Japanese Conditional Form ～たら: Rules, Examples, Common Mistakes and Exercises

Japanese Conditional Form ～たら

Have you ever wondered how to say “If this happens, then that will happen” in Japanese? Or asked yourself, “How do I express conditions like ‘if I study, I’ll pass’ in Japanese?” The answer often lies in the Japanese Conditional Form ～たら.

This grammar point is one of the most common ways to talk about conditions, results, and possibilities in daily conversations. You will hear it in anime, dramas, and real-life conversations across Japan. From simple phrases like “もし雨が降ったら、行きません” (If it rains, I won’t go) to more advanced expressions, ～たら is everywhere.

The Japanese Conditional Form ～たら is simple to learn at first glance, but it comes with many layers. Beginners often use it to form basic “if… then…” sentences. However, as you progress, you’ll discover it can also express surprises, hypothetical situations, or even polite requests. Understanding it deeply is essential if you want to sound natural and fluent.

According to resources like the Japanese Grammar Dictionary and university-level grammar guides, ～たら belongs to a group of conditional expressions in Japanese. Unlike と, ば, or なら, the ～たら form is flexible and works in many different contexts, making it especially useful for learners.

In this guide, we’ll break it down step by step. You’ll learn what it means, how to use it, when to use it, common mistakes to avoid, and how to master it with real-life examples and exercises.

By the end of this blog, you will:

• Understand the meaning and function of ～たら
• Be able to use it confidently in both spoken and written Japanese
• Avoid common mistakes that confuse many learners
• Practice with exercises to check your understanding

Let’s dive into the world of the Japanese Conditional Form ～たら and see why it’s such an essential building block in Japanese communication.

Japanese Conditional Form ～たら: Explanation and Overview

What is the Japanese Conditional Form ～たら?

The Japanese Conditional Form ～たら is one of the main ways to say “if” or “when” in Japanese. It connects two actions or events: one is the condition, and the other is the result.

• Structure: [Verb in past tense] + ら
• Meaning: If/when something happens, then something else will happen.

Example:

• 勉強したら、合格します。
  (If I study, I will pass.)

This form works for verbs, adjectives, and nouns. Unlike some other conditional forms, ～たら can be used in many contexts, from casual talk to formal writing.

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Why is ～たら Important in Japanese?

Conditional sentences help us talk about possibilities, rules, and everyday choices. Without them, conversations feel incomplete. The ～たら form is especially useful because:

• It is flexible: works in future, past, and hypothetical contexts.
• It is beginner-friendly: easier than other conditional forms like ば or なら.
• It is common in real life: you’ll hear it in daily speech, TV shows, and business settings.

Example:

• 雨が降ったら、家にいます。
  (If it rains, I’ll stay home.)

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How Does ～たら Differ from Other Conditionals?

Japanese has multiple ways to say “if”. Beginners often confuse them, but each has its own nuance.

• ～たら → Flexible, often means “if/when.”
• ～ば → Slightly formal, often used in written rules or logical conditions.
• と → Expresses a natural consequence (e.g., “If you push this button, it turns on”).
• なら → Used when the condition is given or assumed.

Example comparisons:

• 行ったら、楽しいです。 (If I go, it will be fun.)
• 行けば、楽しいです。 (If one goes, it will be fun. – more general tone)
• 行くと、楽しいです。 (When I go, it’s fun. – natural consequence)
• 行くなら、楽しいです。 (If you are going, it will be fun. – assumes the person is going)

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When Learners First Encounter ～たら

Most students see the Japanese Conditional Form ～たら around the lower-intermediate stage of study. It often appears in JLPT N4 level grammar, where learners are expected to use conditionals in daily conversation.

For example, textbooks like Genki II and Minna no Nihongo II introduce ～たら in lessons about expressing choices and possibilities.

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Quick Recap of Key Points

• ～たら connects a condition with its result.
• It is simple to form but rich in usage.
• It is more flexible than other conditional forms.
• Essential for speaking naturally in Japanese.

Japanese Conditional Form ～たら: 10 Common Real-Life Examples

The best way to master the Japanese Conditional Form ～たら is to see it in action. Below are ten practical examples you might hear in daily life, with Japanese script, romaji, and English translation.

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1. Talking About Weather

もし雨が降ったら、家にいます。
Moshi ame ga futtara, ie ni imasu.
If it rains, I will stay home.

