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.
Monday, March 26, 2018
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.
言うまでもない
The phrase 言うまでもない can be used within a sentence to express the meaning "needless to say", "it goes without saying", or "not to mention..." It's commonly used in written language.
図書館では静かにしなくてはいけないことは、言うまでもない。
It goes without saying that you must be quiet at the library.
お誕生日にリーさんにプレゼントをあげなきゃことは、言うまでもない。
It goes without saying that you have to give Lee-san a present for his birthday.
世界で人気がある日本のポップカルチャーには、アニメは言うまでもなく、ファッションや音楽などもある。
As for Japanese pop culture that's popular throughout the world, anime goes without saying, and there's also things like fashion and music.
今日の数学の試験では、言うまでもなく、掛け算の問題があるんだよ。
Needless to say, today's math test will have multiplication problems on it.
図書館では静かにしなくてはいけないことは、言うまでもない。
It goes without saying that you must be quiet at the library.
お誕生日にリーさんにプレゼントをあげなきゃことは、言うまでもない。
It goes without saying that you have to give Lee-san a present for his birthday.
世界で人気がある日本のポップカルチャーには、アニメは言うまでもなく、ファッションや音楽などもある。
As for Japanese pop culture that's popular throughout the world, anime goes without saying, and there's also things like fashion and music.
今日の数学の試験では、言うまでもなく、掛け算の問題があるんだよ。
Needless to say, today's math test will have multiplication problems on it.
Sunday, March 18, 2018
まるで～ように
The word まるで can be added to a normal ように construct to introduce a simile that describes another noun. まるで makes the description more emphatic, in the manner of "She looks JUST LIKE a horse."
まだ春なのに、今日はまるで夏のように暑い。
Even though it's still spring, today it's as hot as if it were summer.
アヤトは葉がまるでヴァンパイアのように鋭い。
Ayato's teeth are sharp just like a vampire's. (spoiler alert, he is one)
このロボットは、まるで人間のように歩くことが出来ます。
This robot can walk just like a person.
リーさんのケーキはまるで母のケーキのように美味しいな。
Lee-san's cake is delicious just like mom's cake.
まだ春なのに、今日はまるで夏のように暑い。
Even though it's still spring, today it's as hot as if it were summer.
アヤトは葉がまるでヴァンパイアのように鋭い。
Ayato's teeth are sharp just like a vampire's. (spoiler alert, he is one)
このロボットは、まるで人間のように歩くことが出来ます。
This robot can walk just like a person.
リーさんのケーキはまるで母のケーキのように美味しいな。
Lee-san's cake is delicious just like mom's cake.
に合わせて
The construct X + に合わせて can be used to express something like "making something suitable for X" or "according to X." A good example in English would be something like "according to the patient's needs..." If it's used before a noun to modify it, it changes to に合った.
このリストの中から、予算に合った商品を選ぶことが出来ます。
From this list, you can select goods according to your budget.
リーさんは上手さに合わせてで料理しなくちゃって言ってた。
Lee-san said you must do cooking according to your skill level.
子供には、子供の年齢に合った本を方がいいですよ。
For kids, you should give them books that match their age.
男の人の病状に合わせて、酒がたくさん飲ませられなくちゃんだよ。
According to the patient's condition, he must be made to drink a lot of alcohol.
このリストの中から、予算に合った商品を選ぶことが出来ます。
From this list, you can select goods according to your budget.
リーさんは上手さに合わせてで料理しなくちゃって言ってた。
Lee-san said you must do cooking according to your skill level.
子供には、子供の年齢に合った本を方がいいですよ。
For kids, you should give them books that match their age.
男の人の病状に合わせて、酒がたくさん飲ませられなくちゃんだよ。
According to the patient's condition, he must be made to drink a lot of alcohol.
Saturday, March 17, 2018
という
The wonderfully vague という can be used at the end of a sentence to indicate that what was previously said was not firsthand information.
ロンドンの大英博物館には、約７００万点のコレクションがあるという。
At the British Museum in London, it's said that there's a roughly 7 million piece collection.
私達通ってる学校のことは国で一番頭がいい学生がいるという。
It's said that the school we attend has the most intelligent students in the country.
