most evil person has some good points. CF: to ie domo (2), to wa ie

TO IE DOMO Grade 1 Meaning: But (always followed by some opposite thing). Notes: Formal. Example: Even though hes a student, he never studies. CF: to ie domo (1) TO ITTARA NAI, TO ITTARA ARI WA SHINAI Grade 1

Meaning: To be at a loss for words, to be unable to describe in words Notes: ~to ittara nai can be used for both positive and negative things, but ~to ittara ari wa shinai is usually used negatively. Watch out for trick questions involving nagara mo and to ie domo. In nagara mo, the subjects of the sentence must be the same. Therefore, both San sai nagara mo hon ga jouzu ni yomeru (Even though hes only three, he can read well) and San sai to ie domo hon ga jouzu ni yomeru (same meaning). However, we can say Kugatsu to wa ie yuki ga futta (Even though its September, snow fell), but not Kugatsu nagara mo yuki ga futta. Example: Im at a loss for words to describe its magnificence. TO IU MONO DA Grade 2 Meaning: No good English equivalent. In most sentences, it should be left out if you translate it to English, but it is sort like in my opinion or from what I can see or from what I know. Notes: Never used with past tense or negative forms. Used for things that happen many times, continuing situations, or peoples characters. Example: He disappointed me. For that reason, it will be hard to rely on him. CF: To iu koto da. TO IU KOTO DA Grade 2 Meaning: I heard that, It is said that, they say. Example: I head on the weather report that the weather will be nice tomorrow. TO IU MONO DE MO NAI, TO IU MONO DE WA NAI Grade 2 Meaning: Not necessarily, just __ing isnt enough, its not just a matter of Notes: To iu mono de mo nai and to iu mono de wa nai mean the same thing, but to iu mono de wa nai is stronger. Example: Just eating less wont make you healthy.

TO IU TOKORO DA, TO ITTA TOKORO DA Grade 1 Meaning: At the very most Notes: To iu tokoro da and to itta tokoro da are exactly the same. Example: My monthly salary is, at most, 300 000 yen.

TOKA Grade 2 Meaning: I heard that. Short for to kikimashita. Notes: Less certain than sou da and to iu koto da. Example:

TOKATOKA Grade 2 Meaning: Such as, like. Used when giving examples. Only used for subjective things like expressing ones likes and dislikes, opinion, advice, etc. Similar to yara but yara is used for giving examples of some sort of condition or situation. For example: I like things like coffee and tea. Compare this with: We have things like coffee and tea. Toka and nari are the same meaning and can often be used interchangeably, but toka is a little stronger and is used more often. Also, toka is used for giving regular examples, but nari is used for examples in which the there is a nuance that these are just two of many possibilities. Example: I want to go somewhere like Thailand or Vietnam. CF: yara TOKITARA Grade 1 Meaning: No clear English equivalent. Used for expressing dissatisfaction with something (or someone). Often used for making negative comparisons to something else. Notes:

Example: As for that teacher, his teaching is really bad. The child next door is an excellent student. Our child, on the other hand, doesnt study at all.

TOKORO (see ~ta tokoro, ~ta tokoro de, tokoro data, tokoro o, to iu tokoro da)

TOKORO DATTA Grade 2 Meaning: Almost, something bad almost happened. Always used negatively. Notes: Often used with mou sukoshi de Example: I almost died. TOKORO O Grade 1 Meaning: When; while; even though. Notes: Used for apologizing. Example: Im sorry to disturb you when youre so busy. TO MO NARU TO, TO MO NAREBA Grade 1 Meaning: when one becomes ____, when ____ comes Notes: Example: When the spring comes, the cherry blossoms bloom. If you become the president, youll get a really good salary.

TO OMOI KIYA Grade 1 Meaning: contrary to what I thought Notes: Not usually used in formal writing or formal speech. Both nagara mo and to omikiya mean even though in English, but omoikiya refers to a situation which came out differently from the way the speaker expected. It contains the kanji (think) to it is easy to remember that it means different than I thought it would. This difference also goes for to wa ie, to ie domo and other words which mean even though. Example: Although hes a new employee, he works extremely hard. Although I thought the Tigers were going to lose, they won the championship.