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2. Making a Plan with Friends

時間があったら、一緒に映画を見ましょう。
Jikan ga attara, issho ni eiga o mimashou.
If we have time, let’s watch a movie together.

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3. Expressing Gratitude

手伝ってくれたら、助かります。
Tetsudatte kuretara, tasukarimasu.
If you help me, it will be a big help.

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4. Talking About Food Choices

この料理を食べたら、元気になりますよ。
Kono ryouri o tabetara, genki ni narimasu yo.
If you eat this dish, you’ll feel better.

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5. Asking for Permission

暇だったら、遊びに来てください。
Hima dattara, asobi ni kite kudasai.
If you’re free, please come over.

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6. Everyday Errands

スーパーに行ったら、牛乳を買ってください。
Suupaa ni ittara, gyuunyuu o katte kudasai.
If you go to the supermarket, please buy milk.

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7. Polite Offers

わからなかったら、先生に聞いてください。
Wakaranakattara, sensei ni kiite kudasai.
If you don’t understand, please ask the teacher.

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8. Hypothetical Situation

お金があったら、世界を旅行したいです。
Okane ga attara, sekai o ryokou shitai desu.
If I had money, I would like to travel the world.

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9. Giving Warnings

危なかったら、すぐ逃げてください。
Abunakattara, sugu nigete kudasai.
If it’s dangerous, run away immediately.

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10. Polite Conversation

疲れたら、少し休みましょう。
Tsukaretara, sukoshi yasumimashou.
If you’re tired, let’s take a short break.

When to Use the Japanese Conditional Form ～たら: All the Key Situations

The Japanese Conditional Form ～たら is very flexible. It covers many everyday situations where English speakers would say “if” or “when.” Below are the main situations where learners use ～たら naturally.

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1. Talking About Future Conditions

Use ～たら when something might happen in the future, and you want to describe the result.

Example:
明日雨が降ったら、試合は中止です。
Ashita ame ga futtara, shiai wa chuushi desu.
If it rains tomorrow, the match will be canceled.

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2. Giving Instructions or Requests

When a condition is met, you can politely ask someone to do something.

Example:
駅に着いたら、電話してください。
Eki ni tsuitara, denwa shite kudasai.
When you arrive at the station, please call me.

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3. Expressing Hypothetical or Unreal Situations

You can talk about “imaginary” conditions, such as if I were rich…

Example:
お金がたくさんあったら、新しい家を買います。
Okane ga takusan attara, atarashii ie o kaimasu.
If I had a lot of money, I would buy a new house.

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4. Talking About Surprises After a Condition

～たら can also express that something unexpected happened right after the condition.

Example:
ドアを開けたら、猫がいました。
Doa o aketara, neko ga imashita.
When I opened the door, there was a cat.

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5. Offering Advice or Suggestions

Use ～たら to gently give advice in a friendly way.

Example:
疲れているなら、少し寝たらどうですか。
Tsukarete iru nara, sukoshi netara dou desu ka.
If you’re tired, how about taking a short nap?

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6. Talking About Natural Results

Sometimes ～たら is used for things that naturally follow a condition.

Example:
春になったら、花が咲きます。
Haru ni nattara, hana ga sakimasu.
When spring comes, flowers bloom.

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7. Describing One-Time Events

Use ～たら when one event happens only once after another.

Example:
仕事が終わったら、映画を見に行きましょう。
Shigoto ga owattara, eiga o mi ni ikimashou.
When work finishes, let’s go see a movie.

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8. Talking About Possibilities and Doubts

It’s also used when expressing uncertainty or choices.

Example:
迷ったら、地図を見てください。
Mayottara, chizu o mite kudasai.
If you get lost, look at the map.

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9. Expressing Polite Offers

When speaking kindly, ～たら is used to soften suggestions.

Example:
時間があったら、お茶を飲みに来ませんか。
Jikan ga attara, ocha o nomi ni kimasen ka.
If you have time, would you like to come for tea?

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10. Talking About Consequences

Finally, it’s often used to explain a result directly linked to a condition.

Example:
運動したら、気分が良くなります。
Undou shitara, kibun ga yoku narimasu.
If you exercise, you will feel better.