世界で最も観光客が多い国はフランスで、一年に７００万人以上の人が訪れるという。
They say that the country that has the most tourists in the world is France, and that over 7 million people visit there a year.
リーさんが東京で一番強い男の人だという。
They say that Lee-san is the strongest man in Tokyo.
ロンドンの大英博物館には、約７００万点のコレクションがあるという。
At the British Museum in London, it's said that there's a roughly 7 million piece collection.
私達通ってる学校のことは国で一番頭がいい学生がいるという。
It's said that the school we attend has the most intelligent students in the country.
世界で最も観光客が多い国はフランスで、一年に７００万人以上の人が訪れるという。
They say that the country that has the most tourists in the world is France, and that over 7 million people visit there a year.
リーさんが東京で一番強い男の人だという。
They say that Lee-san is the strongest man in Tokyo.
ほど
In Japanese, ほど is a tough, painful word. It can be used after words or entire sentences to describe the extent or degree of something. Since it's very versatile, translation is often context heavy, but can range from things like "to the extent that", "not as X", "to that degree", and "almost as X."
私達は話も出来ないほど疲れていた。
We were so tired that we couldn't even do the story.
このカレーは涙が出るほどからい。
This curry is so spicy that I have tears coming out.
私はチョコレートが死ぬほど好きだ。毎日でも食べられる。
I love chocolate to death. I can eat it every day.
日本語は、話せることは話せるが、通訳が出来るほどではない。
As for Japanese speaking, I can do it, but not to the extent that I can do interpretation.
私は日本語が上手に話せることは話せるが、スミスさんほどではない。
I can speak Japanese well, but not as well as Smith-san.
これほどすばらしい絵を見たことがない。
I've never seen a painting as magnificent as this one.
私達は話も出来ないほど疲れていた。
We were so tired that we couldn't even do the story.
このカレーは涙が出るほどからい。
This curry is so spicy that I have tears coming out.
私はチョコレートが死ぬほど好きだ。毎日でも食べられる。
I love chocolate to death. I can eat it every day.
日本語は、話せることは話せるが、通訳が出来るほどではない。
As for Japanese speaking, I can do it, but not to the extent that I can do interpretation.
私は日本語が上手に話せることは話せるが、スミスさんほどではない。
I can speak Japanese well, but not as well as Smith-san.
これほどすばらしい絵を見たことがない。
I've never seen a painting as magnificent as this one.
Tuesday, March 13, 2018
思うように～ない
The phrase 思うように on its own means "as you wish" or "the way you want." Combine that with a negative verb and you can express the concept of something not going as somebody wished.
予定が思うように進まないので、とても困っている。
Our plans won't proceed as I wanted, so I'm really troubled.
人の前では自分の考えが思うように言えない。
I'm unable to speak my thoughts in front of people like I wish.
リーさんは思うようにビーチに行けなかったから、部屋で読んでるよ。
Since Lee-san couldn't go to the beach like he wanted, he's in his room reading.
子供の時、ピアノを一生懸命に練習したけど、思うように引けなかったので、やめてしまった。
As a child, I practiced piano as hard as I could, but since I could never play as I wanted to, I sadly quit.
予定が思うように進まないので、とても困っている。
Our plans won't proceed as I wanted, so I'm really troubled.
人の前では自分の考えが思うように言えない。
I'm unable to speak my thoughts in front of people like I wish.
リーさんは思うようにビーチに行けなかったから、部屋で読んでるよ。
Since Lee-san couldn't go to the beach like he wanted, he's in his room reading.
子供の時、ピアノを一生懸命に練習したけど、思うように引けなかったので、やめてしまった。
As a child, I practiced piano as hard as I could, but since I could never play as I wanted to, I sadly quit.
言っても
言っても can be used to express something like "even though X says that..." or "although Y said that..." Tobira states that it's generally used to clarify something that's just been said to avoid a misunderstanding, though to me its use seems far more broad than that.
漢字が読めると言っても、まだ３００ぐらいしか読めませんから、新聞の内容は全然分かりません。
Even though it says I can read kanji, since I still can only read about 300 of them, I don't understand the contents of a newspaper at all.
リーさんはいいって言っても、寂しそうだよね。
Even though Lee-san says he's fine, he seems lonely.
