I haven't posted on here for a few months now (and I feel like I've broken some law in doing so), but it's for a good reason, I swear. The last post I made before this was actually the very last grammar point in all of Tobira. So hurray! I actually completed it!
And to be honest, I am proud that I completed it, because it was not an easy book. Let's compare it to something like Genki - not only are the grammar points in Genki pretty basic and intuitive (at least it feels that way now), but they're also covered way more within each lesson. This includes pretty detailed explanations and example sentences with English translations so you know you're on the right track. It holds your hand.
In contrast, Tobira does not hold your hand. It gives a very concise explanation for each grammar point and follows that with 4-5 example sentences. It's not lacking, but it's quite succinct. The usage of that grammar point could vary a decent amount within those sentences, and so it's up to you to figure out that usage and translate the sentences on your own. This forces your brain to do a lot more work across each chapter (well, that and the fact that each chapter contains 15+ new points).
So, do I feel better or more knowledgeable when it comes to ~N3 level Japanese grammar now? Well actually, I think I do. I know there are some points from the book that I may've forgotten due to their specificity, but there were many more broad, commonly-used points that I've begun to internalize. I can see this now in my reading comprehension and in my Japanese knowledge in general.
Does that mean I'd consider myself ready to pass the N3 test? Probably not. I've never even taken a practice test, and so I'd probably be a little lost at first in terms of the types of questions being asked. But I think if I buckled down and prepared for it that it'd certainly be possible. Now it's mostly a question of whether I have any desire to do so.
I'm not really sure if I do want to, to be honest. Perhaps I'll consider it if I reach near fluency at some point and I want to be able to add that skill to my resume. But right now, a certificate for N4 or N3 would do me little good and would mostly stress me out when combined with all the other stuff that's going on in my life right now. So I think I'll stay where I am for the time being.
Of course, that doesn't mean that I've stopped my studies at all. I'm back on a regular study schedule now, doing WaniKani, Anki, reading, and some listening practice almost every day. I would like to broaden my reading practice with something more interesting like a light novel, but I also need to improve my vocabulary to make reading less painful. I suppose I should continue working on that right now...
Thursday, September 27, 2018
Wednesday, June 27, 2018
しかたがない and しょうがない
A word in the て form plus しかたがない or しょうがない literally means that there is a situation occurring with no way to escape it. These are generally used when the speaker wants to express that they can't control their reaction to something, or that they can't bear it. The latter is more colloquial. It often translates as "can't help X-ing", "can't stop feeling X", or simply "so" (to heighten the feeling being described).
昨日は、4時間しか寝られなかったので、眠くてしようがない。
Yesterday I could only get 4 hours of sleep, so I'm totally exhausted today.
来年、日本に行けることになったので、嬉しくてしょうがない。
It turns out that I can go to Japan next year, so I'm over the moon.
昨日から頭が痛くてしかたがない。メガネが合わないのかもしれない。
My head's been hurting terribly since yesterday. My glasses may not be right.
あの先生の講義は退屈でしょうがない。
That teacher's lectures are so boring.
昨日は、4時間しか寝られなかったので、眠くてしようがない。
Yesterday I could only get 4 hours of sleep, so I'm totally exhausted today.
来年、日本に行けることになったので、嬉しくてしょうがない。
It turns out that I can go to Japan next year, so I'm over the moon.
昨日から頭が痛くてしかたがない。メガネが合わないのかもしれない。
My head's been hurting terribly since yesterday. My glasses may not be right.
あの先生の講義は退屈でしょうがない。
That teacher's lectures are so boring.
何から何まで
The expression 何から何まで can be used to mean "all", "anything and everything", or something similar to the English "from A to Z." It's a more emphatic way to express the general meaning of "all."
この製品に使われている物は、何から何までリサイクルできます。
Anything and everything that's used in this product can be recycled.
このアパートはできたばかりなので、何から何まで全部新しい。
This apartment was just built, so everything is new from top to bottom.
信じていた人にだまされて、何から何まで信じられなくなった。
I was deceived by someone whom I believed, and now I can't trust anything at all.
彼女はフランス語のことなら何から何まで知っている。
She knows French inside and out.
この製品に使われている物は、何から何までリサイクルできます。
Anything and everything that's used in this product can be recycled.
このアパートはできたばかりなので、何から何まで全部新しい。
This apartment was just built, so everything is new from top to bottom.
信じていた人にだまされて、何から何まで信じられなくなった。
I was deceived by someone whom I believed, and now I can't trust anything at all.
彼女はフランス語のことなら何から何まで知っている。
She knows French inside and out.
Tuesday, June 26, 2018
Verb stem + っぱなし
A verb stem + っぱなし can be used to express that something keeps happening, or someone keeps doing something, with that action often being something unfavorable. It can also express that someone started an action but didn't finish it properly. It's generally used in casual speech.
うちのチームは今日までずっと勝ちっぱなしだ。今シーズンはぜんぜん負けていない。
Up to today our team keeps on winning. We haven't lost at all this season.
疲れていたので、テレビをつけっぱなしにして寝てしまった。
Since I was tired, I kept leaving the TV on and falling asleep.
お湯をわかしっぱなしで忘れて寝てしまい、火事になりそうになった。
I left the water boiling, forgot about it and went to bed, and it looks like I ended up with a fire.
ルームメートはまた食べた皿を出しっぱなしのまま学校に行ってしまった。
My roommate keeps leaving out her plates that she's eaten from, and then going off to school.
うちのチームは今日までずっと勝ちっぱなしだ。今シーズンはぜんぜん負けていない。
Up to today our team keeps on winning. We haven't lost at all this season.
疲れていたので、テレビをつけっぱなしにして寝てしまった。
Since I was tired, I kept leaving the TV on and falling asleep.
お湯をわかしっぱなしで忘れて寝てしまい、火事になりそうになった。
I left the water boiling, forgot about it and went to bed, and it looks like I ended up with a fire.
ルームメートはまた食べた皿を出しっぱなしのまま学校に行ってしまった。
My roommate keeps leaving out her plates that she's eaten from, and then going off to school.
Sentence + っけ
The add-on っけ can be used at the end of a sentence as a question marker in very casual situations. If it's used after a non-past verb, adjective, or ない, then んだ must be added before っけ.
この漢字って、どう読むんだっけ？
How do you read this kanji?
マイクさん、今、どこの大学に留学してたっけ？
Where's the university Mike's doing his studying abroad at?
この豆腐、古そうだよ。いつ買ったんだっけ？
This tofu seems old. When'd you buy it?
あのレストラン、おいしかったっけ？
Was that restaurant good?
この漢字って、どう読むんだっけ？
How do you read this kanji?
マイクさん、今、どこの大学に留学してたっけ？
Where's the university Mike's doing his studying abroad at?
この豆腐、古そうだよ。いつ買ったんだっけ？
This tofu seems old. When'd you buy it?
あのレストラン、おいしかったっけ？
Was that restaurant good?
Monday, June 25, 2018
と同時に
The expression と同時に can be used to express that an event takes place at the same time as another event, or that two separate situations are both simultaneously the case. It can be translated as "as soon as", "at the same time", "as well", or "also."
電車のドアが開くと同時に、多くの人が降りて来た。
The moment the train's doors opened, a bunch of people got off.
新しいゲームソフトは発売されると同時に、全部売れてしまった。
As soon as the new game was put on sale, it sold out completely.
12月に入ると同時に、急に寒くなった。
It quickly became cold as soon as we entered December.
この絵本は読んで面白いと同時に、考えさせられる。
I read this picture book and it was interesting, and it also made me think.
電車のドアが開くと同時に、多くの人が降りて来た。
The moment the train's doors opened, a bunch of people got off.
新しいゲームソフトは発売されると同時に、全部売れてしまった。
As soon as the new game was put on sale, it sold out completely.
12月に入ると同時に、急に寒くなった。
It quickly became cold as soon as we entered December.
この絵本は読んで面白いと同時に、考えさせられる。
I read this picture book and it was interesting, and it also made me think.
かえって
The word かえって can be used in a sentence when a result occurs that is contrary to your expectations. Though it can be translated literally as "on the contrary" or "rather", that often doesn't fit well into English sentences.
頭が痛かったので薬を飲んだら、かえってひどくなったしまった。
When I took some medicine since my head hurt, my head instead became worse.
急いでいたのでタクシーに乗ったら、道が混んでいて、かえって遅くなってしまった。
When I hurried so I could get a taxi, the road was crowded, and so I ended up going even slower.
よく切れない包丁はかえって危ないよ。
A kitchen knife that does not cut often is actually dangerous.
友達と大げんかをしたら、その後、かえって仲良くなった。
When I got in a huge fight with my friend, afterwards, we actually became closer.
頭が痛かったので薬を飲んだら、かえってひどくなったしまった。
When I took some medicine since my head hurt, my head instead became worse.
急いでいたのでタクシーに乗ったら、道が混んでいて、かえって遅くなってしまった。
When I hurried so I could get a taxi, the road was crowded, and so I ended up going even slower.
よく切れない包丁はかえって危ないよ。
A kitchen knife that does not cut often is actually dangerous.
友達と大げんかをしたら、その後、かえって仲良くなった。
When I got in a huge fight with my friend, afterwards, we actually became closer.
Friday, June 22, 2018
以来
The word 以来 can be used with て form verbs or with nouns to refer to a specific time in the past. It usually translates as "since."
大学に入って以来、高校時代の友達に一度も会っていない。
Since I started college, I haven't seen my high school friends a single time.
携帯電話が登場して以来、街の公衆電話が少なくなった。
Since the introduction of cell phones, the number of pay phones in cities has decreased.
9/11以来、飛行機に乗る時のセキュリティチェックがとても厳しくなった。
Since 9/11, the security checks done when flying have become very strict.
父は10年前に亡くなった。それ以来、母は一人で私達兄弟を育ててくれた。
My father passed away before I was 10. Since then, my mother has raised my siblings and I by herself.
大学に入って以来、高校時代の友達に一度も会っていない。
Since I started college, I haven't seen my high school friends a single time.
携帯電話が登場して以来、街の公衆電話が少なくなった。
Since the introduction of cell phones, the number of pay phones in cities has decreased.
9/11以来、飛行機に乗る時のセキュリティチェックがとても厳しくなった。
Since 9/11, the security checks done when flying have become very strict.
父は10年前に亡くなった。それ以来、母は一人で私達兄弟を育ててくれた。
My father passed away before I was 10. Since then, my mother has raised my siblings and I by herself.
たった
The word たった can be used with numbers or counters to emphasize the small number or amount of the noun that follows.
昨日は大雪で、授業に来た学生はたったの四人だった。
Because of the heavy snow yesterday, there were only 4 students who came to class.
インスタントラーメンは、たった3分でできるので便利です。
Instant ramen can be made in only three steps, so it's really handy.
あの喫茶店ではコーヒーがたったの200円で飲めるそうだ。
I hear you can get coffee at that cafe for only 200 yen.
先月は忙しくて、たった二日しか、休めなかった。
I was so busy last month that I could only take 2 days off.
昨日は大雪で、授業に来た学生はたったの四人だった。
Because of the heavy snow yesterday, there were only 4 students who came to class.
インスタントラーメンは、たった3分でできるので便利です。
Instant ramen can be made in only three steps, so it's really handy.
あの喫茶店ではコーヒーがたったの200円で飲めるそうだ。
I hear you can get coffee at that cafe for only 200 yen.
先月は忙しくて、たった二日しか、休めなかった。
I was so busy last month that I could only take 2 days off.
Thursday, June 21, 2018
に従って
The phrase に従って uses the verb 従う, which typically means "to obey" or "to abide by" to literally state "following." However, it's most often used in sentences with nouns to express "in accordance with X", or "following X."
先生のアドバイスに従って勉強したら、成績がよくなった。
If you study following sensei's advice, your grades will improve.
会議で決まったことに従ってプロジェクトを進めてください。
Please proceed with the project in accordance with what we decided at the meeting.
先輩の意見に従って、夏はアルバイトをせずに、クラスを取ることにした。
Following senpai's opinion, in the summer instead of doing a part-time job, I've decided to take classes.
大学の寮に住む場合には、寮の規則に従って生活しなければならない。
In the case that I live in the college dorms, I'll have to live in accordance with the dorm rules.
先生のアドバイスに従って勉強したら、成績がよくなった。
If you study following sensei's advice, your grades will improve.
会議で決まったことに従ってプロジェクトを進めてください。
Please proceed with the project in accordance with what we decided at the meeting.
先輩の意見に従って、夏はアルバイトをせずに、クラスを取ることにした。
Following senpai's opinion, in the summer instead of doing a part-time job, I've decided to take classes.
大学の寮に住む場合には、寮の規則に従って生活しなければならない。
In the case that I live in the college dorms, I'll have to live in accordance with the dorm rules.
何より
The expression 何より(も) can be used to elevate something, often translating as "before everything", "above all", "more than anything else", or simply "the most."
私はこの教科書が大好きだ。何より、単語と漢字が覚えやすいというのがいい。
I really like this textbook. Most of all, the easy to remember kanji and vocab is great.
私にとって何よりも大切なのは、家族の幸せです。
For me, the most important thing is the happiness of my family.
私は家で本を読むのが何よりも好きです。
I like reading a book at home more than anything.
リーさんはアリスに会いに帰ってくる何よりも欲しがってるな。
More than anything, Lee-san wants to come home to see Alice.
私はこの教科書が大好きだ。何より、単語と漢字が覚えやすいというのがいい。
I really like this textbook. Most of all, the easy to remember kanji and vocab is great.
私にとって何よりも大切なのは、家族の幸せです。
For me, the most important thing is the happiness of my family.
私は家で本を読むのが何よりも好きです。
I like reading a book at home more than anything.
リーさんはアリスに会いに帰ってくる何よりも欲しがってるな。
More than anything, Lee-san wants to come home to see Alice.
Wednesday, June 20, 2018
後の
The expression 後の can be followed by a counter or noun to express "the remaining X" or "the rest of X." The の is optional, but can be used to distinguish it from the case where 後 + noun means "more." In that expression の is not used.
このクラスには学生が15人いる。大学生が12人、大学院生が1人、後の2人は高校生だ。
There are 15 students in this class. 12 are college students, 1 is a grad student, and the remaining 2 are high school students.
1週間の旅行のうち、三日間は東京に、後の四日間は京都に行く予定だ。
For my week trip, I'll be in Tokyo for 3 days, and then I'm scheduled to go to Kyoto for the remaining 4 days.
これは私の物です。でも、後の物は全部ルームメイトの物です。
This is my stuff. But all the rest of the stuff is my roommate's.
日本語の宿題は今晩しますが、後の宿題は明日するつもりです。
I'll do my Japanese homework tonight, but I plan to do the rest of my homework tomorrow.
このクラスには学生が15人いる。大学生が12人、大学院生が1人、後の2人は高校生だ。
There are 15 students in this class. 12 are college students, 1 is a grad student, and the remaining 2 are high school students.