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Quick Recap

You can use the Japanese Conditional Form ～たら to:

• Talk about the future
• Give instructions or advice
• Describe surprises or one-time events
• Express hypothetical situations
• Make polite offers and show natural results

This makes ～たら one of the most versatile conditional forms in Japanese.

Japanese Conditional Form ～たら Conjugation Rules

Conjugating the Japanese Conditional Form ～たら is simpler than it looks. The basic rule is:

👉 Take the past tense (ta-form) of a word, and add ら.

So the formula looks like this:

[Word in ta-form] + ら = Conditional (if/when)

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5.1 Conjugation with Verbs

Group 1 (U-verbs)

For U-verbs, change the verb to its past tense (ta-form), then add ら.

Verb (Dictionary Form)	Past Tense (Ta-form)	Conditional ～たら	Example Sentence
行く (iku, to go)	行った (itta)	行ったら (ittara)	東京に行ったら、お土産を買います。 Tokyo ni ittara, omiyage o kaimasu. If I go to Tokyo, I will buy souvenirs.
飲む (nomu, to drink)	飲んだ (nonda)	飲んだら (nondara)	コーヒーを飲んだら、元気になります。 Kōhī o nondara, genki ni narimasu. If I drink coffee, I feel better.
会う (au, to meet)	会った (atta)	会ったら (attara)	友達に会ったら、話します。 Tomodachi ni attara, hanashimasu. If I meet my friend, I will talk.

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Group 2 (Ru-verbs)

For Ru-verbs, just remove る (ru), add た, then ら.

Verb (Dictionary Form)	Past Tense (Ta-form)	Conditional ～たら	Example Sentence
食べる (taberu, to eat)	食べた (tabeta)	食べたら (tabetara)	ケーキを食べたら、幸せです。 Kēki o tabetara, shiawase desu. If I eat cake, I am happy.
見る (miru, to see)	見た (mita)	見たら (mitara)	映画を見たら、泣きました。 Eiga o mitara, nakimashita. When I saw the movie, I cried.
起きる (okiru, to wake up)	起きた (okita)	起きたら (okitara)	起きたら、顔を洗います。 Okita ra, kao o araimasu. When I wake up, I wash my face.

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Irregular Verbs

There are only two irregular verbs to remember.

Verb	Past Tense (Ta-form)	Conditional ～たら	Example Sentence
する (suru, to do)	した (shita)	したら (shitara)	宿題をしたら、遊びます。 Shukudai o shitara, asobimasu. If I do homework, I will play.
来る (kuru, to come)	来た (kita)	来たら (kitara)	友達が来たら、パーティーを始めます。 Tomodachi ga kitara, pātī o hajimemasu. When my friend comes, we’ll start the party.

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5.2 Conjugation with Adjectives

I-Adjectives

Turn the adjective into its past tense form, then add ら.

Adjective	Past Tense	Conditional ～たら	Example
高い (takai, expensive)	高かった (takakatta)	高かったら (takakattara)	値段が高かったら、買いません。 Nedan ga takakattara, kaimasen. If the price is high, I won’t buy it.
寒い (samui, cold)	寒かった (samukatta)	寒かったら (samukattara)	寒かったら、コートを着てください。 Samukattara, kōto o kite kudasai. If it’s cold, please wear a coat.

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Na-Adjectives

Add だった (datta) to the adjective, then ら.

Adjective	Past Tense	Conditional ～たら	Example
静か (shizuka, quiet)	静かだった (shizuka datta)	静かだったら (shizuka dattara)	図書館が静かだったら、勉強できます。 Toshokan ga shizuka dattara, benkyou dekimasu. If the library is quiet, I can study.
便利 (benri, convenient)	便利だった (benri datta)	便利だったら (benri dattara)	駅に近くて便利だったら、その部屋を借ります。 Eki ni chikakute benri dattara, sono heya o karimasu. If it’s convenient and near the station, I’ll rent the room.

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5.3 Conjugation with Nouns

For nouns, add だった (datta) + ら.

Noun	Past Tense	Conditional ～たら	Example
学生 (gakusei, student)	学生だった (gakusei datta)	学生だったら (gakusei dattara)	学生だったら、学割が使えます。 Gakusei dattara, gakuwari ga tsukaemasu. If you are a student, you can use the student discount.
日本人 (nihonjin, Japanese person)	日本人だった (nihonjin datta)	日本人だったら (nihonjin dattara)	日本人だったら、この文化を知っています。 Nihonjin dattara, kono bunka o shitteimasu. If you are Japanese, you know this culture.