この文法は難しいと言っても、全然分からないわけではない。
Although they say this grammar is difficult, that doesn't mean that I don't understand it at all.
アリスはリーさんが嫌いだと言っても、本当に好きだと思うんだよ。
Although Alice says she hates Lee-san, I think she really likes him.
漢字が読めると言っても、まだ３００ぐらいしか読めませんから、新聞の内容は全然分かりません。
Even though it says I can read kanji, since I still can only read about 300 of them, I don't understand the contents of a newspaper at all.
リーさんはいいって言っても、寂しそうだよね。
Even though Lee-san says he's fine, he seems lonely.
この文法は難しいと言っても、全然分からないわけではない。
Although they say this grammar is difficult, that doesn't mean that I don't understand it at all.
アリスはリーさんが嫌いだと言っても、本当に好きだと思うんだよ。
Although Alice says she hates Lee-san, I think she really likes him.
Monday, March 12, 2018
せっかく
The word せっかく can be used with nouns or full sentences to express a situation where the speaker put a great deal of effort into something, and therefore wants to utilize whatever resulted from it because of that effort (or express regret because they can't utilize it). It can also describe a scenario that is rare and that should therefore be cherished or otherwise used.
せっかくケーキを焼いたのに、誰も食べてくれなかったから、がっかりした。
Even though I went through the trouble of making a cake, no one ate it, so I was disappointed.
せっかく日本に行ったのに、ホームステイが出来なくて、残念だった。
Even though I got to go to Japan, I couldn't do a homestay. It was too bad.
せっかくの野球の試合が雨で中止になってしまった。
The long-awaited baseball match was called off because of rain.
Ａ：今夜、私の家に食事にいらっしゃいませんか。
Ｂ：ありがとうございます。でも、せっかくですが、今日は仕事が忙しくて・・・。
A: Tonight, would you like to come to my house for dinner?
B: Thank you very much. I know you went to a lot of trouble for it, but today is busy for me...
せっかくケーキを焼いたのに、誰も食べてくれなかったから、がっかりした。
Even though I went through the trouble of making a cake, no one ate it, so I was disappointed.
せっかく日本に行ったのに、ホームステイが出来なくて、残念だった。
Even though I got to go to Japan, I couldn't do a homestay. It was too bad.
せっかくの野球の試合が雨で中止になってしまった。
The long-awaited baseball match was called off because of rain.
Ａ：今夜、私の家に食事にいらっしゃいませんか。
Ｂ：ありがとうございます。でも、せっかくですが、今日は仕事が忙しくて・・・。
A: Tonight, would you like to come to my house for dinner?
B: Thank you very much. I know you went to a lot of trouble for it, but today is busy for me...
～にもかかわらず
The sentence structure X + ～にもかかわらず + Y can be used to express "Y, in spite of X." It's used to state that Y is the case, even though it is generally not expected because of X. It can be translated as "in spite of", "despite", "although", or "even though."
彼女は外国人にもかかわらず、日本人より日本の文化を愛している。
Although she's a foreigner, she loves Japanese culture more than Japanese people.
アヤトはビーチが嫌いにもかかわらず、うれしくならせるのために私と行ってたんだ。
Even though Ayato hates the beach, he went with me to make me happy.
オオカミ少年の言ったことは本当だったにもかかわらず、その前に何回もうそをついていたので、誰も少年の言うことを信じなかった。
Even though what the wolf boy said was truthful, nobody believed him because he had told lies a number of times before.
リーさんは優しい人にもかかわらず、今日は会いたくないんだよ。
Although though Lee-san's a nice person, I don't want to see him today.
彼女は外国人にもかかわらず、日本人より日本の文化を愛している。
Although she's a foreigner, she loves Japanese culture more than Japanese people.
アヤトはビーチが嫌いにもかかわらず、うれしくならせるのために私と行ってたんだ。
Even though Ayato hates the beach, he went with me to make me happy.
オオカミ少年の言ったことは本当だったにもかかわらず、その前に何回もうそをついていたので、誰も少年の言うことを信じなかった。
Even though what the wolf boy said was truthful, nobody believed him because he had told lies a number of times before.
リーさんは優しい人にもかかわらず、今日は会いたくないんだよ。
Although though Lee-san's a nice person, I don't want to see him today.