TOSHITARA, TO SUREBA, TO SURU TO Grade 2 Meaning: Suppose, supposing, if. Notes: To sureba and to suru to are often used in questions. Example: If you had one million yen, what would you buy? Im very busy this week, so if Im going to go, today is the only day.

TOSHITE Grade 2 Meaning: Even, even though, even if, granting that Notes: ~Toshite is always used in a sentence with a , question word such as nani, paired with ichi or hitsotsu (eg. dare hittori). The pattern for making a sentence with toshite is question word + 1 + toshite + ~nai. It is almost exactly the same in meaning as to ie do mo but to ie do mo doesnt use the gimonshi pattern and is more formal. See also the note on ~toshite mo. Example: After the fire, not even one person was left alive.

 TOSHITE MO, ~NI SHITE MO Grade 2 Meaning: Granting that, even if, no matter how __ Notes: Same meaning as tatoe ~temo. Similar to ~toshite (meaning #1), ~tari to mo, and to ie do mo but when you make a sentence using toshite mo, you are indicating that the action was useless or ineffective. For example, Even if I study, Im going to fail. Example: Even if I go, it wont be until 8. CF: tatoe ~te mo, ~toshite, ~tari to mo, ~to ie do mo TO SUREBA, TO SURUTO Grade 2 Meaning: Supposing, if Notes: Same as ~toshitara Example: Would you buy it if I lowered the price? If there is a chance we might fail, lets not do it.

TOTAN Grade 2 Meaning: As soon as Notes: Similar to nari, but there are two differences. The first is that after nari there will always be something unexpected. For example, As soon as he got home, he went out again. Totan does not have this nuance of being used for something unexpected. You could say, As soon as he got home from school, he did his homework. This is a normal thing so we use totan. The second difference is grammatical. Totan comes after a past tense verb, while nari comes after a dictionary form verb. Example: As soon as he got home from school, he did his homework. CF: ~nari, ~ka to omou to, ~ka ~nai ka no uchi ni TOSHITARA Grade 2

Meaning: Supposing, if Notes: Same as ~to sureba and ~to suru to Example: If I had 1,000,000 yen TOOSHITE (see o tooshite)

TO WA Grade 1 Meaning: No good literal translation exists, but it is used to add emphasis to a sentence and show surpise. In English, it might be I cant believe that or I was surprised to hear that. Similar to writing something in italics to emphasize it. E.g. He always goes home at exactly five oclock. Notes: Always follows a plain form verb. Example: I never expected to win. CF: Koso, to wa ie TO WA IE Grade 1 Meaning: Its called a __, but its actually more of a __; although _______ is true in general, its not completely true. Usually (but not always) followed by the speakers opinion or judgment. Notes: This is the formal version of to itte mo. The meanings are exactly the same. To wa ie and to ie domo are very similar and can usually be used interchangeably. To wa ie can always be replaced with to ie domo, but not vice versa. This is because to ie domo has two meanings. The first, even though or although is the same as to wa ie. The second meaning, even (as in even a child) is different and it cannot be replaced with to wa ie. Therefore, you can say Shinnnyuu shain to wa ie, tegiwa ga ii (For a new worker, hes very skilled) but not Shinnyuu shain to ie domo, tegiwa ga ii (Even if hes a new worker, hes very skilled).

Watch out for words like tatoe, ikani, donna ni or ikura. They usually indicate that the meaning is even and in sentences containing these words (which usually come at the beginning), you can only use to ie domo. Compare these examples: Even though youre a child, you shouldnt act irresponsibly. Even though youre a child, you shouldnt act irresponsibly. Example: Although hes a student he doesnt study much. Although shes beautiful, shes not good-looking enough to say she could be a model. CF: To itte mo, to wa

TSUIDE NI Grade 2 Meaning: while, have the chance to, on ones way to somewhere, one did something else Tsuide ni is used to express the idea that while a person was doing one thing, he or she had a chance to do something else. For example, While I was on a business trip, I visited my friends house. Notes: Its easy to confuse tsuide ni with gatera. The difference is that with gatera, both actions are of equal importance. Example: (While on my way to work, I mailed a letter at the post office.) CF: gatera

TSUITE (see ni tsuite)

~TSU ~TSU Grade 2 Meaning: __ing and __ing. Used for alternating opposites like coming and going or rising and falling. Notes: Used with masu form verbs.