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Quick Recap of Conjugation Rules

• Verbs: Ta-form + ら → 行ったら (ittara)
• I-Adjectives: Past tense + ら → 寒かったら (samukattara)
• Na-Adjectives: だったら → 静かだったら (shizuka dattara)
• Nouns: だったら → 学生だったら (gakusei dattara)

This simple structure makes ～たら one of the easiest conditionals to use for all word types.

Japanese Conditional Form ～たら Grammar Rules You Need to Know

The Japanese Conditional Form ～たら looks easy, but it has several important grammar rules. These rules help you avoid misunderstandings and sound natural in conversation.

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6.1 Rule 1: Always Use the Ta-Form Before Adding ～たら

The base of ～たら is the ta-form (past tense) of the word.

• 行く → 行ったら (iku → ittara)
• 食べる → 食べたら (taberu → tabetara)

Example:
宿題をしたら、テレビを見てもいいです。
Shukudai o shitara, terebi o mite mo ii desu.
If you do your homework, you can watch TV.

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6.2 Rule 2: ～たら Can Mean Both “If” and “When”

Unlike English, where “if” and “when” are separate, Japanese ～たら covers both meanings depending on context.

Example 1 (If):
雨が降ったら、出かけません。
Ame ga futtara, dekakemasen.
If it rains, I won’t go out.

Example 2 (When):
家に帰ったら、すぐにシャワーを浴びます。
Ie ni kaettara, sugu ni shawā o abimasu.
When I get home, I take a shower immediately.

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6.3 Rule 3: The First Clause Happens Before the Second

The condition (the ～たら part) always happens first, then the result follows.
You cannot reverse the order.

Example:
ドアを開けたら、風が入ってきました。
Doa o aketara, kaze ga haitte kimashita.
When I opened the door, the wind came in.

(✔ The door opened before the wind entered.)

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6.4 Rule 4: Use ～たら for One-Time or Specific Events

If the situation happens repeatedly or is a natural truth, ～と is usually better.
Use ～たら for one-time actions.

Example:
図書館に行ったら、友達に会いました。
Toshokan ni ittara, tomodachi ni aimashita.
When I went to the library, I met my friend.

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6.5 Rule 5: You Can Use ～たら in Hypothetical or Unreal Situations

It’s perfect for “what if” situations.

Example:
お金があったら、世界一周したいです。
Okane ga attara, sekai isshū shitai desu.
If I had money, I would travel around the world.

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6.6 Rule 6: Negative Forms Work Too

You can also make the first clause negative.

Example:
雨が降らなかったら、ピクニックに行きます。
Ame ga furanakattara, pikunikku ni ikimasu.
If it doesn’t rain, we will go on a picnic.

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6.7 Rule 7: Avoid Using ～たら with Commands in Some Contexts

It sounds unnatural to use ～たら with certain strong commands. Instead, use it with softer requests.

Example (Natural):
困ったら、先生に聞いてください。
Komattara, sensei ni kiite kudasai.
If you’re in trouble, please ask the teacher.

Example (Unnatural):
× 雨が降ったら、走れ！
X Ame ga futtara, hashire!
✘ If it rains, run! (This sounds unnatural and harsh.)

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6.8 Rule 8: Politeness Matters

In polite speech, just keep the second part of the sentence in polite form.
The ～たら part itself does not change politeness level.

Example:
駅に着いたら、お知らせします。
Eki ni tsuitara, oshirase shimasu.
When I arrive at the station, I’ll let you know.

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Quick Recap of Key Rules

• Always use ta-form + ら.
• Can mean if or when.
• First action happens before the second.
• Best for one-time or specific events.
• Works with negatives and hypotheticals.
• Use carefully with commands.
• Politeness is shown in the second clause.

Important Tips for Using the Japanese Conditional Form ～たら Correctly

Learning the Japanese Conditional Form ～たら is exciting, but it can also be tricky. Many learners use it too freely or confuse it with other conditionals like ～と, ～ば, or ～なら. Below are some essential tips to help you avoid mistakes and sound natural.

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7.1 Tip 1: Think of ～たら as a “Trigger Point”

The first action is the trigger, and the second action happens because of it.