Sunday, March 11, 2018
限り
The word 限り is used to refer to something that is the case, or something that holds true as long as the condition X holds true. It's also used to indicate the extent to which someone can do something. Translations include "as long as", "as far as", "while", "until", "unless", and "as much as."
私の知っている限り、外国人が使いやすい日本語の辞書はないんですよ。
As far as I know, there is no Japanese dictionary that is easy for foreigners to use.
コックである限り、美味しい料理を料理しなくてはいけないんだよ。
As long as you are a chef, you must make delicious food.
プレイスメンとテストに合格しない限り、上のレベルのクラスには入れません。
Until I pass the placement test, I can't get into the higher level class.
明日までにこのレポートを翻訳するのは結構大変ですが、できる限り頑張ってみます。
Translating this report by tomorrow will be pretty difficult, but I'll do my best, as much as I can.
私の知っている限り、外国人が使いやすい日本語の辞書はないんですよ。
As far as I know, there is no Japanese dictionary that is easy for foreigners to use.
コックである限り、美味しい料理を料理しなくてはいけないんだよ。
As long as you are a chef, you must make delicious food.
プレイスメンとテストに合格しない限り、上のレベルのクラスには入れません。
Until I pass the placement test, I can't get into the higher level class.
明日までにこのレポートを翻訳するのは結構大変ですが、できる限り頑張ってみます。
Translating this report by tomorrow will be pretty difficult, but I'll do my best, as much as I can.
に対して
The phrase に対して can be used with either nouns or full sentences to contrast two actions, situations, etc. It generally translates as "whereas", "on the other hand", or "in contrast."
日本語は文法が難しいのに対して、中国語は発音が難しい。
In Japanese the grammar is difficult, whereas in Chinese it's the pronunciation that's difficult.
学校は数学はつまらないのに対して、文学は面白いよね。
In school, math is boring, while on the other hand, literature is interesting.
Ｂ型の性格は楽天的なのに対して、Ａ型はまじめな性格だと言われている。
They say that type B personalities are optimistic, whereas Type A personalities are serious.
リーさんの料理は美味しいのに対して、アリスの料理はまずいんだな。
Lee-san's cooking is good, whereas Alice's cooking is bad.
日本語は文法が難しいのに対して、中国語は発音が難しい。
In Japanese the grammar is difficult, whereas in Chinese it's the pronunciation that's difficult.
学校は数学はつまらないのに対して、文学は面白いよね。
In school, math is boring, while on the other hand, literature is interesting.
Ｂ型の性格は楽天的なのに対して、Ａ型はまじめな性格だと言われている。
They say that type B personalities are optimistic, whereas Type A personalities are serious.
リーさんの料理は美味しいのに対して、アリスの料理はまずいんだな。
Lee-san's cooking is good, whereas Alice's cooking is bad.
Thursday, March 8, 2018
という理由で
The phrase という理由で, which can literally read as "for the reason of/that", is generally used in writing to present the reason for a state, event, or action. It simply means "because."
登録した学生が少ないという理由で、その授業はキャンセルされてしまいました。
Because not many students registered, that class has unfortunately been cancelled.
リーさんは雨が嫌いだったという理由で、うちに行って部屋で泣いたんだ。
Because Lee-san hated the rain, he went home and cried in his room.
このゲーム機は、安くて使いやすいという理由で、よく売れているそうだ。
I hear that because this game console is inexpensive and easy to use, it's selling well.
アルバイトで忙しいという理由で、学校を休む学生がいます。
There are students who skip school because they are busy at work.
登録した学生が少ないという理由で、その授業はキャンセルされてしまいました。
Because not many students registered, that class has unfortunately been cancelled.
リーさんは雨が嫌いだったという理由で、うちに行って部屋で泣いたんだ。
Because Lee-san hated the rain, he went home and cried in his room.
このゲーム機は、安くて使いやすいという理由で、よく売れているそうだ。
I hear that because this game console is inexpensive and easy to use, it's selling well.
アルバイトで忙しいという理由で、学校を休む学生がいます。
There are students who skip school because they are busy at work.
決して～ない
The word 決して, when used with the negative form of a verb, adjective, etc. expresses strong negation of an idea or situation. It often translates as "never", "by no means", or "not in the least."