1週間の旅行のうち、三日間は東京に、後の四日間は京都に行く予定だ。
For my week trip, I'll be in Tokyo for 3 days, and then I'm scheduled to go to Kyoto for the remaining 4 days.
これは私の物です。でも、後の物は全部ルームメイトの物です。
This is my stuff. But all the rest of the stuff is my roommate's.
日本語の宿題は今晩しますが、後の宿題は明日するつもりです。
I'll do my Japanese homework tonight, but I plan to do the rest of my homework tomorrow.
のうち
The structure X + のうち(で) can be used to indicate the total entity of X when presenting a smaller portion of X. This often translates to something like "Out of 100 people..."
1週間のうち、三日はアルバイトに行きます。
I go to my part-time job three days a week.
私が今学期取っている授業のうちで、宿題がないのはダンスのクラスだけだ。
Of the classes I'm taking this semester, dance class is the only one that doesn't have homework.
毎月もらう給料のうち、2割は家賃のために使います。
Out of the salary I receive every month, I use 20% of it for rent.
このクラスの12人の学生のうち、男子学生は8人で、4人が女子学生だ。
Among the 12 students in this class, 8 are guys and 4 are girls.
1週間のうち、三日はアルバイトに行きます。
I go to my part-time job three days a week.
私が今学期取っている授業のうちで、宿題がないのはダンスのクラスだけだ。
Of the classes I'm taking this semester, dance class is the only one that doesn't have homework.
毎月もらう給料のうち、2割は家賃のために使います。
Out of the salary I receive every month, I use 20% of it for rent.
このクラスの12人の学生のうち、男子学生は8人で、4人が女子学生だ。
Among the 12 students in this class, 8 are guys and 4 are girls.
Monday, June 18, 2018
も Verbば + も Verb
The sentence structure も Verbば + も Verb can be used to present two examples of possible actions or states, which are often contrastive. We've seen this grammatical structure before on a slightly smaller scale. It often translates as "some do ~ and others do ~", "sometimes ~ and other times ~", or "there are times when ~ and times when ~."
海に行きたい人もいれば、山に行きたい人もいて、旅行の計画が全然決まらない。
Some people want to go to the ocean, and others want to go to the mountains, so plans for this trip haven't been decided at all.
人生は考え方次第で、楽しくもなれば、苦しくもなる。
Depending on how you think about life, it could either be enjoyable, or it could be agonizing.
この仕事は危険でもあれば大変でもある。しかし誰かがやらなければならないのだ。
There are times when this job is dangerous, and times where it's tough. But somebody has to do it.
子供の頃は、兄弟とよく遊びもすれば、けんかもしたものだ。
When I was a kid, there were times when I often played with my siblings, and times when I fought with them.
海に行きたい人もいれば、山に行きたい人もいて、旅行の計画が全然決まらない。
Some people want to go to the ocean, and others want to go to the mountains, so plans for this trip haven't been decided at all.
人生は考え方次第で、楽しくもなれば、苦しくもなる。
Depending on how you think about life, it could either be enjoyable, or it could be agonizing.
この仕事は危険でもあれば大変でもある。しかし誰かがやらなければならないのだ。
There are times when this job is dangerous, and times where it's tough. But somebody has to do it.
子供の頃は、兄弟とよく遊びもすれば、けんかもしたものだ。
When I was a kid, there were times when I often played with my siblings, and times when I fought with them.
少なくとも
The adverb 少なくとも can be used with nouns or numbers to express "at (the) least" or "to say the least." The particle は can follow the noun or number/counter to further emphasize that word.
どんなに忙しくても、少なくとも6時間は寝た方がいいですよ。
No matter how busy you are, you should get at least 6 hours of sleep.
来年は、少なくとも3つは授業を取らなければいけない。
Next year, I have to take at least three classes.
人に何かしてもらったら、少なくともお礼は言った方がいい。
If someone gives you something, you should at least tell them thank you.
このことについては、少なくとも先生には話をしておいた方がいいと思う。
As for that matter, I think you should at least have a talk with sensei about it.
どんなに忙しくても、少なくとも6時間は寝た方がいいですよ。
No matter how busy you are, you should get at least 6 hours of sleep.
来年は、少なくとも3つは授業を取らなければいけない。
Next year, I have to take at least three classes.
人に何かしてもらったら、少なくともお礼は言った方がいい。
If someone gives you something, you should at least tell them thank you.
このことについては、少なくとも先生には話をしておいた方がいいと思う。
As for that matter, I think you should at least have a talk with sensei about it.
Friday, June 15, 2018
いかに
The word いかに can be used in embedded questions within sentences to express "how", "how much", or "in what way." It's commonly used in written language.
リサーチを通して、私達がいかにエネルギーを無駄に使っているかを知った。
In doing research, we found out how much energy is wasted.
この問題をいかに解決すべきか、みんなで話し合わなくてはならない。
As for how we should solve this problem, we should discuss it with everyone.
母の料理がいかにおいしいかは、言葉では説明できない。
I can't explain with words how good my mom's cooking is.
外国に住んでみて、初めて、外国語を勉強することがいかに大切か、よく分かった。
It was only when I tried living in a foreign country that I understood how important it is to study the language.
リサーチを通して、私達がいかにエネルギーを無駄に使っているかを知った。
In doing research, we found out how much energy is wasted.
この問題をいかに解決すべきか、みんなで話し合わなくてはならない。
As for how we should solve this problem, we should discuss it with everyone.
母の料理がいかにおいしいかは、言葉では説明できない。
I can't explain with words how good my mom's cooking is.
外国に住んでみて、初めて、外国語を勉強することがいかに大切か、よく分かった。
It was only when I tried living in a foreign country that I understood how important it is to study the language.
Thursday, June 14, 2018
ちゃんと and きちんと
The words ちゃんと and きちんと can be used to indicate that an action is done properly, regularly, adequately, neatly, or in good order. ちゃんと is the more colloquial of the two.
漢字を書く時は、文字のバランスもよく考えながら、点や線をきちんと書いて下さい。
When writing kanji, while thinking about the balance of the characters, please properly write the lines and points.
きちんと話さないと、相手に自分の言いたいことが伝えられませんよ。
If you don't speak adequately, the things you want to say will not be conveyed to your partner.
健康のためには、朝ご飯はちゃんと食べて、夜も6時間以上は寝た方がいいですよ。
For the sake of your health, you should eat a proper breakfast and sleep for at least six hours at night.
私は寮の規則をきちんと守って生活している。
I live abiding by the rules of the dorms.
漢字を書く時は、文字のバランスもよく考えながら、点や線をきちんと書いて下さい。
When writing kanji, while thinking about the balance of the characters, please properly write the lines and points.
きちんと話さないと、相手に自分の言いたいことが伝えられませんよ。
If you don't speak adequately, the things you want to say will not be conveyed to your partner.
健康のためには、朝ご飯はちゃんと食べて、夜も6時間以上は寝た方がいいですよ。
For the sake of your health, you should eat a proper breakfast and sleep for at least six hours at night.
私は寮の規則をきちんと守って生活している。
I live abiding by the rules of the dorms.
Passive Verbs for Politeness
The passive form of a verb can be used in place of the casual or -masu forms when the speaker wants to show politeness to someone. This level of politeness is not as high as the honorific form, but is still above the others. Note that for いる, the passive form in this case would be おられる.
ピアノ、お上手ですね。いつ始められたんですか。
You're good at piano. When did you begin playing?
先生はテニスをされるんですね。知りませんでした。
Sensei plays tennis? I didn't know that.
へえ。日本では四国に住んでおられたんですか。暖かいし、海もきれいだし、いい所ですよね。
Oh, so you lived in Shikoku in Japan? It's a nice place, it's warm and the ocean is beautiful.
スミス先生は、僕の日本語の先生である森先生を知っておられるそうだ。
I hear that Smith-sensei knows my Japanese teacher, Mori-sensei.
ピアノ、お上手ですね。いつ始められたんですか。
You're good at piano. When did you begin playing?
先生はテニスをされるんですね。知りませんでした。
Sensei plays tennis? I didn't know that.
へえ。日本では四国に住んでおられたんですか。暖かいし、海もきれいだし、いい所ですよね。
Oh, so you lived in Shikoku in Japan? It's a nice place, it's warm and the ocean is beautiful.
スミス先生は、僕の日本語の先生である森先生を知っておられるそうだ。
I hear that Smith-sensei knows my Japanese teacher, Mori-sensei.
Wednesday, June 13, 2018
とは限らない
A sentence or phrase + とは限らない can be used to express that something isn't necessarily the case, or isn't always true. It helps to remember that the verb 限る means "to limit" and think of it as "this situation isn't limited to..."
お金がたくさんあっても幸せとは限らない。貧しくても幸せな人もたくさんいる。
Having a lot of money doesn't necessarily mean you're happy. There are plenty of people who are happy even though they're poor.
両親や先生がいつも正しいとは限らないが、一応、アドバイスはもらっておいた方がいい。
Parents and teachers aren't necessarily always right, but for now, it's best to get their advice.
上手な選手がいなくても、負けるとは限らない。チームワークで勝てることもある。
Just because there aren't any skilled players doesn't mean they'll lose. Being able to win takes teamwork too.
日本語の先生がいつも日本人だとは限らない。とてもいい外国人の先生もたくさんいる。
Japanese teachers aren't always Japanese people. There are lots of very good foreign teachers too.
お金がたくさんあっても幸せとは限らない。貧しくても幸せな人もたくさんいる。
Having a lot of money doesn't necessarily mean you're happy. There are plenty of people who are happy even though they're poor.
両親や先生がいつも正しいとは限らないが、一応、アドバイスはもらっておいた方がいい。
Parents and teachers aren't necessarily always right, but for now, it's best to get their advice.
上手な選手がいなくても、負けるとは限らない。チームワークで勝てることもある。
Just because there aren't any skilled players doesn't mean they'll lose. Being able to win takes teamwork too.
日本語の先生がいつも日本人だとは限らない。とてもいい外国人の先生もたくさんいる。
Japanese teachers aren't always Japanese people. There are lots of very good foreign teachers too.
次第
The word 次第 can be added to nouns as a suffix to provide the meaning "depending on..."
この授業でいい成績が取れるかどうかは、期末のレポート次第だ。
Whether I can get a good grade in this class depends on the end of term report.
日曜日のピクニックはお天気次第ですよ。雨が降れば来週に延期されるそうです。
Sunday's picnic depends on the weather. If it rains, I hear it'll be postponed to next week.
漢字の勉強は覚え方次第で大変じゃなくなりますよ。
Kanji studies don't have to be difficult, depending on how you learn it.
このプロジェクトは、社長の考え次第で変わる可能性がある。
It's possible that this project will change, depending on the manager's plans.
この授業でいい成績が取れるかどうかは、期末のレポート次第だ。
Whether I can get a good grade in this class depends on the end of term report.
日曜日のピクニックはお天気次第ですよ。雨が降れば来週に延期されるそうです。
Sunday's picnic depends on the weather. If it rains, I hear it'll be postponed to next week.
漢字の勉強は覚え方次第で大変じゃなくなりますよ。
Kanji studies don't have to be difficult, depending on how you learn it.
このプロジェクトは、社長の考え次第で変わる可能性がある。
It's possible that this project will change, depending on the manager's plans.
Tuesday, June 12, 2018
かなり
The word かなり can be used to indicate that the degree of something is higher than average, but not extraordinarily so. It often translates as "considerably", "rather", "quite", or "fairly."
この間の試験はかなり難しかったが、いい点を取ることが出来た。
The test from the other day was pretty difficult, but I was able to get a good score.
もうかなり歩いたはずなのに、まだ目的地に着かない。道に迷ったのだろうか。
Even though we've already walked a fair way, we still haven't reached our destination. Are we lost?
かなりゆっくり話してあげたのに、あの人は私の言ったことがあまり分からなかったようだ。
Even though I spoke fairly slowly for him, it seems like he didn't understand what I said very well.
彼は小学生だけれど、かなり背が高いなあ。中学生だと思ったよ。
He's an elementary school student, but he's rather tall. I thought he was a middle schooler.
この間の試験はかなり難しかったが、いい点を取ることが出来た。
The test from the other day was pretty difficult, but I was able to get a good score.
もうかなり歩いたはずなのに、まだ目的地に着かない。道に迷ったのだろうか。
Even though we've already walked a fair way, we still haven't reached our destination. Are we lost?
かなりゆっくり話してあげたのに、あの人は私の言ったことがあまり分からなかったようだ。
Even though I spoke fairly slowly for him, it seems like he didn't understand what I said very well.
彼は小学生だけれど、かなり背が高いなあ。中学生だと思ったよ。
He's an elementary school student, but he's rather tall. I thought he was a middle schooler.
しかしながら
The word しかしながら is a conjunction that can be used at the beginning of sentences to mean "however" or "but." It's a highly formal expression and is generally used in written language.
この論文はすばらしいと思う。しかしながら、賛成できない点もいくつかある。
I think this essay is wonderful. However, there are also some points that I can't agree with.
リーさんは頭がいいと思う。しかしながら、薄情な人そうだな。
I think Lee-san is smart. But I hear that he's a cold-hearted person.
戦争がよくないことは、みんな分かっているはずだ。しかしながら、未だに戦争は続いている。
People should know that war is bad. Nevertheless, war still continues.
分かってるよ。しかしながら、十二午前のあと医師が病院に入ってはいけないになってる。
I understand. However, the rule is that doctors must not enter the hospital after 12 AM.
この論文はすばらしいと思う。しかしながら、賛成できない点もいくつかある。
I think this essay is wonderful. However, there are also some points that I can't agree with.
リーさんは頭がいいと思う。しかしながら、薄情な人そうだな。
I think Lee-san is smart. But I hear that he's a cold-hearted person.
戦争がよくないことは、みんな分かっているはずだ。しかしながら、未だに戦争は続いている。
People should know that war is bad. Nevertheless, war still continues.
分かってるよ。しかしながら、十二午前のあと医師が病院に入ってはいけないになってる。
I understand. However, the rule is that doctors must not enter the hospital after 12 AM.
Monday, June 11, 2018
未だに
The word 未だに can be used to indicate that someone or something is still in the same state that existed some time ago. It's more commonly used in written language and is equivalent to まだ, meaning "still" or "not yet" with a negative.
私の母は、未だに携帯電話を持たずに生活している。
My mom still lives without a cell phone.
彼女が嫌らしい人なのに、リーさんは未だにつきあってるんだな。
Even though she's an awful person, Lee-san is still dating her.
あの殺人事件からもう５年もたっているのに、未だに犯人はつかまっていない。
Even though it's already been 5 years since that murder case, the criminal has still not been caught.
今日は四時間に勉強したけど、未だにこの問題が分かってないなぁ。
I studied for four hours today, but I still don't understand this problem.
私の母は、未だに携帯電話を持たずに生活している。
My mom still lives without a cell phone.
彼女が嫌らしい人なのに、リーさんは未だにつきあってるんだな。
Even though she's an awful person, Lee-san is still dating her.
あの殺人事件からもう５年もたっているのに、未だに犯人はつかまっていない。
Even though it's already been 5 years since that murder case, the criminal has still not been caught.