Example:
仕事が終わったら、買い物に行きます。
Shigoto ga owattara, kaimono ni ikimasu.
When work finishes, I’ll go shopping.

👉 The trigger is “finishing work.” The shopping happens only after that.

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7.2 Tip 2: Use ～たら for Specific Events, Not Universal Truths

If something happens every time without fail, ～と is more natural.
Use ～たら for unique or one-time conditions.

Example (Correct):
駅に着いたら、連絡してください。
Eki ni tsuitara, renraku shite kudasai.
When you arrive at the station, please contact me.

Example (Better with ～と):
春になると、桜が咲きます。
Haru ni naru to, sakura ga sakimasu.
When spring comes, cherry blossoms bloom.

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7.3 Tip 3: Be Careful with Hypothetical Sentences

When you talk about something unreal or imagined, ～たら often appears with words like “if I had” or “if I were.”

Example:
私が鳥だったら、空を飛びたいです。
Watashi ga tori dattara, sora o tobitai desu.
If I were a bird, I’d like to fly in the sky.

👉 Notice how ～たら helps create imaginative situations.

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7.4 Tip 4: Don’t Mix Politeness Levels

Keep your sentence balanced. If you start politely, finish politely.

Example (Polite):
問題があったら、教えてください。
Mondai ga attara, oshiete kudasai.
If there is a problem, please tell me.

Example (Casual):
雨が降ったら、行かないよ。
Ame ga futtara, ikanai yo.
If it rains, I won’t go.

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7.5 Tip 5: Be Aware of Cultural Nuance

In Japanese, conditional sentences can sound softer or politer than in English. Using ～たら can sometimes be a way of being indirect and kind.

Example:
時間があったら、遊びに来ませんか。
Jikan ga attara, asobi ni kimasen ka.
If you have time, would you like to come over?

👉 It’s not just grammar, but also culture—showing respect and gentleness.

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7.6 Tip 6: Practice with Real-Life Contexts

Try practicing ～たら with daily situations:

• If I wake up early…
• If I get hungry…
• If my phone battery dies…

Example:
電池がなくなったら、充電してください。
Denchi ga nakunattara, juuden shite kudasai.
If the battery runs out, please charge it.

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7.7 Tip 7: Notice It in Japanese Media

Anime, dramas, and songs often use ～たら. Pay attention to how characters use it in natural contexts. This builds intuition faster than textbooks alone.

Example from drama-style language:
会えたら、嬉しいです。
Aetara, ureshii desu.
If I can meet you, I’ll be happy.

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Quick Recap of Tips

• Treat ～たら as a trigger point.
• Use it for specific, not universal events.
• Great for hypothetical and polite situations.
• Match politeness in both halves of the sentence.
• Pay attention to cultural nuance—it often softens requests.
• Practice with daily life and media for fluency.

Common Mistakes with the Japanese Conditional Form ～たら and How to Fix Them

Even though the Japanese Conditional Form ～たら is simple to learn, learners often fall into the same traps. Let’s look at the most common mistakes and how to fix them.

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Mistake 1: Using Dictionary Form Instead of Ta-form

❌ 行くら、楽しいです。
Iku ra, tanoshii desu.
✘ Incorrect – “iku” must first be put into ta-form.

✔ Correct:
行ったら、楽しいです。
Ittara, tanoshii desu.
If I go, it will be fun.

👉 Always remember: use ta-form + ら, never dictionary form.

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Mistake 2: Using ～たら for Repeated or Natural Events

Learners sometimes use ～たら for universal truths, but ～と is more natural.

❌ 春になったら、桜が咲きます。
Haru ni nattara, sakura ga sakimasu.
✘ Sounds odd, because it’s a natural fact.

✔ Correct:
春になると、桜が咲きます。
Haru ni naru to, sakura ga sakimasu.
When spring comes, cherry blossoms bloom.

👉 Use ～と for regular, automatic events.

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Mistake 3: Mixing Politeness Levels in One Sentence

❌ 駅に着いたら、連絡してくださる？
Eki ni tsuitara, renraku shite kudasaru?
✘ Wrong because “kudasaru” is polite, but the question form is casual.

✔ Correct (Polite):
駅に着いたら、連絡してください。
Eki ni tsuitara, renraku shite kudasai.
When you arrive at the station, please contact me.