今日の試験は決してやさしくありませんでしたが、みんなよくできていました。
Today's test was not easy by any means, but everyone was able to do well on it.
カナトは決して嫌いじゃないんだけど、時々ちょっと怒らせる傾向があるんだな。
I don't hate Kanato in the least, but sometimes he has a tendency to make me a little angry.
彼は決して悪い人間ではない。ちょっとわがままなだけだ。
He's definitely not a bad person. He's just a little selfish.
リーさんはあの銀行を決してかすめなかったんだ、バカ。
You idiot, Lee-san never robbed that bank.
今日の試験は決してやさしくありませんでしたが、みんなよくできていました。
Today's test was not easy by any means, but everyone was able to do well on it.
カナトは決して嫌いじゃないんだけど、時々ちょっと怒らせる傾向があるんだな。
I don't hate Kanato in the least, but sometimes he has a tendency to make me a little angry.
彼は決して悪い人間ではない。ちょっとわがままなだけだ。
He's definitely not a bad person. He's just a little selfish.
リーさんはあの銀行を決してかすめなかったんだ、バカ。
You idiot, Lee-san never robbed that bank.
以外
The word 以外 can be used after nouns to express "except for [noun]" or "besides [noun]." Pretty simple, huh?
このクラスは、田中さん以外は、誰も外国に行ったことがないそうだ。
I hear that no one in this class besides Tanaka-san has been to a foreign country.
マイク以外、この部屋に人の中で皆さんが好き。
I like everyone in this room except for Mike.
週末は、勉強以外に、テニスをしたり映画を見たりします。
Over the weekend, other than studying, I'm going to do things like play tennis and watch a movie.
子持ち甘藍以外は、何でも食べられるんだよ。
I can eat anything except for brussels sprouts.
このクラスは、田中さん以外は、誰も外国に行ったことがないそうだ。
I hear that no one in this class besides Tanaka-san has been to a foreign country.
マイク以外、この部屋に人の中で皆さんが好き。
I like everyone in this room except for Mike.
週末は、勉強以外に、テニスをしたり映画を見たりします。
Over the weekend, other than studying, I'm going to do things like play tennis and watch a movie.
子持ち甘藍以外は、何でも食べられるんだよ。
I can eat anything except for brussels sprouts.
Wednesday, March 7, 2018
そこで
そこで can be used at the beginning of a sentence before expressing an action that will be taken because of the aforementioned situation. It's similar to それで, except そこで can only be used in situations where the person has control (so not for things like weather). It's generally translated as "because of that", "therefore", or "so."
学生達は、先生とだけでなく、一般の日本人とも日本語で話したいはずです。そこで、日本人の留学生のグループとパーティーをすることにしました。
Students are supposed to want to speak in Japanese with not only teachers, but also with Japanese people in general. Because of that, I've decided to have a party with a group of Japanese exchange students.
私は新入生だから、人々に会いたいんだ。そこで、寮でパーティーをすることにした。
I'm a new student, so I want to meet people. So I decided to throw a party in my dorm.
将来、小学校の先生になりたいと思っています。そこで、ボランティアで子供達を教えてみることにしました。
In the future, I think I want to become an elementary school teacher. So, I've decided to try teaching kids by volunteering.
男の子は弟を打ってしまった。そこで、お父さんは部屋に行かせたんだ。
The boy hit his little brother. Because of that, the father made him go to his room.
学生達は、先生とだけでなく、一般の日本人とも日本語で話したいはずです。そこで、日本人の留学生のグループとパーティーをすることにしました。
Students are supposed to want to speak in Japanese with not only teachers, but also with Japanese people in general. Because of that, I've decided to have a party with a group of Japanese exchange students.
私は新入生だから、人々に会いたいんだ。そこで、寮でパーティーをすることにした。
I'm a new student, so I want to meet people. So I decided to throw a party in my dorm.
将来、小学校の先生になりたいと思っています。そこで、ボランティアで子供達を教えてみることにしました。
In the future, I think I want to become an elementary school teacher. So, I've decided to try teaching kids by volunteering.
男の子は弟を打ってしまった。そこで、お父さんは部屋に行かせたんだ。
The boy hit his little brother. Because of that, the father made him go to his room.