今日は四時間に勉強したけど、未だにこの問題が分かってないなぁ。
I studied for four hours today, but I still don't understand this problem.
問題にする
The structure X + を問題にする can be used to express the meaning "to bring up X as an issue" or "to question X." In its passive form, with される replacing する, the meaning becomes "X is brought up as an issue." なる can also be used there and have a meaning similar to the passive form.
環境問題においては、まず、どうすればゴミを減らすことが出来るかという点を問題にすべきだ。
As for issues with the environment, firstly we should address the point of how we can decrease the amount of trash.
地球の未来を考えた時、何よりもまず初めに地球温暖化が問題にされるべきだ。
When considering the future of the earth, first, more than anything, the issue of global warming should be addressed.
今、その国で一番問題にされていることは、子供達に平等に教育の機会を与えることだ。
Right now, the biggest problem to be addressed in this country is providing all children with the opportunity for an equal education.
最近、子供達によるケータイの使いすぎが問題になっている。
Recently, according to children, the overuse of cell phones is becoming an issue.
環境問題においては、まず、どうすればゴミを減らすことが出来るかという点を問題にすべきだ。
As for issues with the environment, firstly we should address the point of how we can decrease the amount of trash.
地球の未来を考えた時、何よりもまず初めに地球温暖化が問題にされるべきだ。
When considering the future of the earth, first, more than anything, the issue of global warming should be addressed.
今、その国で一番問題にされていることは、子供達に平等に教育の機会を与えることだ。
Right now, the biggest problem to be addressed in this country is providing all children with the opportunity for an equal education.
最近、子供達によるケータイの使いすぎが問題になっている。
Recently, according to children, the overuse of cell phones is becoming an issue.
Wednesday, June 6, 2018
Time period + に入る
A time period + に入る would literally mean "entering into that time period", and is often used to express that period beginning. It's most commonly used in the form [Period] に入り or [Period] に入って(から) meaning "since [time period] began."
インターネットの時代に入って、人々の買い物の仕方が変わった。
Since we entered the internet age, the way people do their shopping has changed.
梅雨に入ってから、晴れの日がまったくなくて湿度が高く、気持ちが悪い。
Since the rainy season hit, sunny days have completely disappeared and humidity is high - it's unpleasant.
60年代に入ってすぐベトナム戦争が始まり、15年も続いた。
In the 60s the Vietnam War immediately began, and it continued for 15 years.
彼は思春期に入ってから、親にすごく反抗するようになった。
Ever since he's reached adolescence, he's come to greatly disobey his parents.
インターネットの時代に入って、人々の買い物の仕方が変わった。
Since we entered the internet age, the way people do their shopping has changed.
梅雨に入ってから、晴れの日がまったくなくて湿度が高く、気持ちが悪い。
Since the rainy season hit, sunny days have completely disappeared and humidity is high - it's unpleasant.
60年代に入ってすぐベトナム戦争が始まり、15年も続いた。
In the 60s the Vietnam War immediately began, and it continued for 15 years.
彼は思春期に入ってから、親にすごく反抗するようになった。
Ever since he's reached adolescence, he's come to greatly disobey his parents.
共に
The word 共に can be used with nouns as the more formal version of も. When used in the format [X, Y 共に], it translates as "both X and Y."
今年の冬は、一月、二月共、あまり寒くなかった。
This winter in both January and February, it wasn't very cold.
リーさんが家で犬、猫共にが飼ってるってけど、そこで馬も見たんだな。
Lee-san says he has both dogs and cats at his house, but I also saw horses there.
毎年、夏、冬共に祖父母の家で休みを楽しむことにしている。
I'm in the habit of enjoying a vacation at my grandparents' house every summer and winter.
アリスがパーティーにチップス、サルサ共に持ってこなくちゃと言ってた。
Alice told me to bring both chips and salsa for the party.
今年の冬は、一月、二月共、あまり寒くなかった。
This winter in both January and February, it wasn't very cold.
リーさんが家で犬、猫共にが飼ってるってけど、そこで馬も見たんだな。
Lee-san says he has both dogs and cats at his house, but I also saw horses there.
毎年、夏、冬共に祖父母の家で休みを楽しむことにしている。
I'm in the habit of enjoying a vacation at my grandparents' house every summer and winter.
アリスがパーティーにチップス、サルサ共に持ってこなくちゃと言ってた。
Alice told me to bring both chips and salsa for the party.
Tuesday, June 5, 2018
左右する
Though the word 左右 on its own can simply mean "left and right", when turned into a する verb, it can be used to mean "to influence" or "to govern." It's commonly used in formal written language.
日本でのインターンシップの経験は、私の人生を大きく左右するだろう。
My experience at my internship in Japan will probably have a huge impact on my life.
私はあまり人の意見に左右されたくないと思っている。
I don't think that I want to be influenced very much by other people's opinions.
リーさんの彼女は花とかチョコレートとかのプレゼントに左右されてるそうだよ。
I hear that Lee-san's girlfriend is influenced by gifts like flowers and chocolates.
天気に気分を左右される人は、結構多い。
There's a fair number of people whose moods are influenced by the weather.
日本でのインターンシップの経験は、私の人生を大きく左右するだろう。
My experience at my internship in Japan will probably have a huge impact on my life.
私はあまり人の意見に左右されたくないと思っている。
I don't think that I want to be influenced very much by other people's opinions.
リーさんの彼女は花とかチョコレートとかのプレゼントに左右されてるそうだよ。
I hear that Lee-san's girlfriend is influenced by gifts like flowers and chocolates.
天気に気分を左右される人は、結構多い。
There's a fair number of people whose moods are influenced by the weather.
一応
一応 is a flexible word in Japanese that is used "when an action/state is tentative or not quite complete, perfect, or satisfactory", according to Tobira. Its many meanings include "for now", "tentatively", "although not perfectly", "sort of", and "just in case."
まだ話し合わなくてはいけない問題がありますが、時間になりましたので、今日は、一応、これで会議を終わります。
There are still issues that we must discuss, but due to the time, for now let's end the meeting here.
コンピュータがフリーズする問題は一応解決したけれど、まだ、メールが文字化けするという問題が残っている。
For now I've resolved the problem with my computer freezing, but the problem with the garbled text in emails still remains.
このカメラでなら、誰でも、一応きれいな写真が取れるはずです。
With this camera, anyone should be able to pretty pictures, more or less.
このノートに書いてあることは全部覚えたと思うが、一応、もう一度見ておこう。
I think I've memorized everything that's written in this notebook, but just in case, let me look one more time.
まだ話し合わなくてはいけない問題がありますが、時間になりましたので、今日は、一応、これで会議を終わります。
There are still issues that we must discuss, but due to the time, for now let's end the meeting here.
コンピュータがフリーズする問題は一応解決したけれど、まだ、メールが文字化けするという問題が残っている。
For now I've resolved the problem with my computer freezing, but the problem with the garbled text in emails still remains.
このカメラでなら、誰でも、一応きれいな写真が取れるはずです。
With this camera, anyone should be able to pretty pictures, more or less.
このノートに書いてあることは全部覚えたと思うが、一応、もう一度見ておこう。
I think I've memorized everything that's written in this notebook, but just in case, let me look one more time.
Monday, June 4, 2018
すなわち
The word すなわち can be used at the beginning of a sentence to signal that you're about to rephrase something that was just mentioned. It's more common in formal settings, and often translates as "that is", or "namely."
昭和25年頃、すなわち1950年頃の日本は、戦争が終わったすぐ後で、みんな貧乏だった。
Around year 25 of the Showa era, that is, around the 1950s in Japan, soon after the war had ended, everybody was poor.
母の父、すなわち私の祖父は現在63歳です。
My mother’s father, in other words my grandfather, is 63 years old.
オタクの聖地、すなわち、東京の秋葉原は、電気製品が安い「電気の街」でもある。
The otaku holy land, or in other words, Akihabara in Tokyo, also known as the electric district, has inexpensive electronics.
すなわち、来年にはワールドカップが開催されるのだ。
In other words, the World Cup will be held next year.
昭和25年頃、すなわち1950年頃の日本は、戦争が終わったすぐ後で、みんな貧乏だった。
Around year 25 of the Showa era, that is, around the 1950s in Japan, soon after the war had ended, everybody was poor.
母の父、すなわち私の祖父は現在63歳です。
My mother’s father, in other words my grandfather, is 63 years old.
オタクの聖地、すなわち、東京の秋葉原は、電気製品が安い「電気の街」でもある。
The otaku holy land, or in other words, Akihabara in Tokyo, also known as the electric district, has inexpensive electronics.
すなわち、来年にはワールドカップが開催されるのだ。
In other words, the World Cup will be held next year.
を除いて
The verb 除く has a couple different meanings. It can mean "to remove/get rid of", or it can mean "to exclude or except." Keeping in mind the latter meaning, we can look at the compound particle を除いて and understand it to mean "except for." If it's used before a noun as part of an adjectival clause, the plain verb 除く is used instead.
私が重い病気だということは、両親を除いて誰も知らない。
No one knows that I'm seriously ill except my parents.
リーさんを除いて、この部屋に誰も好きじゃないの。
I don't like anyone in this room except for Lee-san.
留学中、沖縄を除く日本全国各地を友達と一緒に旅行した。
While I studied abroad, I traveled to every corner of Japan with my friends, except for Okinawa.
匂いを除いて、毎朝牧舎へ行くのが好きだよ。
Besides the smell, I like going to the stables every morning.
私が重い病気だということは、両親を除いて誰も知らない。
No one knows that I'm seriously ill except my parents.
リーさんを除いて、この部屋に誰も好きじゃないの。
I don't like anyone in this room except for Lee-san.
留学中、沖縄を除く日本全国各地を友達と一緒に旅行した。
While I studied abroad, I traveled to every corner of Japan with my friends, except for Okinawa.
匂いを除いて、毎朝牧舎へ行くのが好きだよ。
Besides the smell, I like going to the stables every morning.
Wednesday, May 16, 2018
ほら
The word ほら is an interjection that can be used to draw someone's attention to something. It can be translated as "hey", "look", "see", or "come on!"
ほら、これ、見て。リリーが子犬の時の写真。かわいいねえ。
Hey, look at this. It's a picture of Lily as a puppy. She's so cute.
ああ、ほら、リーさんは新たなスーツを着てて、かっこいいねぇ。
Look, Lee-san's wearing a new suit - he's so handsome!
あ、ちょっと、静かにして！ほら、馬の声が聞こえる。
Be quiet! Look, you sound like a horse.
ほら、君の血の色はきれいだなぁ、全て飲んでしまうよ。
Ahh, the color of your blood is so beautiful, I'll drink it all.
ほら、これ、見て。リリーが子犬の時の写真。かわいいねえ。
Hey, look at this. It's a picture of Lily as a puppy. She's so cute.
ああ、ほら、リーさんは新たなスーツを着てて、かっこいいねぇ。
Look, Lee-san's wearing a new suit - he's so handsome!
あ、ちょっと、静かにして！ほら、馬の声が聞こえる。
Be quiet! Look, you sound like a horse.
ほら、君の血の色はきれいだなぁ、全て飲んでしまうよ。
Ahh, the color of your blood is so beautiful, I'll drink it all.
なんだ
なんだ is a common word that can be used as an interjection to express slight surprise. It literally means "what is X?" It's used in casual conversation.
なんだ、もう食べちゃったの。一緒に食べたかったのに。
What, you already ate? I thought we wanted to eat together.
その外で見つけた鍵はなんだか？
What is that key you found outside?
なんだ、まだ宿題終わってないの。早くしないと、授業が始まっちゃうよ。
What, you haven't finished your homework yet? You'd better do it soon, class is about to start.
A: リーさんはプロムにリカと行ったんだよ。
B: なんだ？アリスと行ったと思った。
A: Lee-san went to prom with Rika, you know.
B: What? I thought he went with Alice.
なんだ、もう食べちゃったの。一緒に食べたかったのに。
What, you already ate? I thought we wanted to eat together.
その外で見つけた鍵はなんだか？
What is that key you found outside?
なんだ、まだ宿題終わってないの。早くしないと、授業が始まっちゃうよ。
What, you haven't finished your homework yet? You'd better do it soon, class is about to start.
A: リーさんはプロムにリカと行ったんだよ。
B: なんだ？アリスと行ったと思った。
A: Lee-san went to prom with Rika, you know.
B: What? I thought he went with Alice.
Tuesday, May 15, 2018
もまた
The phrase もまた carries a meaning equivalent to the particle も. It's more formal though, and sounds more emphatic in its usage.
暑いのは好きではないが、寒いのもまた苦手だ。
I don't like the heat, but I also don't like the cold.
リーさんはケーキを焼くだけでなく、ポニーもまた買ってくれたんだよ。
Not only did Lee-san bake me a cake, but he also bought me a pony.
俳句だけでなく、短歌もまた日本を代表する文学の一つとして知られている。
Not just haikus, but tankas are also known as one of the types of literature that represents Japan.
かばんでは、ティッシュがあって、ナイフもまたあるんだよ。
In my bag, I have tissues, and I also have a knife.
暑いのは好きではないが、寒いのもまた苦手だ。
I don't like the heat, but I also don't like the cold.
リーさんはケーキを焼くだけでなく、ポニーもまた買ってくれたんだよ。
Not only did Lee-san bake me a cake, but he also bought me a pony.
俳句だけでなく、短歌もまた日本を代表する文学の一つとして知られている。
Not just haikus, but tankas are also known as one of the types of literature that represents Japan.
かばんでは、ティッシュがあって、ナイフもまたあるんだよ。
In my bag, I have tissues, and I also have a knife.
における
The phrase における can be used to indicate the time or place of an action or state that occurs. When used before a verb, it's conjugated to において. It's only used in formal language and generally translates as "in", "at", "on", or "during."
アジアにおける歴史に関する問題は、解決が難しそうです。
The resolution to the problems within Asian history sounds difficult.
1964年に東京において夏のオリンピックが行われた。1998年には、長野において冬のオリンピックが開かれた。
In 1964 in Tokyo, the summer Olympics were held. In 1998, the winter Olympics opened in Nagano.
7時から大学のホールにおいて学生会議を行います。
At 7 o'clock there's a student meeting being held in the university's hall.
過去において、その問題について誰も対策を考えなかったというわけではない。
It's not like nobody thought about countermeasures for these problems in the past.
アジアにおける歴史に関する問題は、解決が難しそうです。
The resolution to the problems within Asian history sounds difficult.
1964年に東京において夏のオリンピックが行われた。1998年には、長野において冬のオリンピックが開かれた。
In 1964 in Tokyo, the summer Olympics were held. In 1998, the winter Olympics opened in Nagano.
7時から大学のホールにおいて学生会議を行います。
At 7 o'clock there's a student meeting being held in the university's hall.
過去において、その問題について誰も対策を考えなかったというわけではない。
It's not like nobody thought about countermeasures for these problems in the past.