✔ Correct (Casual):
駅に着いたら、連絡してね。
Eki ni tsuitara, renraku shite ne.
When you arrive at the station, contact me, okay?

👉 Keep both halves of the sentence in the same politeness level.

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Mistake 4: Using ～たら with Strong Commands

While grammatically possible, it can sound too harsh or unnatural.

❌ 危なかったら、走れ！
Abunakattara, hashire!
✘ If it’s dangerous, run! (Feels abrupt and rude.)

✔ Correct (Softer):
危なかったら、逃げてください。
Abunakattara, nigete kudasai.
If it’s dangerous, please escape.

👉 Use softer requests with ～たら to sound natural and polite.

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Mistake 5: Forgetting the Order of Events

Remember: the condition (first part) happens before the result.

❌ 猫がいたら、ドアを開けました。
Neko ga itara, doa o akemashita.
✘ Wrong because the cat did not appear before the door opened.

✔ Correct:
ドアを開けたら、猫がいました。
Doa o aketara, neko ga imashita.
When I opened the door, there was a cat.

👉 Always place the first event in the ～たら clause.

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Mistake 6: Overusing ～たら Instead of ～ば or ～なら

Learners sometimes use ～たら everywhere, but other conditionals may be better.

Example:
もっと勉強したら、合格できます。
Motto benkyou shitara, goukaku dekimasu.
If you study more, you can pass.

✔ This is fine, but in some contexts, ～ば sounds more natural:
もっと勉強すれば、合格できます。
Motto benkyou sureba, goukaku dekimasu.
If you study more, you can pass.

👉 Learn the differences to choose the best conditional.

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Quick Recap of Mistakes to Avoid

• ❌ Don’t use dictionary form; ✔ always use ta-form.
• ❌ Don’t use ～たら for natural truths; ✔ use ～と.
• ❌ Don’t mix politeness levels.
• ❌ Don’t pair ～たら with harsh commands.
• ❌ Don’t mess up event order.
• ❌ Don’t overuse ～たら when ～ば or ～なら fits better.

Japanese Conditional Form ～たら Example Sentences for Better Understanding

Here are 20 sentences that show how the Japanese Conditional Form ～たら works in real contexts.

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Daily Life Examples

1. 朝ごはんを食べたら、学校に行きます。
   Asagohan o tabetara, gakkou ni ikimasu.
   If I eat breakfast, I will go to school.
2. 宿題が終わったら、遊びに行きましょう。
   Shukudai ga owattara, asobi ni ikimashou.
   When homework is finished, let’s go play.
3. 雨が降ったら、傘を持って行ってください。
   Ame ga futtara, kasa o motte itte kudasai.
   If it rains, please take an umbrella.
4. 疲れたら、少し休んでください。
   Tsukaretara, sukoshi yasunde kudasai.
   If you are tired, please take a short rest.

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Travel and Transportation Examples

5. 駅に着いたら、電話をしてください。
   Eki ni tsuitara, denwa o shite kudasai.
   When you arrive at the station, please call me.
6. 東京に行ったら、スカイツリーを見たいです。
   Tokyo ni ittara, sukai tsurii o mitai desu.
   If I go to Tokyo, I want to see the Skytree.
7. 空港に行ったら、パスポートを見せてください。
   Kuukou ni ittara, pasupooto o misete kudasai.
   When you go to the airport, show your passport.
8. 地図がなかったら、道に迷います。
   Chizu ga nakattara, michi ni mayoi masu.
   If I don’t have a map, I will get lost.

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Work and School Examples

9. 会議が終わったら、報告してください。
   Kaigi ga owattara, houkoku shite kudasai.
   When the meeting finishes, please give me a report.
10. 先生に聞いたら、答えがわかりました。
    Sensei ni kiitara, kotae ga wakarimashita.
    When I asked the teacher, I understood the answer.
11. 問題があったら、マネージャーに相談してください。
    Mondai ga attara, maneejaa ni soudan shite kudasai.
    If there is a problem, consult the manager.
12. 試験に合格したら、旅行に行きます。
    Shiken ni goukaku shitara, ryokou ni ikimasu.
    If I pass the exam, I will go on a trip.