つまり
The word つまり can be used at the beginning of a sentence or phrase when you want to rephrase or restate something. It's generally translated as "in other words", "namely", "that means", or "in the end."
受験戦争というのは、つまり、いい学校に入るために、戦争のように勉強で競争することです。
In other words, the exam wars consist of a war-like competitive studying in order to get into a good school.
リーさんは今度の週末のパーティーに行きたくないって。つまり、私のことが嫌いんだ。
Lee-san said he doesn't want to come to the party this weekend. So really, he hates me.
登校拒否というのは、つまり、いじめなどの理由で学校に行かなくなるという意味です。
Namely, truancy means that you stop going to school because of things like bullying.
来月、日本で父の妹に訪ねに行くつもりです。つまり、彼女はおばさんですね。
Next month we're going to see my dad's little sister in Japan. So really she's my aunt.
受験戦争というのは、つまり、いい学校に入るために、戦争のように勉強で競争することです。
In other words, the exam wars consist of a war-like competitive studying in order to get into a good school.
リーさんは今度の週末のパーティーに行きたくないって。つまり、私のことが嫌いんだ。
Lee-san said he doesn't want to come to the party this weekend. So really, he hates me.
登校拒否というのは、つまり、いじめなどの理由で学校に行かなくなるという意味です。
Namely, truancy means that you stop going to school because of things like bullying.
来月、日本で父の妹に訪ねに行くつもりです。つまり、彼女はおばさんですね。
Next month we're going to see my dad's little sister in Japan. So really she's my aunt.
Tuesday, March 6, 2018
なかなか～ない
Using the word なかなか + the negative form of a verb means that something occurred "not easily", "not readily", or just "difficult to..." It's generally used for negative situations where something you desire doesn't happen easily, or when something that's supposed to happen doesn't happen as it should.
一年生の時は漢字がなかなか覚えられませんでしたが、今は、あまり時間をかけずに覚えられます。
When I was a first year student I couldn't easily memorize kanji, but now I can memorize them without taking very much time.
もう１０年もピアノを練習しているが、なかなか上手に引けない。
I've already been practicing piano for ten years, but I still can't play it very well.
今年は十二月になってもなかなか寒くならない。地球温暖化のせいだろうか。
Even when we reach December this year it still won't get very cold. I wonder if it's due to global warming.
コンサートがなかなか始まらないので、客が怒り出した。
The concert was slow to start, so the audience broke out into a rage.
一年生の時は漢字がなかなか覚えられませんでしたが、今は、あまり時間をかけずに覚えられます。
When I was a first year student I couldn't easily memorize kanji, but now I can memorize them without taking very much time.
もう１０年もピアノを練習しているが、なかなか上手に引けない。
I've already been practicing piano for ten years, but I still can't play it very well.
今年は十二月になってもなかなか寒くならない。地球温暖化のせいだろうか。
Even when we reach December this year it still won't get very cold. I wonder if it's due to global warming.
コンサートがなかなか始まらないので、客が怒り出した。
The concert was slow to start, so the audience broke out into a rage.
あるいは
The word あるいは can be used between nouns, phrases, or sentences to connect alternatives with an "either/or" type meaning. It's typically used in formal speech or written language.
この大学では、日本語、あるいは、英語で卒業論文を書くことになっている。
At this university, it's been decided that I will write my graduation thesis in Japanese or English.
日本に行くなら、いいホテルで、あるいは、ホストファミリで泊まると思うんだ。
If I go to Japan, I think I want to stay at either a nice hotel, or with a host family.
就職しようか、あるいは、大学院に進んで勉強を続けようか、今、迷っている。
Right now I'm torn between getting a full-time job, or moving on to grad school and continuing my studies.
リーさんは大学に行ったら、アメリカの歴史、あるいは、アメリカの文学を勉強すると言ってた。
Lee-san said that when he goes to university, he's going to study either American history or American literature.
この大学では、日本語、あるいは、英語で卒業論文を書くことになっている。
At this university, it's been decided that I will write my graduation thesis in Japanese or English.
日本に行くなら、いいホテルで、あるいは、ホストファミリで泊まると思うんだ。
If I go to Japan, I think I want to stay at either a nice hotel, or with a host family.