Monday, May 14, 2018
だいたい
The word だいたい can be used with a word or phrase to add a general meaning of "most" or "nearly." The meaning varies depending on the type of word accompanying it. だいたい + Verb = mostly, nearly, or almost. だいたいの Noun = most, almost all, or rough. だいたい + Number/Amount = approximately.
先生の説明を聞いて、この言葉の意味はだいたい分かったけれど、まだ上手に使えない。
I heard sensei's explanation and nearly understood the meaning of this word, but I still can't use it correctly yet.
1年生のクラスでは、だいたい20%ぐらいの学生が、日本に行ったことがあるようです。
In the first year class, it looks like about 20% of the students have been to Japan.
この大学では、だいたいの学生がアルバイトをしている。
At this university, most of the students work part-time jobs.
だいたいの数は分かりますが、正確な数は調べてみないと分かりません。
I know the approximate number, but if I don't try to get an accurate number, then I won't know.
先生の説明を聞いて、この言葉の意味はだいたい分かったけれど、まだ上手に使えない。
I heard sensei's explanation and nearly understood the meaning of this word, but I still can't use it correctly yet.
1年生のクラスでは、だいたい20%ぐらいの学生が、日本に行ったことがあるようです。
In the first year class, it looks like about 20% of the students have been to Japan.
この大学では、だいたいの学生がアルバイトをしている。
At this university, most of the students work part-time jobs.
だいたいの数は分かりますが、正確な数は調べてみないと分かりません。
I know the approximate number, but if I don't try to get an accurate number, then I won't know.
には
A noun or phrase + には can be used to describe purpose in a general statement. These statements are often used to express judgment on the topic's effectiveness, necessity, etc. It can be translated as "to", "in order to", "for", or "when."
風邪の予防には、ビタミンＣをたくさん取って、よく寝るのが効果的です。
For cold prevention, it's effective to take lots of vitamin C and get good rest.
学校のあとにリーさんの家へ行くには、バスがもっと安いと思う。
When going to Lee-san's house after school, I think the bus is cheaper.
海外旅行には、このスーツケースを持って行くと便利ですよ。
For trips overseas, it's convenient to take this suitcase.
レストランで食べるには、静かに話したほうがいいんだよ。
When eating at a restaurant, you'd better talk quietly.
風邪の予防には、ビタミンＣをたくさん取って、よく寝るのが効果的です。
For cold prevention, it's effective to take lots of vitamin C and get good rest.
学校のあとにリーさんの家へ行くには、バスがもっと安いと思う。
When going to Lee-san's house after school, I think the bus is cheaper.
海外旅行には、このスーツケースを持って行くと便利ですよ。
For trips overseas, it's convenient to take this suitcase.
レストランで食べるには、静かに話したほうがいいんだよ。
When eating at a restaurant, you'd better talk quietly.
Saturday, May 12, 2018
あまりにも
The phrase あまりに(も) can be used to indicate that the degree of something is excessively high. It often translates as "too much" or "excessive." Also note that this line is used in Ayato's lovely song 血極 Night when he's talking about drinking lots of blood.
この読み物は、あまりにも漢字が多すぎて、何が書いてあるのかまったく理解できない。
This reading material has too many kanji in it, and I can't understand what's written at all.
リーさん作ったスープはあまりに辛すぎて、食べれなかったんだ。
The soup that Lee-san made was way too spicy, and I couldn't eat it.
隣の家のパーティーがあまりにうるさかったので、警察に連絡した。
The party at the neighbor's house was too loud, so I called the cops.
このクラスではあまりにも男の子がいて、女の子がどこでいるの？
There are too many boys in this class - where are the girls?
だけで
A noun or verb + だけで can be used to express that just having X or just doing X is fine. It's often translated as "just by [verb]" or "just with [noun]."
日本に行ったら、英語は使わないでなるべく日本語だけで生活するつもりだ。
When I go to Japan, I plan to not use English and to live just using Japanese as much as possible.
この植木は２週間に一度水をやるだけでいいですよ。世話が簡単です。
This plant just needs to be watered once every two weeks. It's easy to care for.
スミスさんは自分で勉強しただけで、日本語が話せるようになりました。
Smith-san studied all on his own, and he got to where he could speak Japanese.
お金を入れてボタンを押すだけで、暖かいラーメンが出てくる自動販売機がある。
It's a vending machine where just by inserting money and pressing a button, you get warm ramen.
日本に行ったら、英語は使わないでなるべく日本語だけで生活するつもりだ。
When I go to Japan, I plan to not use English and to live just using Japanese as much as possible.
この植木は２週間に一度水をやるだけでいいですよ。世話が簡単です。
This plant just needs to be watered once every two weeks. It's easy to care for.
スミスさんは自分で勉強しただけで、日本語が話せるようになりました。
Smith-san studied all on his own, and he got to where he could speak Japanese.
お金を入れてボタンを押すだけで、暖かいラーメンが出てくる自動販売機がある。
It's a vending machine where just by inserting money and pressing a button, you get warm ramen.
Wednesday, May 9, 2018
Verb Stem + 上げる
A verb stem + 上げる will form a compound verb with varying meanings. The meaning is often something like "finish something up", "upward", or "to a great extent." It's best to learn the verbs individually, though.
今日中にこのレポートを書き上げてしまわなければならない。
I have to finish up writing this report by the end of the day.
この荷物は重すぎて誰も持ち上げることはないが、機械なら簡単に持ち上げられる。
This luggage is too heavy for anyone to be able to lift up, but a machine could easily lift it.
日本語を勉強している学生達が、自分達で日本語のブログサイトを立ち上げた。
The students studying Japanese started up a Japanese blog site on their own.
泥棒はコンビニの店員を縛り上げて、レジのお金を盗んで行った。
The robber tied up all the konbini's employees, stole the money from the register, and left.
今日中にこのレポートを書き上げてしまわなければならない。
I have to finish up writing this report by the end of the day.
この荷物は重すぎて誰も持ち上げることはないが、機械なら簡単に持ち上げられる。
This luggage is too heavy for anyone to be able to lift up, but a machine could easily lift it.
日本語を勉強している学生達が、自分達で日本語のブログサイトを立ち上げた。
The students studying Japanese started up a Japanese blog site on their own.
泥棒はコンビニの店員を縛り上げて、レジのお金を盗んで行った。
The robber tied up all the konbini's employees, stole the money from the register, and left.
Verb Stem + がけに
The verb stem of a motion verb + がけに can be used to express "on one's way."
会社への行きがけに銀行によって、お金をおろして行こう。
On the way to work I'll stop by the bank and take out some money.
リーさん会社の帰りがけに嬉しく小さい子猫を見つけて、家に連れてきたんだ。
On his way home from work, Lee-san found a happy little kitten and brought him home.
高校生の頃は, 学校の帰りがけに友達と映画を見たり、本屋に行ったりしたものです。
When I was a high school student, on my way home from school I used to do things with my friends like see movies and go to the book store.
パーティへの行きがけに、転んで腕が折られちゃった。
On my way to the party, I fell and broke my arm.
会社への行きがけに銀行によって、お金をおろして行こう。
On the way to work I'll stop by the bank and take out some money.
リーさん会社の帰りがけに嬉しく小さい子猫を見つけて、家に連れてきたんだ。
On his way home from work, Lee-san found a happy little kitten and brought him home.
高校生の頃は, 学校の帰りがけに友達と映画を見たり、本屋に行ったりしたものです。
When I was a high school student, on my way home from school I used to do things with my friends like see movies and go to the book store.
パーティへの行きがけに、転んで腕が折られちゃった。
On my way to the party, I fell and broke my arm.
Tuesday, May 8, 2018
につれて
The structure X + につれて can be used to express something that takes places as X occurs. X is usually a verb, or a verbal noun (like a する verb).
暖かくなるにつれて、雪が溶け、木が緑になっていく。
As it gets to be warm, the snow will melt, and the trees will become green.
リーさんが練るにつれて、体がもっと強くなるんだな。
As Lee-san works out, his body becomes stronger.
日本語が上手になるにつれて、日本人と話すのが恥ずかしくなくなってきた。
As you get to be good at Japanese, you won't be embarrassed to talk to Japanese people.
日本の歴史を習うにつれて、もっと不思議になるんだよね。
As I learn about Japanese history, it becomes more curious to me.
暖かくなるにつれて、雪が溶け、木が緑になっていく。
As it gets to be warm, the snow will melt, and the trees will become green.
リーさんが練るにつれて、体がもっと強くなるんだな。
As Lee-san works out, his body becomes stronger.
日本語が上手になるにつれて、日本人と話すのが恥ずかしくなくなってきた。
As you get to be good at Japanese, you won't be embarrassed to talk to Japanese people.
日本の歴史を習うにつれて、もっと不思議になるんだよね。
As I learn about Japanese history, it becomes more curious to me.
だんだん
The word だんだん is used to describe a state that changes slowly over time, and is usually translated as "gradually" or "little by little." It often occurs alongside the ていく and てくる forms because of this.
毎日日本語で話すようにしていると、だんだん上手に話せるようになりますよ。
If you make an effort to speak Japanese every day, you'll gradually get to where you can speak it well.
祖父は毎日英語を勉強して、だんだんペラペラ読めるようになったんだわ。
Grandpa studied English every day, and he gradually got to where he could fluently read it.
せっかく４年間も日本語を勉強したのに、大学を卒業してからあまり使わなかったら、だんだん忘れてしまった。
Even though I specially studied Japanese for four years, when I didn't use it very much after graduating from college, I forgot it little by little.
リーさんはジムに行き始めて、だんだんすごく強くなったんだな。
Lee-san started going to the gym, and little by little he got to be very strong.
毎日日本語で話すようにしていると、だんだん上手に話せるようになりますよ。
If you make an effort to speak Japanese every day, you'll gradually get to where you can speak it well.
祖父は毎日英語を勉強して、だんだんペラペラ読めるようになったんだわ。
Grandpa studied English every day, and he gradually got to where he could fluently read it.
せっかく４年間も日本語を勉強したのに、大学を卒業してからあまり使わなかったら、だんだん忘れてしまった。
Even though I specially studied Japanese for four years, when I didn't use it very much after graduating from college, I forgot it little by little.
リーさんはジムに行き始めて、だんだんすごく強くなったんだな。
Lee-san started going to the gym, and little by little he got to be very strong.
Thursday, May 3, 2018
たものだ
A plain past tense verb + ものだ can be used to express the English equivalent of "used to", referring to an action that used to be performed. It's often used in a nostalgic fashion to reminisce about the past.
子供の頃は、毎年夏休みになると、家族と海に泳ぎに行ったものです。
Every year when I was a kid, when it was summer break I would go swimming in the ocean with my family.
高校の頃は、クラスの後いつもリーさんと映画館に行ったものだな。
Back in high school, after class I always used to go to the movies with Lee-san.
携帯電話がなかった頃は、よく友達を待たせたり、逆に待たせられたりしたものだが、今はすぐ連絡できるのでとても便利だ。
Back when we didn't have cell phones, I often used to make my friends wait, or the opposite, was made to wait by my friends, but now I since I can quickly contact them it's really convenient.
トキが子猫の時は、ドアの近いに小さい壺に寝たものだねぇ。
When Toki was a kitten, he used to sleep in the little pot near the door.
子供の頃は、毎年夏休みになると、家族と海に泳ぎに行ったものです。
Every year when I was a kid, when it was summer break I would go swimming in the ocean with my family.
高校の頃は、クラスの後いつもリーさんと映画館に行ったものだな。
Back in high school, after class I always used to go to the movies with Lee-san.
携帯電話がなかった頃は、よく友達を待たせたり、逆に待たせられたりしたものだが、今はすぐ連絡できるのでとても便利だ。
Back when we didn't have cell phones, I often used to make my friends wait, or the opposite, was made to wait by my friends, but now I since I can quickly contact them it's really convenient.
トキが子猫の時は、ドアの近いに小さい壺に寝たものだねぇ。
When Toki was a kitten, he used to sleep in the little pot near the door.
Verb ては Verb
The structure verb + ては + verb can be used to express that those verbs are done repeatedly or over and over, usually over a period of time. The verbs can be repeated again for additional emphasis.
僕の犬は散歩に連れて行くと、ちょっと歩いては立ち止まって鼻をクンクンさせ、なかなか前に進まない。
Whenever I take my dog on a walk, he'll repeatedly take a few steps and then stop and sniff over and over, and not really move forward at all.
ダンスパーティーで、リーさんは踊っては歌って、踊っては歌ってたんだ。
At the dance party, Lee-san was repeatedly dancing and singing, dancing and singing.
今日は朝から、雨が降ってはやみ、降ってはやみしていて嫌な天気だ。
The weather's been bad ever since this morning - the rain has started and stopped, started and stopped.
先週の週末私は病気だった、食べては吐いてしまったんだな。
Last weekend I was sick, and I repeatedly ate and threw up.
僕の犬は散歩に連れて行くと、ちょっと歩いては立ち止まって鼻をクンクンさせ、なかなか前に進まない。
Whenever I take my dog on a walk, he'll repeatedly take a few steps and then stop and sniff over and over, and not really move forward at all.
ダンスパーティーで、リーさんは踊っては歌って、踊っては歌ってたんだ。
At the dance party, Lee-san was repeatedly dancing and singing, dancing and singing.
今日は朝から、雨が降ってはやみ、降ってはやみしていて嫌な天気だ。
The weather's been bad ever since this morning - the rain has started and stopped, started and stopped.
先週の週末私は病気だった、食べては吐いてしまったんだな。
Last weekend I was sick, and I repeatedly ate and threw up.
Wednesday, May 2, 2018
姿
The word 姿 means appearance or figure, and can be used to describe someone's physical form or appearance. When used with nouns, it means "one's appearance in" or "wearing..." and when used with verbs, it means "the way one [verb]."
日本では秋になると仕事の面接に行くスーツ姿の学生が増える。
In Japan when it becomes fall, the amount of students going to job interviews wearing suits increases.
リーさんは歩く姿のを見ると、どきどきしてしまうんだなぁ。
Whenever I see the way Lee-san walks, I get nervous.
母が病気で苦しむ姿を見て、私は将来医者になろうと心に決めた。
I see the way my mom suffers in her illness, so in the future I decided that I shall become a doctor.
ワイシャツ姿の男はすてきだけど、ドレス姿の男はとってもかっこいいね。
Guys wearing dress shirts are lovely, but guys wearing dresses are so handsome.
日本では秋になると仕事の面接に行くスーツ姿の学生が増える。
In Japan when it becomes fall, the amount of students going to job interviews wearing suits increases.
リーさんは歩く姿のを見ると、どきどきしてしまうんだなぁ。
Whenever I see the way Lee-san walks, I get nervous.
母が病気で苦しむ姿を見て、私は将来医者になろうと心に決めた。
I see the way my mom suffers in her illness, so in the future I decided that I shall become a doctor.
ワイシャツ姿の男はすてきだけど、ドレス姿の男はとってもかっこいいね。
Guys wearing dress shirts are lovely, but guys wearing dresses are so handsome.
～代
A number that's a multiple of 10 + 代 can be used to describe someone's age, with 20代 meaning 20's, 30代 meaning 30's, etc. If it's used with a year in the format of 1950年代, then it's referring to the 1950s.