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Social and Conversation Examples

13. 時間があったら、お茶を飲みに行きませんか。
    Jikan ga attara, ocha o nomi ni ikimasen ka.
    If you have time, would you like to go for tea?
14. 暇だったら、手伝ってください。
    Hima dattara, tetsudatte kudasai.
    If you are free, please help me.
15. 友達に会ったら、よろしく伝えてください。
    Tomodachi ni attara, yoroshiku tsutaete kudasai.
    If you meet my friend, please say hello for me.
16. パーティーに来たら、楽しめますよ。
    Paatii ni kitara, tanoshimemasu yo.
    If you come to the party, you’ll enjoy it.

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Imagination and Hypothetical Examples

17. 宝くじが当たったら、世界旅行をします。
    Takarakuji ga atattara, sekai ryokou o shimasu.
    If I win the lottery, I will travel the world.
18. 私が社長だったら、もっと休みをあげます。
    Watashi ga shachou dattara, motto yasumi o agemasu.
    If I were the president, I’d give more holidays.
19. 鳥だったら、空を自由に飛びたいです。
    Tori dattara, sora o jiyuu ni tobitai desu.
    If I were a bird, I would want to fly freely in the sky.
20. タイムマシンがあったら、昔に戻りたいです。
    Taimu mashin ga attara, mukashi ni modoritai desu.
    If I had a time machine, I would like to go back to the past.

Japanese Conditional Form ～たら Fill-in-the-Blank Exercise: Test Your Knowledge

Fill in the blanks by conjugating the word in brackets into the correct ～たら form.

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Daily Life

1. 朝ごはんを ______ 、出かけます。 （食べる）
   Asagohan o ______ , dekakemasu.
   If I eat breakfast, I will go out.
2. 宿題を ______ 、テレビを見てもいいです。 （する）
   Shukudai o ______ , terebi o mite mo ii desu.
   If I do homework, I can watch TV.
3. 雨が ______ 、ピクニックは中止です。 （降る）
   Ame ga ______ , pikunikku wa chuushi desu.
   If it rains, the picnic will be canceled.
4. ______ 、休んでください。 （疲れる）
   ______ , yasunde kudasai.
   If you get tired, please rest.

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Travel and Errands

5. 駅に ______ 、連絡してください。 （着く）
   Eki ni ______ , renraku shite kudasai.
   When you arrive at the station, please contact me.
6. 東京に ______ 、スカイツリーを見たいです。 （行く）
   Tokyo ni ______ , Sukai Tsurii o mitai desu.
   If I go to Tokyo, I want to see the Skytree.
7. スーパーに ______ 、牛乳を買ってください。 （行く）
   Suupaa ni ______ , gyuunyuu o katte kudasai.
   If you go to the supermarket, please buy milk.
8. 地図が ______ 、道に迷います。 （ない）
   Chizu ga ______ , michi ni mayoimasu.
   If I don’t have a map, I will get lost.

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Work and School

9. 会議が ______ 、報告してください。 （終わる）
   Kaigi ga ______ , houkoku shite kudasai.
   When the meeting ends, please give a report.
10. 先生に ______ 、答えがわかりました。 （聞く）
    Sensei ni ______ , kotae ga wakarimashita.
    When I asked the teacher, I understood the answer.
11. 問題が ______ 、知らせてください。 （ある）
    Mondai ga ______ , shirasete kudasai.
    If there is a problem, please let me know.
12. 試験に ______ 、うれしいです。 （合格する）
    Shiken ni ______ , ureshii desu.
    If I pass the exam, I will be happy.

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Social Conversation

13. 時間が ______ 、一緒にお茶を飲みましょう。 （ある）
    Jikan ga ______ , issho ni ocha o nomimashou.
    If we have time, let’s drink tea together.
14. ______ 、遊びに来てください。 （暇）
    ______ , asobi ni kite kudasai.
    If you are free, please come over.
15. 友達に ______ 、よろしく伝えてください。 （会う）
    Tomodachi ni ______ , yoroshiku tsutaete kudasai.
    If you meet my friend, please say hello for me.
16. パーティーに ______ 、楽しめます。 （来る）
    Paatii ni ______ , tanoshimemasu.
    If you come to the party, you will enjoy it.