就職しようか、あるいは、大学院に進んで勉強を続けようか、今、迷っている。
Right now I'm torn between getting a full-time job, or moving on to grad school and continuing my studies.
リーさんは大学に行ったら、アメリカの歴史、あるいは、アメリカの文学を勉強すると言ってた。
Lee-san said that when he goes to university, he's going to study either American history or American literature.
Monday, March 5, 2018
一方
The word 一方 can be used to present two contrastive situations or concurrent states, either being used at the beginning of a sentence, or mid-sentence to connect the two ideas. It often translates as something like "on the other hand", "while", or "at the same time."
日本の義務教育は小学校が６年、中学校が３年である。一方、私の国では、小学校だけが義務教育で、中学校からは行っても行かなくてもいい。しかし、ほとんどの子供達は中学校に進学する。
As for Japanese compulsory education, elementary school is six years, and middle school is three years. On the other hand, in my own country, only elementary school is compulsory, and it's okay whether you go to middle school or not. However, almost all children go on to middle school.
カタカナは外国から日本に入ってきた言葉や、動物、花の名前など、特別な名詞に使われます。一方、ひらがなは、助詞や文末、送り仮名などに使われることが多いです。
Katakana is used for words that came to Japan from other countries, for animals, for things like the names of flowers, and for special nouns. On the other hand, hiragana is used a lot for things like particles, sentence endings, and okurigana.
子供達の学力が低下する一方で、受験戦争はますます激しくなっている。
Children's academic ability is declining, and yet at the same time we encourage "examination wars" more and more.
勉強が忙しい一方で、学費のためにアルバイトもしなければならないから、毎日本当に大変だ。
Studying is time-consuming, and yet because of tuition we have to get a part time job, so every day is really tough.
日本の義務教育は小学校が６年、中学校が３年である。一方、私の国では、小学校だけが義務教育で、中学校からは行っても行かなくてもいい。しかし、ほとんどの子供達は中学校に進学する。
As for Japanese compulsory education, elementary school is six years, and middle school is three years. On the other hand, in my own country, only elementary school is compulsory, and it's okay whether you go to middle school or not. However, almost all children go on to middle school.
カタカナは外国から日本に入ってきた言葉や、動物、花の名前など、特別な名詞に使われます。一方、ひらがなは、助詞や文末、送り仮名などに使われることが多いです。
Katakana is used for words that came to Japan from other countries, for animals, for things like the names of flowers, and for special nouns. On the other hand, hiragana is used a lot for things like particles, sentence endings, and okurigana.
子供達の学力が低下する一方で、受験戦争はますます激しくなっている。
Children's academic ability is declining, and yet at the same time we encourage "examination wars" more and more.
勉強が忙しい一方で、学費のためにアルバイトもしなければならないから、毎日本当に大変だ。
Studying is time-consuming, and yet because of tuition we have to get a part time job, so every day is really tough.
といった
The expression といった + X is used to present examples of X, where the examples are listed before the といった portion. It's similar to the phrases などの Noun and のような Noun, though といった can be preceded by nouns, nouns phrases, and entire sentences. It can generally be read as "like" or "such as."
日本語が上手に話せるようになるには、丁寧な話し方やくだけた話し方、敬語といったスピーチレベルが違う話し方の練習もしなければならない。
To reach a point where you can speak Japanese well, you must also practice the differing types of speech, such as polite speech, casual speech, and keigo.
リーさんの家では犬、猫、ねずみ、蛙といった動物がたくさん飼っていますね。
At his house Lee-san has lots of animals like dogs, cats, mice, and frogs.
どの国の言葉でも、丁寧になればなるほど文が長くなるといった傾向がある。
No matter the language, there are tendencies such as the more polite you get, the longer a sentence becomes.
娘さんは野菜や果物や肉といった食べ物が食べられるんだよ。
His daughter can eat foods like vegetables, fruits, and meat.
日本語が上手に話せるようになるには、丁寧な話し方やくだけた話し方、敬語といったスピーチレベルが違う話し方の練習もしなければならない。
To reach a point where you can speak Japanese well, you must also practice the differing types of speech, such as polite speech, casual speech, and keigo.