私は10代で結婚してすぐ子供を産み、40代で孫が産まれ、「おばあさん」になりました。
I got married in my teens and soon had a child, and in my 40's my grandchild was born, and I became a grandmother.
20代でリーさんに会ったんだけど、30代で付き合い始めたんだ。
I met Lee-san in my 20's, but I started dating him in my 30's.
1980年代の後半から1990年代の初めにかけての日本の経済は「バブル経済」と呼ばれている。
The soaring Japanese economy from the second half of the 1980s to the early 1990s is known as a "bubble economy."
彼は２０代で会社を作り、３０代で、大金持ちになった。
He started a company in his 20's and became rich in his 30's.
私は10代で結婚してすぐ子供を産み、40代で孫が産まれ、「おばあさん」になりました。
I got married in my teens and soon had a child, and in my 40's my grandchild was born, and I became a grandmother.
20代でリーさんに会ったんだけど、30代で付き合い始めたんだ。
I met Lee-san in my 20's, but I started dating him in my 30's.
1980年代の後半から1990年代の初めにかけての日本の経済は「バブル経済」と呼ばれている。
The soaring Japanese economy from the second half of the 1980s to the early 1990s is known as a "bubble economy."
彼は２０代で会社を作り、３０代で、大金持ちになった。
He started a company in his 20's and became rich in his 30's.
Thursday, April 26, 2018
まま
The word まま can be used in a sentence alongside nouns, verbs, and adjectives to express that the state of X remains unchanged, or that someone does something without changing X's state. Its exact translation is pretty heavily context dependent.
あのまま日本に残っていたら、もっと日本語が上手になっただろう。
If I had stayed in Japan as I was, I wonder if my Japanese would have gotten better.
このお菓子は、冷たいまま食べるより、電子レンジで温めた方がおいしく食べられますよ。
You can enjoy this candy more if you heat it up with an electric range, rather than eating it while still cold.
疲れていたので、電気をつけたまま寝てしまった。ネクタイもしたままだった。
Since I was sick, I went to sleep with the lights still on. My tie was still in place, too.
日本の家には、靴を履いたまま入ってはいけないということを知っていましたか。
Did you know that with Japanese houses, you must not enter them while still wearing your shoes?
あのまま日本に残っていたら、もっと日本語が上手になっただろう。
If I had stayed in Japan as I was, I wonder if my Japanese would have gotten better.
このお菓子は、冷たいまま食べるより、電子レンジで温めた方がおいしく食べられますよ。
You can enjoy this candy more if you heat it up with an electric range, rather than eating it while still cold.
疲れていたので、電気をつけたまま寝てしまった。ネクタイもしたままだった。
Since I was sick, I went to sleep with the lights still on. My tie was still in place, too.
日本の家には、靴を履いたまま入ってはいけないということを知っていましたか。
Did you know that with Japanese houses, you must not enter them while still wearing your shoes?
ずっと
The word ずっと can be used to express that a state or action is ongoing or continuing in some state from one point in time to another. It often translates as "all the time", "all along", "throughout", or "ever since."
何年も前からずっと戦争が続いている。いったいいつ終わるだろうか。
War continues even through all these years. When on earth will it end?
リーさんは子供の時からずっとピアノをひくことが出来てるよな。
Lee-san has been able to play the piano all along, ever since he was a child.
私は彼のことが小学校の時からずっと好きだったんです。
I've liked him all along, ever since we were in elementary school.
夕べからずっと雪が降ってるんだな。
It's been snowing ever since last night.
何年も前からずっと戦争が続いている。いったいいつ終わるだろうか。
War continues even through all these years. When on earth will it end?
リーさんは子供の時からずっとピアノをひくことが出来てるよな。
Lee-san has been able to play the piano all along, ever since he was a child.
私は彼のことが小学校の時からずっと好きだったんです。
I've liked him all along, ever since we were in elementary school.
夕べからずっと雪が降ってるんだな。
It's been snowing ever since last night.
Wednesday, April 25, 2018
でもある
The structure X は Y でもある can be used to describe an additional property or trait that X has, where X has multiple such properties.
私と弟は年は３歳違うが、同じ日に生まれたので、今日は私の誕生日でもあり、弟の誕生日でもある。
My little brother and I are three years apart, but since we were born on the same day, today is my birthday, and also his birthday.
モールに行った時に、 プレッツェルのスタンドがあって、たくさんのセールでもあったんだ。
When I went to the mall, there were pretzel stands, and also lots of sales.
私が住んでいるアパートは周りが静かなだけでなく安全でもあるので、学生に人気がある。
The area around the apartment that I live in is not only quiet, but also safe, so it's popular with students.
結婚式では、たくさんの舞があった、美味しい食べ物でもあったんだよね。
At the wedding, there was a lot of dancing, and also a lot of delicious food.
私と弟は年は３歳違うが、同じ日に生まれたので、今日は私の誕生日でもあり、弟の誕生日でもある。
My little brother and I are three years apart, but since we were born on the same day, today is my birthday, and also his birthday.
モールに行った時に、 プレッツェルのスタンドがあって、たくさんのセールでもあったんだ。
When I went to the mall, there were pretzel stands, and also lots of sales.
私が住んでいるアパートは周りが静かなだけでなく安全でもあるので、学生に人気がある。
The area around the apartment that I live in is not only quiet, but also safe, so it's popular with students.
結婚式では、たくさんの舞があった、美味しい食べ物でもあったんだよね。
At the wedding, there was a lot of dancing, and also a lot of delicious food.
さ(あ)
The word さ or its elongated form さあ can be used after phrases or entire sentences to catch the listener's attention. However, it can also be used as a filler word to give pause or provide a "you know" or "like" meaning.
A: あれっ、その足、どうしたの。
B: 実はさあ、昨日、階段でころんじゃってさあ、骨、折っちゃったんだよ。
A: Hey, what happened to your leg?
B: To tell you the truth, yesterday I fell down the stairs and fractured a bone.
おい、夕べ徹夜しちゃったんだからさあ、今朝は食べたくて寝たいんだな。
Hey, I was up all last night, so this morning I want to eat and sleep.
キムさんってさあ、フランス語がぺらぺらなんだけど、日本語も上手なんだってさ。すごいね。
Kim-san is fluent in French, but her Japanese is good too. It's amazing.
チキンかステーキはさ、どっちのほうがいいのが分からない。
Chicken or steak - I'm not sure which one's better.
A: あれっ、その足、どうしたの。
B: 実はさあ、昨日、階段でころんじゃってさあ、骨、折っちゃったんだよ。
A: Hey, what happened to your leg?
B: To tell you the truth, yesterday I fell down the stairs and fractured a bone.
おい、夕べ徹夜しちゃったんだからさあ、今朝は食べたくて寝たいんだな。
Hey, I was up all last night, so this morning I want to eat and sleep.
キムさんってさあ、フランス語がぺらぺらなんだけど、日本語も上手なんだってさ。すごいね。
Kim-san is fluent in French, but her Japanese is good too. It's amazing.
チキンかステーキはさ、どっちのほうがいいのが分からない。
Chicken or steak - I'm not sure which one's better.
Tuesday, April 24, 2018
こそ
The particle こそ can be used to add emphasis to the previous word or phrase. It replaces the particles は, が, and を. It translates widely depending on context, but can often be read as "this is the X", "definitely", "only", or "it is X that..."
今年こそ日本に留学したいと思っている。
I think this is the year that I want to study abroad in Japan.
不動産屋に昨日見たアパートこそ買いたいんだと言ってたんだよ。
I told my real estate agent that the apartment I saw yesterday is definitely the one I want to buy.
サッカーの面白さはテレビで見ているだけでは分からない。スタジアムに行って実際に見てこそ本当の面白さが分かるのだ。
I don't understand the interest in just watching soccer on TV. I do understand the interest in going to the stadium and actually watching there.
結婚式でデザートはケーキとクッキーこそ欲しいんだな。
At our wedding, for desert I definitely want cake and cookies.
今年こそ日本に留学したいと思っている。
I think this is the year that I want to study abroad in Japan.
不動産屋に昨日見たアパートこそ買いたいんだと言ってたんだよ。
I told my real estate agent that the apartment I saw yesterday is definitely the one I want to buy.
サッカーの面白さはテレビで見ているだけでは分からない。スタジアムに行って実際に見てこそ本当の面白さが分かるのだ。
I don't understand the interest in just watching soccer on TV. I do understand the interest in going to the stadium and actually watching there.
結婚式でデザートはケーキとクッキーこそ欲しいんだな。
At our wedding, for desert I definitely want cake and cookies.
Verb stem + 込む
A verb stem + 込む can be used to mean a number of things. In general it tends to intensify the meaning or further express what is occurring with the original verb - to be deeply, thoroughly, or completely doing something. It can also express putting something into something else, or getting into something. It's best to learn the verbs individually and understand the meaning via context.
大きい音に驚いて、ガムを飲み込んでしまった。
I was surprised by a loud noise and ended up swallowing my gum.
日本の電車のアナウンスでは、よく「かけ込み乗車はおやめ下さい」という。
Japanese train announcements often say "Please do not rush aboard."
昨日は、久しぶりに会った友達と一晩中話し込んで、徹夜してしまった。
Yesterday in the evening I was deep in talk with a friend I hadn't met in awhile, and I ended up staying up all night.
自分は絶対に正しいと思い込んでいる人とは、あまり話したくない。
I don't really care to talk with people who are convinced that they are absolutely always right.
大きい音に驚いて、ガムを飲み込んでしまった。
I was surprised by a loud noise and ended up swallowing my gum.
日本の電車のアナウンスでは、よく「かけ込み乗車はおやめ下さい」という。
Japanese train announcements often say "Please do not rush aboard."
昨日は、久しぶりに会った友達と一晩中話し込んで、徹夜してしまった。
Yesterday in the evening I was deep in talk with a friend I hadn't met in awhile, and I ended up staying up all night.
自分は絶対に正しいと思い込んでいる人とは、あまり話したくない。
I don't really care to talk with people who are convinced that they are absolutely always right.
Monday, April 23, 2018
なし
なし can be added to words as a suffix to mean "without." It's used with で to modify verbs, with の to modify nouns, and with だ to form a predicate.
今はもうコンピュータなしの生活は考えられない。
Now, life without a computer is unimaginable.
犬と猫なしのリーさんはすごく悲しいよなぁ。
Lee-san without his cats and dogs is very sad.
あのレストランは週末は混んでいるけど、今日は水曜日だから、予約なしでも大丈夫だろう。
That restaurant is crowded on weekends, but since today is Wednesday, we'll probably be okay even without a reservation.
ヒントなしでBlue's Cluesのゲームをされるようになりたいんだよね。
I want to get to where I can do a game of Blue's Clues without any hints.
今はもうコンピュータなしの生活は考えられない。
Now, life without a computer is unimaginable.
犬と猫なしのリーさんはすごく悲しいよなぁ。
Lee-san without his cats and dogs is very sad.
あのレストランは週末は混んでいるけど、今日は水曜日だから、予約なしでも大丈夫だろう。
That restaurant is crowded on weekends, but since today is Wednesday, we'll probably be okay even without a reservation.
ヒントなしでBlue's Cluesのゲームをされるようになりたいんだよね。
I want to get to where I can do a game of Blue's Clues without any hints.
ことから
The phrase ことから can be used to express the reasoning for something. It often translates as "because" or "from the fact that..."
エコカーは空気を汚さず、ガソリン代もあまりかからないことから、環境にやさしい車だと言える。
Since eco cars don't pollute the atmosphere and don't take very much in gas, it's said that they're a good car for the environment.
どんな所にでも自動販売機が置いてあることから、日本は犯罪が少ない安全な国だと言う人もいる。
There are people who say that Japan has little crime and is a safe country, based on the fact that there are vending machines placed no matter where you are.
土の中から魚の骨や貝などが出てきたことから、ここは大昔、海だったということが分かった。
Because things like fish bones and shells turned up in the earth here, they've discovered that it used to be ocean long ago.
リーさんは野菜が好きじゃなくて果物だけ食べてることから、誕生日にりんごの木を贈ってあげるのが決めてたんだ。
Because Lee-san doesn't like vegetables and only eats fruits, for his birthday I've decided to get him an apple tree.
エコカーは空気を汚さず、ガソリン代もあまりかからないことから、環境にやさしい車だと言える。
Since eco cars don't pollute the atmosphere and don't take very much in gas, it's said that they're a good car for the environment.
どんな所にでも自動販売機が置いてあることから、日本は犯罪が少ない安全な国だと言う人もいる。
There are people who say that Japan has little crime and is a safe country, based on the fact that there are vending machines placed no matter where you are.
土の中から魚の骨や貝などが出てきたことから、ここは大昔、海だったということが分かった。
Because things like fish bones and shells turned up in the earth here, they've discovered that it used to be ocean long ago.
リーさんは野菜が好きじゃなくて果物だけ食べてることから、誕生日にりんごの木を贈ってあげるのが決めてたんだ。
Because Lee-san doesn't like vegetables and only eats fruits, for his birthday I've decided to get him an apple tree.
Friday, April 20, 2018
生かす
The verb 生かす literally means "to keep alive", but it is also commonly used to mean "to make the most of", "to make the best use of", or "to use effectively." This is often used in reference to skills, an experience, or other things like the property of an object.
将来は自分の能力を生かすことが出来る会社で働きたい。
In the future I want to work at a company where I can make the most of my abilities.
日本人は、「サービスが第一」という考え方を、ビジネスの様々なところで生かしている。
Japanese people utilize the notion of "service first" in various aspects of business.
プラスチックが持つ様々な特長は、多くの製品の中で生かされている。
The various merits of plastic have been utilized in many products.
日本に留学した経験を生かして、大学の留学アドバイザーになるつまりだ。
I plan to make the most of my experience studying abroad in Japan and become a university adviser in foreign studies.
将来は自分の能力を生かすことが出来る会社で働きたい。
In the future I want to work at a company where I can make the most of my abilities.
日本人は、「サービスが第一」という考え方を、ビジネスの様々なところで生かしている。
Japanese people utilize the notion of "service first" in various aspects of business.
プラスチックが持つ様々な特長は、多くの製品の中で生かされている。
The various merits of plastic have been utilized in many products.
日本に留学した経験を生かして、大学の留学アドバイザーになるつまりだ。
I plan to make the most of my experience studying abroad in Japan and become a university adviser in foreign studies.
考えられない
The i-adjective 考えられない can be used to express that something is unimaginable, unthinkable, or inconceivable.
漢字が800も書けるようになるなんて、日本語の勉強を始めた時には考えられなった。
Getting to the point where I could write 800 kanji was something inconceivable when I began studying Japanese.
アヤトは彼女の血の美味しさが考えられないって言ってた。
Ayato said that the taste of her blood is unimaginable.
将来、誰でも宇宙旅行が出来るようになるということは、考えられないことではありません。
In the future, the notion getting to where anyone can to take a trip to outer space isn't something that's unthinkable.