Example: The marathon became a race where the leader overtook and was overtaken many times.

TSUUJITE (see o tsuujite)

UE DE (1)~Grade 2 Meaning: for, so that, to ___ Notes: Differs from you ni in that you ni expresses the speakers hope that some action or thing will be effective in achieving a goal or result whereas ue de expresses that something will be useful for achieving an important goal. Example: I decided after giving it much thought. CF: You ni, Ue wa, Ue ni ~UE DE (2) Grade 2 Meaning: ~Ue de means after doing something, doing another thing based on the previous action. Notes: Example: I will decide after consulting with my parents.

~UE WA (~) Grade 2 Meaning: Since, because, now that, once you have, as long as Because of A, B must be done Notes: Example:

Because I promised, I have to go. CF: Ue wa, Ue ni

~U GA ~MAI GA Grade ? Meaning: Whether or not Notes: Very similar to ~u ka ~mai ka. Both mean whether in English. The difference between them is that in ~u ka ~mai ka, the person is deciding which of the two actions to perform (eg. whether or not to buy something) whereas in ~u ga ~mai ga, it is not necessarily a decision. Example: Whether he goes or not, it doesnt make any difference to me. CF: ~u ka ~mai ka

~U KA ~MAI KAGrade ? Meaning: Whether or not Notes: Very similar to ~u ga ~mai ga. Both mean whether in English. The difference between them is that in ~u ka ~mai ka, the person is deciding which of the two actions to perform (eg. whether or not to buy something) whereas in ~u ga ~mai ga, it is not necessarily a decision. Example: Im having trouble deciding whether or not to buy it. CF: ~u ga ~mai ga

W WAKE NI WA IKANAI Grade 2 Meaning: Impossible. WARI NI WA Grade 2

Meaning: for, expresses relative things Notes: Example: She looks young for her age.

WA OROKA Grade 1 Meaning: not evenmuch less, not even let alone(as in I dont even have a radio, much less a TV) Notes: The construction of this structure in Japanese is opposite to the English. In English we put the more difficult to obtain/better one first, where as in Japanese, the lesser one comes in the beginning and the better one is at the end. Example: We dont even have a TV, much less a VCR. WA SHINAI () Grade 2?? Meaning: definitely will not do it. Notes: Differs from ~kkonai in that... Example: It's okay to touch him. He won't bite. CF: ~kkonai

YAMANAI (See ~te yamanai) YARA Grade 2

Meaning: Used to give a negative emphasis to a sentence. For example: I have no idea what he is saying! Example: I have no idea what he is saying! YARAYARA Grade 2 Meaning: such as, like. Used when giving examples. Only used for objective things like giving examples of some sort of condition or situation. Similar to toka but toka is used for subjective things such as expressing ones likes and dislikes, opinion, advice, etc. For example: I like things like coffee and tea. Compare this with: We have things like coffee and tea. Example: CF: toka YOGINAKU SARETA (See o yoginaku sareta) YORAZU (See ikan ni yorazu)

YOU NI Grade 2 Meaning: So that, for the purpose of, to __. Notes: Always follows the dictionary form of a verb. Example: Im studying in order to pass the test. YOSO NI (See o yoso ni)

~ZUKUME Grade 1 Meaning: all in (black/white), nothing but ____, a lot of, continuing Notes: Both mamire and darake have negative meanings, while zukume often (but not always) has positive meaning. It is used for black and white, but not other colours. Example: all in black (clothes) one good thing after another, CF: ~gimi, ~gachi, ~ppoi, ~mamire, ~zukume, ~meku, ~darake, kirai ga aru ~ZU NI WA IRARENAI Grade 2 Meaning: Cant help __ing. Differs from other cant help __ing expressions in that ~nai de wa irarenai indicates the speakers emotional or sympathetic reaction to some condition or situation. Therefore, you can say, (I stink so I really feel like taking a shower), but not (I couldnt help crying). Notes: Same meaning as ~nai de wa irarenai, but more formal. Example: Once I started reading that book, I couldnt stop until I finished it. CF: ~te tamaranai, ~nai de wa irarenai