リーさんの家では犬、猫、ねずみ、蛙といった動物がたくさん飼っていますね。
At his house Lee-san has lots of animals like dogs, cats, mice, and frogs.
どの国の言葉でも、丁寧になればなるほど文が長くなるといった傾向がある。
No matter the language, there are tendencies such as the more polite you get, the longer a sentence becomes.
娘さんは野菜や果物や肉といった食べ物が食べられるんだよ。
His daughter can eat foods like vegetables, fruits, and meat.
Thursday, March 1, 2018
前者/後者
The words 前者 and 後者 mean the Japanese equivalent of the "former" and "latter", respectively. They're used to separately refer to two things that were previously mentioned in a sentence.
日本のお城と言えば、姫路城や大阪城が有名だ。前者は兵庫県にあって、後者は大阪府にある。
Speaking of Japanese castles, Himeji Castle and Osaka Castle are famous. The former is in Hyogo Prefecture, and the latter is in Osaka Prefecture.
今日はクラスで、アメリカでフロリダ州とカリフォルニア州について学んだ。前者はとても保守的で、後者は保守的じゃないんだよ。
Today in class, we learned about the states of Florida and California in the US. The former is very conservative, and the latter is not.
手塚治虫が描いたマンガでは「ジャングル大帝」や「ブラックジャック」が人気がある。前者は白いライオンの話で、後者はどんな病気でも治すことが出来る医者の話だ。
The manga "Great Emperor of the Jungle" and "Black Jack" by Osamu Tezuka are popular. The former is a story about a white lion, and the latter is about a doctor who can cure any kind of sickness no matter what it is.
日本の代表的な伝統芸能に能と狂言がある。前者は悲劇で後者は喜劇だ。
Noh plays and kyogen are representative of Japanese traditional arts. The former is a tragedy, and the latter is a comedy.
日本のお城と言えば、姫路城や大阪城が有名だ。前者は兵庫県にあって、後者は大阪府にある。
Speaking of Japanese castles, Himeji Castle and Osaka Castle are famous. The former is in Hyogo Prefecture, and the latter is in Osaka Prefecture.
今日はクラスで、アメリカでフロリダ州とカリフォルニア州について学んだ。前者はとても保守的で、後者は保守的じゃないんだよ。
Today in class, we learned about the states of Florida and California in the US. The former is very conservative, and the latter is not.
手塚治虫が描いたマンガでは「ジャングル大帝」や「ブラックジャック」が人気がある。前者は白いライオンの話で、後者はどんな病気でも治すことが出来る医者の話だ。
The manga "Great Emperor of the Jungle" and "Black Jack" by Osamu Tezuka are popular. The former is a story about a white lion, and the latter is about a doctor who can cure any kind of sickness no matter what it is.
日本の代表的な伝統芸能に能と狂言がある。前者は悲劇で後者は喜劇だ。
Noh plays and kyogen are representative of Japanese traditional arts. The former is a tragedy, and the latter is a comedy.
ても～なくても
The structure X ても X なくても can be used to express the Japanese equivalent of "whether or not." It can be used with nouns, verbs, and adjectives.
書いてあることが分かっても分からなくても、とにかく最後まで読んでみましょう。
Whether you understand what's written or not, let's at least try to read until the end.
あの女の人は優しくても優しくなくても、誘ってほしいな。
Whether she's kind or not, I still want to ask her out.
このアパートは家賃が安いから、静かでも静かじゃなくても、借りようと思っています。
Since this apartment's rent is cheap, I've decided I'm going to rent it whether it's quiet or not.
ドアが開いても開かなくても、その家に行くんだよ。
Whether the door opens or not, I'm going into that house.
書いてあることが分かっても分からなくても、とにかく最後まで読んでみましょう。
Whether you understand what's written or not, let's at least try to read until the end.
あの女の人は優しくても優しくなくても、誘ってほしいな。
Whether she's kind or not, I still want to ask her out.
このアパートは家賃が安いから、静かでも静かじゃなくても、借りようと思っています。
Since this apartment's rent is cheap, I've decided I'm going to rent it whether it's quiet or not.
ドアが開いても開かなくても、その家に行くんだよ。
Whether the door opens or not, I'm going into that house.
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