リーさんの中国と日本の歴史の知識は考えられないんだな。
Lee-san's knowledge of Chinese and Japanese history is inconceivable.
漢字が800も書けるようになるなんて、日本語の勉強を始めた時には考えられなった。
Getting to the point where I could write 800 kanji was something inconceivable when I began studying Japanese.
アヤトは彼女の血の美味しさが考えられないって言ってた。
Ayato said that the taste of her blood is unimaginable.
将来、誰でも宇宙旅行が出来るようになるということは、考えられないことではありません。
In the future, the notion getting to where anyone can to take a trip to outer space isn't something that's unthinkable.
リーさんの中国と日本の歴史の知識は考えられないんだな。
Lee-san's knowledge of Chinese and Japanese history is inconceivable.
Thursday, April 19, 2018
関する
The expression 関する literally means "related to", but it's often used in the same sense as について to modify nouns and verbs with a similar "concerning" or "regarding" meaning. It's also more common in spoken language.
この大学の図書館には、アジア経済に関する本がたくさんあります。
At this university's library, there are lots of books regarding Asian economics.
ウィキペディアのこの人物に関する情報は正しくないようだ。
Wikipedia's information regarding those figures seems to be incorrect.
コンピュータの知識に関しては、彼が一番だと思う。
When it comes to knowledge concerning computers, I think he's the best.
このサイトはとても役に立つけれど、セキュリティに関しては、問題が多い。
This site is really useful, but there are a lot of problems with regards to the security.
この大学の図書館には、アジア経済に関する本がたくさんあります。
At this university's library, there are lots of books regarding Asian economics.
ウィキペディアのこの人物に関する情報は正しくないようだ。
Wikipedia's information regarding those figures seems to be incorrect.
コンピュータの知識に関しては、彼が一番だと思う。
When it comes to knowledge concerning computers, I think he's the best.
このサイトはとても役に立つけれど、セキュリティに関しては、問題が多い。
This site is really useful, but there are a lot of problems with regards to the security.
第一
The word 第一 can be used with the particles の or に to modify nouns or verbs. It's generally translated as "first", "first of all", or "to begin with."
試験に合格できた第一の理由は、覚えた言葉や漢字が全部試験に出たことだ。
The number one reason I was able to pass the test is that all the words and kanji that I studied appeared on the test.
リーさんは猫と犬の健康が第一だと言ってたんだ。
Lee-san said that the health of his cat and dog comes first.
彼女の第一印象は悪かったのに、なぜか私と彼女はとてもいい友達になった。
Even though my first impression of her was bad, somehow her and I became really good friends.
週末時に、いつも第一に食べる食べ物はラーメンとお菓子だよね。
When it's the weekend, the first food that I eat is always ramen and sweets.
試験に合格できた第一の理由は、覚えた言葉や漢字が全部試験に出たことだ。
The number one reason I was able to pass the test is that all the words and kanji that I studied appeared on the test.
リーさんは猫と犬の健康が第一だと言ってたんだ。
Lee-san said that the health of his cat and dog comes first.
彼女の第一印象は悪かったのに、なぜか私と彼女はとてもいい友達になった。
Even though my first impression of her was bad, somehow her and I became really good friends.
週末時に、いつも第一に食べる食べ物はラーメンとお菓子だよね。
When it's the weekend, the first food that I eat is always ramen and sweets.
Wednesday, April 18, 2018
とされている
The phrase とされている can be used after making a statement to express that it is something generally thought, believed, or considered to be true.
昔はいいとされていたことが今はよくないとされていることがある。タバコはその一つだ。
There are things that were considered good long ago that are now considered bad. Tobacco is one of those things.
吸血鬼が悪いとされているけど、会った吸血鬼は優しいね。
Vampires are believed to be bad, but the vampires I've met are kind.
この絵はモネによって描かれたとされているが、絵の中にモネのサインは入っていない。
It's thought that this painting was painted by Monet, but his signature isn't there in the painting.
ダイヤモンドは希少だとされているけど、調査によると、そうじゃないの。
It's believed that diamond is rare, but according to the investigation, that's not the case.
昔はいいとされていたことが今はよくないとされていることがある。タバコはその一つだ。
There are things that were considered good long ago that are now considered bad. Tobacco is one of those things.
吸血鬼が悪いとされているけど、会った吸血鬼は優しいね。
Vampires are believed to be bad, but the vampires I've met are kind.
この絵はモネによって描かれたとされているが、絵の中にモネのサインは入っていない。
It's thought that this painting was painted by Monet, but his signature isn't there in the painting.
ダイヤモンドは希少だとされているけど、調査によると、そうじゃないの。
It's believed that diamond is rare, but according to the investigation, that's not the case.
いったい
The word いったい alongside a question word can be used to intensify whatever you're expressing or asking about. It often translates as something like "[what] on earth."
そんなにやせてしまって、いったいどうしたの？
How on earth did you lose so much weight?
いったいどうしてリーさんにおうむをあげたんだ？
Why the heck did you give Lee-san a parrot?
会議が始まってからもう３時間以上経っている。いったいいつ終わるのだろうか？
It's already been over three hours since the conference began. When on earth is it going to end?
いったいどこに私の靴を置いたんだな？
Where the heck did you put my shoes?
そんなにやせてしまって、いったいどうしたの？
How on earth did you lose so much weight?
いったいどうしてリーさんにおうむをあげたんだ？
Why the heck did you give Lee-san a parrot?
会議が始まってからもう３時間以上経っている。いったいいつ終わるのだろうか？
It's already been over three hours since the conference began. When on earth is it going to end?
いったいどこに私の靴を置いたんだな？
Where the heck did you put my shoes?
Friday, April 13, 2018
同士
The word 同士 can be used after a noun to express that X nouns do something together, or to/for/with/against one another. How wonderfully vague!
このサイトでは、iPodのユーザー同士が意見を交換し合うことが出来ます。
On this site, you can exchange opinions together amongst other iPod users.
お盆には毎年兄弟同士で集まって、両親の墓参りに行くことになっている。
Every year at the Festival of the Dead, siblings gather together and go visit their parents' graves.
次の試合は、強いチーム同士の戦いになるから、どちらが勝つかまったく分からない。
The next match will be strong teams competing against one another, so I'm not entirely sure which one will win.
子供同士のけんかが原因で、親同士の関係も悪くなってしまった。
Because of the kids fighting with one another, the parents' relationship with one another worsened.
このサイトでは、iPodのユーザー同士が意見を交換し合うことが出来ます。
On this site, you can exchange opinions together amongst other iPod users.
お盆には毎年兄弟同士で集まって、両親の墓参りに行くことになっている。
Every year at the Festival of the Dead, siblings gather together and go visit their parents' graves.
次の試合は、強いチーム同士の戦いになるから、どちらが勝つかまったく分からない。
The next match will be strong teams competing against one another, so I'm not entirely sure which one will win.
子供同士のけんかが原因で、親同士の関係も悪くなってしまった。
Because of the kids fighting with one another, the parents' relationship with one another worsened.
Thursday, April 12, 2018
まったく
The word まったく can have different meanings depending on how it's used in a sentence. In affirmative sentences, it's used to add emphasis, as in "totally", "completely", "entirely", or "extremely." In negative sentences, it's used to indicate complete negation, as in "not at all." In the construct まったく～わけじゃない, it's used for partial negation, as in "it's not that it's completely..."
このレポートはまったくだめだ。もう一度、書き直した方がいいと思う。
This report is completely awful. I think you should rewrite it again.
このカレーは辛すぎて、まったく食べられない。
This curry is too spicy, I can't eat it at all.
あの映画はまったく面白くなかった。時間のムダだった。
That movie wasn't interesting at all. It was a waste of time.
その人のことをまったく知らないというわけではないが、あまり話したことはない。
It's not that I completely don't know that person, but we haven't talked very much.
このレポートはまったくだめだ。もう一度、書き直した方がいいと思う。
This report is completely awful. I think you should rewrite it again.
このカレーは辛すぎて、まったく食べられない。
This curry is too spicy, I can't eat it at all.
あの映画はまったく面白くなかった。時間のムダだった。
That movie wasn't interesting at all. It was a waste of time.
その人のことをまったく知らないというわけではないが、あまり話したことはない。
It's not that I completely don't know that person, but we haven't talked very much.
Wednesday, April 11, 2018
おそらく
The word おそらく means "probably", and often occurs in a sentence alongside the words でしょう and だろう.
おそらく来年は、日本に行けるだろう。
I can probably go to Japan next year.
宗教の問題が解決しない限り、おそらくこの戦争は終わらないだろう。
If we don't resolve these religious problems, this war is probably not going to end.
今度、隣の土地に新しいビルが建つので、おそらくうるさくなるでしょう。
There's a new building being built on my neighbor's land soon, so it's probably going to get noisy.
まったく同じ絵を美術館で見たことがあるから、この絵はおそらく偽者でしょう。
I've seen that exact painting at an art museum before, so this one is probably a fake.
おそらく来年は、日本に行けるだろう。
I can probably go to Japan next year.
宗教の問題が解決しない限り、おそらくこの戦争は終わらないだろう。
If we don't resolve these religious problems, this war is probably not going to end.
今度、隣の土地に新しいビルが建つので、おそらくうるさくなるでしょう。
There's a new building being built on my neighbor's land soon, so it's probably going to get noisy.
まったく同じ絵を美術館で見たことがあるから、この絵はおそらく偽者でしょう。
I've seen that exact painting at an art museum before, so this one is probably a fake.
と並んで
The phrase と並んで can be used to provide examples to compare to the main subject of a sentence. It's usually seen in written language and is often translated as "as well as" or "just like."
アラビア語は、日本語やロシア語と並んで難しい言葉だと言われている。
Arabic is a language that's said to be difficult, just like Japanese and Russian.
リーさんは、彼女と並んで、優しい人だよね。
Lee-san, along with his girlfriend, are nice people.
この大学のビジネス学部は、医学部と並んで入るのが難しいらしい。
This university's business department seems to be difficult to get into, just like medical school.
作ったケーキは、野菜や果物と並んで、このパーティーに美味しい食べ物だな。
The cake that I made, as well as the fruits and vegetables, will be delicious foods for this party.
アラビア語は、日本語やロシア語と並んで難しい言葉だと言われている。
Arabic is a language that's said to be difficult, just like Japanese and Russian.
リーさんは、彼女と並んで、優しい人だよね。
Lee-san, along with his girlfriend, are nice people.
この大学のビジネス学部は、医学部と並んで入るのが難しいらしい。
This university's business department seems to be difficult to get into, just like medical school.
作ったケーキは、野菜や果物と並んで、このパーティーに美味しい食べ物だな。
The cake that I made, as well as the fruits and vegetables, will be delicious foods for this party.
Tuesday, April 10, 2018
Noun の上で
A noun + の上で, or a noun + の上 can be used to indicate that a statement only refers to that particular noun. It's common in written language and generally translates as "in terms of", "from the viewpoint of", "as far as", or "according to."
日本の国土は狭そうに思われているが、数字の上で見ると、そうでもない。
Japan's national land is thought of as small, but when you look at it from a numeric perspective, that's not the case.
この公園は地区の上では家から近いように見えるが、歩くと結構時間がかかる。
According to the map, this park looks like it's close to home, but when walking it takes a fair bit of time.
田中さんは、健康上の問題があって、仕事を辞めた。
Tanaka-san had health problems, so he quit work.
日本の歴史上、明治維新は大きい意味を持っている。
In terms of Japanese history, the Meiji Restoration holds great significance.
日本の国土は狭そうに思われているが、数字の上で見ると、そうでもない。
Japan's national land is thought of as small, but when you look at it from a numeric perspective, that's not the case.
この公園は地区の上では家から近いように見えるが、歩くと結構時間がかかる。
According to the map, this park looks like it's close to home, but when walking it takes a fair bit of time.
田中さんは、健康上の問題があって、仕事を辞めた。
Tanaka-san had health problems, so he quit work.
日本の歴史上、明治維新は大きい意味を持っている。
In terms of Japanese history, the Meiji Restoration holds great significance.
Monday, April 9, 2018
からすると
The phrase からすると is typically used after a noun or noun phrase to introduce the source or basis for one's judgment. It generally translates as "judging from..."
キッチンから流れてくるにおいからすると、今日の晩ご飯はカレーライスかなあ。
Judging by the smell coming from the kitchen, I wonder if tonight's dinner is curry rice.
リーさんの顔からすると、日曜日に試合でチームは敗れちゃったんだな。
Judging by Lee-san's face, his team was defeated in the match on Sunday.
この内容からすると、このマンガは子供向けではなく、大人向けのマンガだろう。
Judging by the contents, this manga probably isn't aimed at kids, but is aimed at adults.
猫のお腹からすると、焼き鳥をたくさん食べたばかりよね。
Judging by the cat's stomach, he just ate a bunch of the roast chicken.
キッチンから流れてくるにおいからすると、今日の晩ご飯はカレーライスかなあ。
Judging by the smell coming from the kitchen, I wonder if tonight's dinner is curry rice.
リーさんの顔からすると、日曜日に試合でチームは敗れちゃったんだな。
Judging by Lee-san's face, his team was defeated in the match on Sunday.
この内容からすると、このマンガは子供向けではなく、大人向けのマンガだろう。
Judging by the contents, this manga probably isn't aimed at kids, but is aimed at adults.
猫のお腹からすると、焼き鳥をたくさん食べたばかりよね。
Judging by the cat's stomach, he just ate a bunch of the roast chicken.
べき
A plain verb + べき can be used to express the strong judgment that someone should do something. If a する verb is used, it can be written as either すべき or するべき. The べき portion can be conjugated to the negative or past with じゃない and だった as if it were a normal noun.
自分で出来ることは、自分ですべきだ。
You should do things that you can do on your own, on your own.
電車の中や病院などでは、携帯電話を使うべきではない。
In things like trains and hospitals, you shouldn't use your phone.
彼は彼女と結婚するべきではなかったと思う。
I don't think that he should've married her.
するべきことが多すぎて、時間はいくらあっても足りない。
I have too many things I should do, and not enough time.
自分で出来ることは、自分ですべきだ。
You should do things that you can do on your own, on your own.
電車の中や病院などでは、携帯電話を使うべきではない。
In things like trains and hospitals, you shouldn't use your phone.
彼は彼女と結婚するべきではなかったと思う。
I don't think that he should've married her.
するべきことが多すぎて、時間はいくらあっても足りない。
I have too many things I should do, and not enough time.
Friday, April 6, 2018
に至るまで
The sentence structure Noun1 + から Noun2 + に至るまで can be used to indicate a span of time or space, while emphasizing the size or distance of it. It can be translated as "from X all the way to Y" and is generally used in writing.
北海道から沖縄に至るまで、同じ時間に同じNHKニュースが見られます。
From Hokkaido all the way to Okinawa, you can watch the same NHK news at the same time.
私の家からリーさんの家に至るまで、ガソリンスタンドがないんだな。
From my house all the way to Lee-san's, there is no gas station.
このゲームは子供から大人に至るまで、誰でも楽しめます。
From kids all the way to adults, anyone can enjoy this game.
スバル君はここから海岸に至るまで、砂だけだと言ってたんだよね。
Subaru-kun said that from here all the way to the coast, there is only sand.
北海道から沖縄に至るまで、同じ時間に同じNHKニュースが見られます。
From Hokkaido all the way to Okinawa, you can watch the same NHK news at the same time.
私の家からリーさんの家に至るまで、ガソリンスタンドがないんだな。
From my house all the way to Lee-san's, there is no gas station.
このゲームは子供から大人に至るまで、誰でも楽しめます。
From kids all the way to adults, anyone can enjoy this game.
スバル君はここから海岸に至るまで、砂だけだと言ってたんだよね。
Subaru-kun said that from here all the way to the coast, there is only sand.
～ずつ
A number or amount + ずつ can be used to express that something happens X at a time, or per X interval, or little by little.
私は毎日漢字を五つずつ覚えることにしている。
I make it a practice to learn five kanji every day.
みんなが同時に話さないで、一人ずつ順番に話して下さい。
Without everyone speaking at the same time, please speak in turns, one at a time.
「とびら」サイトを利用する人が毎日少しずつ増えている。
The amount of people using the Tobira site increases a little each day.
ホテルのビュッフェで色々な種類の料理をちょっとずつ食べてみた。
At the hotel buffet, I tried the variety of food little by little.
私は毎日漢字を五つずつ覚えることにしている。
I make it a practice to learn five kanji every day.
みんなが同時に話さないで、一人ずつ順番に話して下さい。
Without everyone speaking at the same time, please speak in turns, one at a time.
「とびら」サイトを利用する人が毎日少しずつ増えている。
The amount of people using the Tobira site increases a little each day.
ホテルのビュッフェで色々な種類の料理をちょっとずつ食べてみた。
At the hotel buffet, I tried the variety of food little by little.
Thursday, April 5, 2018
と共に
The phrase と共に (とともに) can be used to express that something occurs or is done alongside X. It generally translates as "together", "with", or "along with."
地震と共に、火事やつなみが起こった。
Along with the earthquake, fires and a tsunami occurred.
両親が亡くなった後、私は兄と共に二人で助け合って生きてきました。
After our parents died, my brother and I helped one another to continue living.
言葉は時代と共に変化する。
Language changes together with the time period.
コンピュータの普及と共に、Eメールを使う人が増えた。
With the spread of computers, people who use email increased.
地震と共に、火事やつなみが起こった。
Along with the earthquake, fires and a tsunami occurred.
両親が亡くなった後、私は兄と共に二人で助け合って生きてきました。
After our parents died, my brother and I helped one another to continue living.
言葉は時代と共に変化する。
Language changes together with the time period.
コンピュータの普及と共に、Eメールを使う人が増えた。
With the spread of computers, people who use email increased.
風
The suffix 風 (read as ふう) can be added to nouns to say "X style/type" or "looks like X." Nouns become no-adjectives when they're in this state.
このさむらい風の人形は、いくらですか。
How much is this samurai-style doll?
デパートでアリスはねこ風のバックパックを買ったんだ。
At the department store, Alice bought a kitty-style backpack.
A: 今、誰かここに来ませんでしたか。
B: ええ、ちょっと前にサラリーマン風の人が来ました。
A: Hasn't anyone come here yet?
B: Yes, a salaryman-looking person came a little while ago.
リーさんは洋風のレストランが好きだと言ってたんだよ。
Lee-san said he preferred Western-style restaurants.
このさむらい風の人形は、いくらですか。
How much is this samurai-style doll?
デパートでアリスはねこ風のバックパックを買ったんだ。
At the department store, Alice bought a kitty-style backpack.
A: 今、誰かここに来ませんでしたか。
B: ええ、ちょっと前にサラリーマン風の人が来ました。
A: Hasn't anyone come here yet?
B: Yes, a salaryman-looking person came a little while ago.
リーさんは洋風のレストランが好きだと言ってたんだよ。
Lee-san said he preferred Western-style restaurants.
Wednesday, April 4, 2018
ばかりでなく
The structure X + ばかりでなく + Y can be used to mean "not only X but also Y." It's rather similar to another structure we learned, which used だけ instead of ばかり. It's typically used in written language.
一生懸命勉強したら、日本語が上手になったばかりでなく、成績もよくなった。
When I studied Japanese as hard as I could, not only did my Japanese get good, but my grades improved as well.
リーさんはかっこいいばかりでなく、お金持ちだよね。
Lee-san is not only handsome, but also rich. (I'm having flashbacks here)
京都には日本国内からばかりでなく、世界中から観光客が来る。
Tourists come to Kyoto not only from inside Japan, but also from around the world.
お祭りに行った時、たこ焼きばかりでなく、焼き鳥も食べたんだ。
When we went to the festival, we ate not only takoyaki, but also yakitori.
一生懸命勉強したら、日本語が上手になったばかりでなく、成績もよくなった。
When I studied Japanese as hard as I could, not only did my Japanese get good, but my grades improved as well.
リーさんはかっこいいばかりでなく、お金持ちだよね。
Lee-san is not only handsome, but also rich. (I'm having flashbacks here)
京都には日本国内からばかりでなく、世界中から観光客が来る。
Tourists come to Kyoto not only from inside Japan, but also from around the world.
お祭りに行った時、たこ焼きばかりでなく、焼き鳥も食べたんだ。
When we went to the festival, we ate not only takoyaki, but also yakitori.
各
The word 各 can be used as a prefix to mean "each" when paired with its noun. If the noun following it is not known, then its meaning is closer to "various" instead.
各学年から選ばれた学生が、スピーチコンテストに出ることになった。
Students selected from each grade will participate in a speech contest.
リーさんは各子に花をあげたんだよね。
Lee-san gave flowers to every girl.
アメリカでは、お酒が飲める年齢についての規制は、各州でそれぞれ違う。
In America, laws regarding the age at which you can drink alcohol differ in each state.
公園に行った時、怖そうかな。だから、各子供が逃げてたんだな。
When I went to the park, I wonder if I seemed scary, because every kid ran away.
各学年から選ばれた学生が、スピーチコンテストに出ることになった。
Students selected from each grade will participate in a speech contest.
リーさんは各子に花をあげたんだよね。
Lee-san gave flowers to every girl.
アメリカでは、お酒が飲める年齢についての規制は、各州でそれぞれ違う。
In America, laws regarding the age at which you can drink alcohol differ in each state.
公園に行った時、怖そうかな。だから、各子供が逃げてたんだな。
When I went to the park, I wonder if I seemed scary, because every kid ran away.
Tuesday, April 3, 2018
で言うと
The phrase で言うと can be used to relate something to a different system or framework, as Tobira says. Examples include a different unit of measurement (in to cm), different languages, or different types of calendars. It often reads as "in terms of", "according to", or "from the viewpoint of."
今の気温は華氏で50度だから、摂氏で言うと10度ぐらいだ。
The current temperature in Fahrenheit is 50 degrees, so in Celsius it's about 10 degrees.
西暦2000年は平成で言うと平成12年に当たります。
The year 2000 AD in terms of Heisei would equate to 12 Heisei.
僕の身長は6フィート、メートル法で言うと約180センチだ。
I'm 6 feet tall, and according to the metric system that would be 180 centimeters.
病気の人に言う「お大事に」という表現は、英語で言うと "Please take care." に当たります。
The expression 「お大事に」that you say to sick people is equivalent to "Please take care" in terms of English.
今の気温は華氏で50度だから、摂氏で言うと10度ぐらいだ。
The current temperature in Fahrenheit is 50 degrees, so in Celsius it's about 10 degrees.
西暦2000年は平成で言うと平成12年に当たります。
The year 2000 AD in terms of Heisei would equate to 12 Heisei.
僕の身長は6フィート、メートル法で言うと約180センチだ。
I'm 6 feet tall, and according to the metric system that would be 180 centimeters.
病気の人に言う「お大事に」という表現は、英語で言うと "Please take care." に当たります。
The expression 「お大事に」that you say to sick people is equivalent to "Please take care" in terms of English.
～からにかけて
The structure Noun 1 + から Noun 2 + にかけて is often used in writing to indicate a span of time or space. It's generally translated as "from Noun 1 to Noun 2."
年末から年始にかけて、ヨーロッパを旅行しました。
From the end of the year to the beginning of the year, I traveled Europe.
学校からリーさんの家にかけて、アパートも十軒あるんだな。
From the school to Lee-san's house, there's as many as ten apartment buildings.
ここから隣の町にかけて、スーパーやレストランが並んでいるので、道がとても混む。
Since supermarkets and restaurants line the area from here to the next town over, the streets are very crowded.
今から永遠にかけて、いつもきみを愛してるよ。
I'll always love you, from now to eternity.
年末から年始にかけて、ヨーロッパを旅行しました。
From the end of the year to the beginning of the year, I traveled Europe.
学校からリーさんの家にかけて、アパートも十軒あるんだな。
From the school to Lee-san's house, there's as many as ten apartment buildings.
ここから隣の町にかけて、スーパーやレストランが並んでいるので、道がとても混む。
Since supermarkets and restaurants line the area from here to the next town over, the streets are very crowded.
今から永遠にかけて、いつもきみを愛してるよ。
I'll always love you, from now to eternity.
Monday, April 2, 2018
を通して
The phrase X を通して can be used to express that something is done or
something occurs through or via the medium of X. In general, X can be
any type of noun.
彼が私を好きだということは、彼の友達を通して聞いた。とても嬉しかった。
I heard that he likes me through a friend of his. I was so happy.
インターネットを通して、夫を会ったんだよ。
I met my husband via the internet.
コンピュータウイルスは、インターネットやメールだけでなく、DVDやCDを通して入ることがあるので、気をつけて下さい。
Since you can get computer viruses not only through the internet and email, but also DVD's and CD's, please be careful.
同僚を通して、リーさんは仕事を辞めてると聞いたけど、誰にも教えてはいけないね。
I heard via a co-worker that Lee-san is quitting his job, but you can't tell anyone.
彼が私を好きだということは、彼の友達を通して聞いた。とても嬉しかった。
I heard that he likes me through a friend of his. I was so happy.
インターネットを通して、夫を会ったんだよ。
I met my husband via the internet.
コンピュータウイルスは、インターネットやメールだけでなく、DVDやCDを通して入ることがあるので、気をつけて下さい。
Since you can get computer viruses not only through the internet and email, but also DVD's and CD's, please be careful.
同僚を通して、リーさんは仕事を辞めてると聞いたけど、誰にも教えてはいけないね。
I heard via a co-worker that Lee-san is quitting his job, but you can't tell anyone.
少なくない
The word 少なくない is a double negative from the original word 少ない. It generally means "many", "much", "plenty of", or "not a few." It cannot be used to directly modify nouns.
給料は少なくないのに、あまり貯金が出来ないのはどうしてだろうか。
I wonder why I can't save very much money, even though I have a good salary.
この学校でバカ学生は少なくないから、仲良くしにくいんだな。
Since there are so many stupid students at this school, it's hard to make friends.
日本に住んでいた時は地震が少なくなかったから、本棚のそばには寝ないようにしていた。
When I was living in Japan there were a lot of earthquakes, so I made sure not to sleep next to bookshelves.
友達は好きなホラーの映画は少なくないけど、ロマンチックの映画は嫌いんだ。
There are plenty of horror movies that my friend loves, but he hates romantic movies.
給料は少なくないのに、あまり貯金が出来ないのはどうしてだろうか。
I wonder why I can't save very much money, even though I have a good salary.
この学校でバカ学生は少なくないから、仲良くしにくいんだな。
Since there are so many stupid students at this school, it's hard to make friends.
日本に住んでいた時は地震が少なくなかったから、本棚のそばには寝ないようにしていた。
When I was living in Japan there were a lot of earthquakes, so I made sure not to sleep next to bookshelves.
友達は好きなホラーの映画は少なくないけど、ロマンチックの映画は嫌いんだ。
There are plenty of horror movies that my friend loves, but he hates romantic movies.
Monday, March 26, 2018
～かというと
A question word + かというと can literally be read as "if I were to tell you who/what/when/etc." Its intent is to emphasize the information that follows, or to purposefully delay providing that information to create suspense or dramatic effect.
どちらかというと is a set phrase that means "if anything" or "if I have to decide." A "why" word like どうして or なぜ + かというと is used to mean "because" or "the reason is." Other question words with this phrase can be read as "to tell you who/what/when..."
スミスさんは、日本語が上手だ。なぜかというと、日本に長く住んでいたからだ。
Smith-san's Japanese is good. The reason is that he lived in Japan for a long time.
私は辛い食べ物が好きだから、どちらかというと日本料理より、韓国料理の方が好きだ。
I like spicy foods, so if I had to decide, I like Korean food more than Japanese food.
A: 今度のミーティングはいつですか。
B: えっと、今度のミーティングはいつかというと、あっ、来週の水曜日ですね。
A: When is the next meeting?
B: Er, to tell you when the next meeting is, ah, it's next Wednesday.
このコンピュータのメモリは、どのぐらいかというと、2GBぐらいです。
As for this computer's memory, to tell you how much it has, it's about 2 GB.
どちらかというと is a set phrase that means "if anything" or "if I have to decide." A "why" word like どうして or なぜ + かというと is used to mean "because" or "the reason is." Other question words with this phrase can be read as "to tell you who/what/when..."
スミスさんは、日本語が上手だ。なぜかというと、日本に長く住んでいたからだ。
Smith-san's Japanese is good. The reason is that he lived in Japan for a long time.
私は辛い食べ物が好きだから、どちらかというと日本料理より、韓国料理の方が好きだ。
I like spicy foods, so if I had to decide, I like Korean food more than Japanese food.
A: 今度のミーティングはいつですか。
B: えっと、今度のミーティングはいつかというと、あっ、来週の水曜日ですね。
A: When is the next meeting?
B: Er, to tell you when the next meeting is, ah, it's next Wednesday.
このコンピュータのメモリは、どのぐらいかというと、2GBぐらいです。
As for this computer's memory, to tell you how much it has, it's about 2 GB.
に対して 2.0
A noun + に対して can be used to describe something towards, for, or with regard to that noun. When used to modify other nouns, the form に対する is used instead.
日本語では、目上の人に対して「あなた」と呼ぶのはとても失礼なことだ。
In Japanese, calling someone who's your superior "anata" is very rude.
税金を払うことは、国民の国に対する義務である。
Paying taxes is the citizens' duty towards their country.
日本語を勉強して、日本の歴史に対する興味がさらに強くなった。
In studying Japanese, my interest for Japanese history became even stronger.
日本語や中国語を勉強して、アジアの国々に対する見方が変わった。
In studying Japanese and Chinese, my perspective towards Asian countries changed.
日本語では、目上の人に対して「あなた」と呼ぶのはとても失礼なことだ。
In Japanese, calling someone who's your superior "anata" is very rude.
税金を払うことは、国民の国に対する義務である。
Paying taxes is the citizens' duty towards their country.
日本語を勉強して、日本の歴史に対する興味がさらに強くなった。
In studying Japanese, my interest for Japanese history became even stronger.
日本語や中国語を勉強して、アジアの国々に対する見方が変わった。
In studying Japanese and Chinese, my perspective towards Asian countries changed.
Saturday, March 24, 2018
それなら
Beginning a sentence with それなら provides a meaning of "if so", "then", or "if that's the case." It references a previous statement and usually goes on to provide some sort of response on it.
A: 今夜、どこかおいしいレストランで食事したいと思っているんだけど。
B: ああ、それなら、新しくできた和食レストランに行ってみたら？なかなかおいしかった。
A: Tonight I think I want to eat at a good restaurant...
B: Ah, then why don't you try going to the new Japanese restaurant? They were pretty tasty.
それなら、リーさんは指輪を買って、アリスにあげたほうがいいね。
If that's the case, Lee-san should buy the ring and give it to Alice.
両親は毎日のように、よく勉強していい大学に入りなさいといいます。それなら、私が勉強している時、弟や妹に静かにするように言ってほしいと思います。
Almost every day my parents tell me to study well to get into a good university. If that's the case, I think I want to tell my little brother and sister to be quiet whenever I'm studying.
それなら全て捨てていきたい。
If so, I want to through everything away. (from Ayato's lovely "Addicted" song)
A: 今夜、どこかおいしいレストランで食事したいと思っているんだけど。
B: ああ、それなら、新しくできた和食レストランに行ってみたら？なかなかおいしかった。
A: Tonight I think I want to eat at a good restaurant...
B: Ah, then why don't you try going to the new Japanese restaurant? They were pretty tasty.
それなら、リーさんは指輪を買って、アリスにあげたほうがいいね。
If that's the case, Lee-san should buy the ring and give it to Alice.
両親は毎日のように、よく勉強していい大学に入りなさいといいます。それなら、私が勉強している時、弟や妹に静かにするように言ってほしいと思います。
Almost every day my parents tell me to study well to get into a good university. If that's the case, I think I want to tell my little brother and sister to be quiet whenever I'm studying.
それなら全て捨てていきたい。
If so, I want to through everything away. (from Ayato's lovely "Addicted" song)
Friday, March 23, 2018
Non-Past Verb + ことはない
A non-past verb plus ことはない can be used to express "don't have to", "don't need to", or "there's no need to..." The は may be dropped in casual conversation.
次の電車がすぐ来るから、急ぐことはありません。ゆっくり行きましょう。
The next train will come soon, so there's no need to rush. Let's take our time.
アルフォンゾは舌がないから、恐れることないんだ。
Alfonzo doesn't have a tongue, so there's no need to be afraid.
インターネットで注文すればいいから、店まで買いに行くことはないよ。
Since you can order things on the internet, you don't have to go to the store to shop anymore.
金持ちのようになってたから、お金に心配することはなんだよ。
Since we've gotten to the point where we're rich, we don't have to worry about money.
次の電車がすぐ来るから、急ぐことはありません。ゆっくり行きましょう。
The next train will come soon, so there's no need to rush. Let's take our time.
アルフォンゾは舌がないから、恐れることないんだ。
Alfonzo doesn't have a tongue, so there's no need to be afraid.
インターネットで注文すればいいから、店まで買いに行くことはないよ。
Since you can order things on the internet, you don't have to go to the store to shop anymore.
金持ちのようになってたから、お金に心配することはなんだよ。
Since we've gotten to the point where we're rich, we don't have to worry about money.
だが
Beginning a statement with the simple だが can show that the previous sentence and the current sentence have contrasting or opposing ideas. It's generally used in written language and reads as "but" or "however."
私は日本文学を研究したいと思っている。だが、両親は私に医者になってほしがっている。
I've been thinking that I want to research Japanese literature. But, my parents want me to become a doctor.
リーさんは毎日消防士になりたいと言っていました。だが、今日は、大統領になりたいと言っています。
Every day, Lee-san said that he wanted to become a firefighter. However, today he's saying that he wants to become president.
Wikipediaは何かを調べる時にとても便利だ。だが、間違った情報もたくさんあるので、注意した方がいい。
Wikipedia is very convenient when investigating something. However, it also has a lot of incorrect information, so you'd better be careful there.
電車にかばんを忘れてしまったと思っていました。だが、彼氏はベッドの下に見つけました。
I thought I forgot my bag on the train. But my boyfriend found it under the bed.
私は日本文学を研究したいと思っている。だが、両親は私に医者になってほしがっている。
I've been thinking that I want to research Japanese literature. But, my parents want me to become a doctor.
リーさんは毎日消防士になりたいと言っていました。だが、今日は、大統領になりたいと言っています。
Every day, Lee-san said that he wanted to become a firefighter. However, today he's saying that he wants to become president.
Wikipediaは何かを調べる時にとても便利だ。だが、間違った情報もたくさんあるので、注意した方がいい。
Wikipedia is very convenient when investigating something. However, it also has a lot of incorrect information, so you'd better be careful there.
電車にかばんを忘れてしまったと思っていました。だが、彼氏はベッドの下に見つけました。
I thought I forgot my bag on the train. But my boyfriend found it under the bed.
Thursday, March 22, 2018
～ことに
A noun, adjective, or verb + ことに can be used to express the speaker's feelings about what is said in the next part of the sentence. It's limited to a certain set of words and is translated as something like "it is X that..." as in "it is sad that..." or "I am X that..." as in "I am happy that..." A couple verb examples from Tobira are 驚いたことに (to one's surprise) and 腹の立つことに (what makes me angry is that...)
悲しいことに、大学を卒業してから、大学時代の友達と会えなくなってしまった。
I'm sad that once I graduate university, I won't be able to see any of my university friends anymore.
嬉しいことに、シュウは学校のあとに家にくるって言ってた。
I'm happy that Shuu said he'll come over to my house after school.
残念なことに、私達のチームは最後の試合で負けてしまった。
To my regret, our team lost at the end of the match.
驚いたことに、カナトはお菓子を食べないで寝るんだよ。
To my surprise, Kanato went to bed without eating any sweets.
悲しいことに、大学を卒業してから、大学時代の友達と会えなくなってしまった。
I'm sad that once I graduate university, I won't be able to see any of my university friends anymore.
嬉しいことに、シュウは学校のあとに家にくるって言ってた。
I'm happy that Shuu said he'll come over to my house after school.
残念なことに、私達のチームは最後の試合で負けてしまった。
To my regret, our team lost at the end of the match.
驚いたことに、カナトはお菓子を食べないで寝るんだよ。
To my surprise, Kanato went to bed without eating any sweets.
上に
The word 上に can be used to introduce additional information in a sentence, providing greater emphasis than something like それに. It can be read as "in addition to...", "besides", "not only... but also...", or "as well."
最近の子供は、外で遊ばない上に本も読まないらしい。
It seems like not only do kids these days not play outside, but they also don't read books.
リーさんはよく歌える上にギターを引けて、かっこいいね。
Not only can Lee-san sing well, but he can also play the guitar - he's so cool.
このクラスは毎月試験がある上に宿題もたくさんあるから、とても大変だ。
This class has a lot of homework in addition to tests every month, so it's really tough.
スバル君は血を吸うのが好きな上にピアノを引くのが好きだよ。
Subaru-kun likes sucking blood, and he likes playing the piano as well.
最近の子供は、外で遊ばない上に本も読まないらしい。
It seems like not only do kids these days not play outside, but they also don't read books.
リーさんはよく歌える上にギターを引けて、かっこいいね。
Not only can Lee-san sing well, but he can also play the guitar - he's so cool.
このクラスは毎月試験がある上に宿題もたくさんあるから、とても大変だ。
This class has a lot of homework in addition to tests every month, so it's really tough.
スバル君は血を吸うのが好きな上にピアノを引くのが好きだよ。
Subaru-kun likes sucking blood, and he likes playing the piano as well.
Wednesday, March 21, 2018
という点から考えると
A noun or phrase + という点から考えると can be used to indicate a view on something, from the standpoint of X. It's often translated as "to view from the standpoint of X", or "from the perspective of X."
教育という点から考えると、マンガにはいい点と悪い点がある。
From the perspective of education, manga has good and bad points.
便利さという点から考えると、このアパートが一番だ。
From the standpoint of convenience, this apartment is the best.
面白さという点から考えると、この小説はあまり面白くないが、でも、歴史的なことが分かるので勉強になる。
From the perspective of interest, this novel is not very interesting, but since it makes historical matters clear, it is informative.
教育の平等という点から考えると、現在の教育制度には問題がある。
From the standpoint of equality in education, the current educational system has problems.
教育という点から考えると、マンガにはいい点と悪い点がある。
From the perspective of education, manga has good and bad points.
便利さという点から考えると、このアパートが一番だ。
From the standpoint of convenience, this apartment is the best.
面白さという点から考えると、この小説はあまり面白くないが、でも、歴史的なことが分かるので勉強になる。
From the perspective of interest, this novel is not very interesting, but since it makes historical matters clear, it is informative.
教育の平等という点から考えると、現在の教育制度には問題がある。
From the standpoint of equality in education, the current educational system has problems.
～のは事実だ
A sentence or statement + (という)のは事実だ can be used when the speaker wants to express that something is true or a fact. It's generally read as "It's true/a fact that..." Creative, huh?
東京は物価が高いことだけでなく、土地も狭いので、暮らしにくいというのは事実だ。
It's a fact that not only are Tokyo prices expensive, but because it's a small region, it's difficult to live there too.
リーさんがアリスちゃんの彼氏というのは事実だけど、彼女が好きなわけじゃないでしょ。
It's true that Lee-san is Alice's boyfriend, but that doesn't mean he likes her.
私が彼のことが好きだというのは事実だが、将来彼と結婚しようと思っているわけではない。
It's true that I like him, but that doesn't mean that I've decided to marry him in the future.
ライトはヴァンパイアのは事実だけど、悪い人じゃないんだよ。
It's true that Laito is a vampire, but he's not a bad person. (or is he?)
東京は物価が高いことだけでなく、土地も狭いので、暮らしにくいというのは事実だ。
It's a fact that not only are Tokyo prices expensive, but because it's a small region, it's difficult to live there too.
リーさんがアリスちゃんの彼氏というのは事実だけど、彼女が好きなわけじゃないでしょ。
It's true that Lee-san is Alice's boyfriend, but that doesn't mean he likes her.
私が彼のことが好きだというのは事実だが、将来彼と結婚しようと思っているわけではない。
It's true that I like him, but that doesn't mean that I've decided to marry him in the future.
ライトはヴァンパイアのは事実だけど、悪い人じゃないんだよ。
It's true that Laito is a vampire, but he's not a bad person. (or is he?)
Tuesday, March 20, 2018
したがって
The word したがって can be used at the beginning of a sentence to express that the following statement is a logical consequence of what was stated in the previous sentence. It's used in written language and often translated as "therefore", "accordingly", "consequently", or "as a result."
英語は世界で最も使われている言葉の一つだ。したがって、英語を義務教育の中に入れている国は多い。
English is one of the most used languages in the world. As a result, there are many countries that include it within their compulsory education.
この季節には、モールがにぎやかだな。したがって、クリスマスの前に買い物したほうがいいよ。
The mall is really bustling this time of year. So, you should do your shopping before Christmas.
コーヒーにはたくさんカフェインが入っている。したがって、飲み過ぎると寝られなくなる。
Coffee contains a lot of caffeine. Therefore, if you drink too much of it, you'll get to where you can't sleep.
先月リーさんは仕事を辞めたんだよ。したがって、今お金がないんだ。
Lee-san quit his job last month. Consequently, he has no money now.
英語は世界で最も使われている言葉の一つだ。したがって、英語を義務教育の中に入れている国は多い。
English is one of the most used languages in the world. As a result, there are many countries that include it within their compulsory education.
この季節には、モールがにぎやかだな。したがって、クリスマスの前に買い物したほうがいいよ。
The mall is really bustling this time of year. So, you should do your shopping before Christmas.
コーヒーにはたくさんカフェインが入っている。したがって、飲み過ぎると寝られなくなる。
Coffee contains a lot of caffeine. Therefore, if you drink too much of it, you'll get to where you can't sleep.
先月リーさんは仕事を辞めたんだよ。したがって、今お金がないんだ。
Lee-san quit his job last month. Consequently, he has no money now.
X でも Y でも
The structure Xでも Yでも can be used to provide examples for something that's been stated in a sentence. It it implies that there are things other than the given examples that make the statement true. This differs from XもYも, which means "both X and Y" and does not imply such a thing. It's often translated as "including X and Y" or "whether it's X or Y."
健康のためには、肉でも、野菜でも、何でもバランスよく食べなくてはいけませんよ。
For the sake of your health, you must eat a good balance of everything, including meats and vegetables.
リーさんは犬でも猫でも、すべての動物が好きだよ。
Lee-san loves all animals, including cats and dogs.
このゲームは子供でも大人でも楽しむことが出来ます。
This game is enjoyable whether you're a kid or adult.
私の犬は、食べ物でもゴミでも何でもを食べるのが好きだな。
My dog likes to eat anything, including food and trash.
健康のためには、肉でも、野菜でも、何でもバランスよく食べなくてはいけませんよ。
For the sake of your health, you must eat a good balance of everything, including meats and vegetables.
リーさんは犬でも猫でも、すべての動物が好きだよ。
Lee-san loves all animals, including cats and dogs.
このゲームは子供でも大人でも楽しむことが出来ます。
This game is enjoyable whether you're a kid or adult.
私の犬は、食べ物でもゴミでも何でもを食べるのが好きだな。
My dog likes to eat anything, including food and trash.
Monday, March 19, 2018
まで (も)
According to Tobira, the word まで (も) is used to present something which is considered to be beyond one's imagination or expectation. It generally translates as "even", in the sense of, "There will be dogs, cats, and even horses at the party!"
この教科書では、漢字や文法だけでなく、日本の現代の文化から歴史までも学べる。
With this text book, I can study not only kanji and grammar, but also modern Japanese culture and even history.
パーティーでは、リーさんが犬や猫や馬までもいるんだと言ってた。
At the party, Lee-san said there'll be dogs, cats, and even horses! (why did I do this)
最近では、歩くだけでなく、サッカーをするロボットまでもある。
Lately there are robots that can not only walk, but also even play soccer.
姉はどこでもに旅行すると言って、オーストラリアから南極までも。
My older sister said she'll travel anywhere, from Australia to even Antarctica.
この教科書では、漢字や文法だけでなく、日本の現代の文化から歴史までも学べる。
With this text book, I can study not only kanji and grammar, but also modern Japanese culture and even history.
パーティーでは、リーさんが犬や猫や馬までもいるんだと言ってた。
At the party, Lee-san said there'll be dogs, cats, and even horses! (why did I do this)
最近では、歩くだけでなく、サッカーをするロボットまでもある。
Lately there are robots that can not only walk, but also even play soccer.
姉はどこでもに旅行すると言って、オーストラリアから南極までも。
My older sister said she'll travel anywhere, from Australia to even Antarctica.
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