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Hypothetical and Imagination

17. 宝くじが ______ 、新しい家を買います。 （当たる）
    Takarakuji ga ______ , atarashii ie o kaimasu.
    If I win the lottery, I will buy a new house.
18. 私が社長 ______ 、給料を上げます。 （社長）
    Watashi ga shachou ______ , kyuuryou o agemasu.
    If I were the president, I would raise salaries.
19. ______ 、自由に空を飛びたいです。 （鳥）
    ______ , jiyuu ni sora o tobitai desu.
    If I were a bird, I’d like to fly freely in the sky.
20. タイムマシンが ______ 、昔に戻りたいです。 （ある）
    Taimu mashin ga ______ , mukashi ni modoritai desu.
    If I had a time machine, I’d like to return to the past.

Check Your Answers for the Japanese Conditional Form ～たら Exercise

Here are the correct answers to the fill-in-the-blank questions from Section 10.

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Daily Life

1. 朝ごはんを 食べたら 、出かけます。
   Asagohan o tabetara, dekakemasu.
   If I eat breakfast, I will go out.
2. 宿題を したら 、テレビを見てもいいです。
   Shukudai o shitara, terebi o mite mo ii desu.
   If I do homework, I can watch TV.
3. 雨が 降ったら 、ピクニックは中止です。
   Ame ga futtara, pikunikku wa chuushi desu.
   If it rains, the picnic will be canceled.
4. 疲れたら 、休んでください。
   Tsukaretara, yasunde kudasai.
   If you get tired, please rest.

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Travel and Errands

5. 駅に 着いたら 、連絡してください。
   Eki ni tsuitara, renraku shite kudasai.
   When you arrive at the station, please contact me.
6. 東京に 行ったら 、スカイツリーを見たいです。
   Tokyo ni ittara, Sukai Tsurii o mitai desu.
   If I go to Tokyo, I want to see the Skytree.
7. スーパーに 行ったら 、牛乳を買ってください。
   Suupaa ni ittara, gyuunyuu o katte kudasai.
   If you go to the supermarket, please buy milk.
8. 地図が なかったら 、道に迷います。
   Chizu ga nakattara, michi ni mayoimasu.
   If I don’t have a map, I will get lost.

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Work and School

9. 会議が 終わったら 、報告してください。
   Kaigi ga owattara, houkoku shite kudasai.
   When the meeting ends, please give a report.
10. 先生に 聞いたら 、答えがわかりました。
    Sensei ni kiitara, kotae ga wakarimashita.
    When I asked the teacher, I understood the answer.
11. 問題が あったら 、知らせてください。
    Mondai ga attara, shirasete kudasai.
    If there is a problem, please let me know.
12. 試験に 合格したら 、うれしいです。
    Shiken ni goukaku shitara, ureshii desu.
    If I pass the exam, I will be happy.

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Social Conversation

13. 時間が あったら 、一緒にお茶を飲みましょう。
    Jikan ga attara, issho ni ocha o nomimashou.
    If we have time, let’s drink tea together.
14. 暇だったら 、遊びに来てください。
    Hima dattara, asobi ni kite kudasai.
    If you are free, please come over.
15. 友達に 会ったら 、よろしく伝えてください。
    Tomodachi ni attara, yoroshiku tsutaete kudasai.
    If you meet my friend, please say hello for me.
16. パーティーに 来たら 、楽しめます。
    Paatii ni kitara, tanoshimemasu.
    If you come to the party, you will enjoy it.

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Hypothetical and Imagination

17. 宝くじが 当たったら 、新しい家を買います。
    Takarakuji ga atattara, atarashii ie o kaimasu.
    If I win the lottery, I will buy a new house.
18. 私が社長 だったら 、給料を上げます。
    Watashi ga shachou dattara, kyuuryou o agemasu.
    If I were the president, I would raise salaries.
19. 鳥だったら 、自由に空を飛びたいです。
    Tori dattara, jiyuu ni sora o tobitai desu.
    If I were a bird, I’d like to fly freely in the sky.
20. タイムマシンが あったら 、昔に戻りたいです。
    Taimu mashin ga attara, mukashi ni modoritai desu.
    If I had a time machine, I’d like to return to the past.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About the Japanese Conditional Form ～たら

1. What is the difference between ～たら meaning “if” and ～たら meaning “when/after”?

Many learners wonder: Is ～たら “if” or “when” or “after”?

• ～たら can mean both “if” and “when/after”, depending on context. Tofugu+1
• If the condition is hypothetical or uncertain, it leans “if.”
• If the condition is expected or almost sure, it leans “when/after.”

Examples (if):
もし雨が降ったら、家にいます。
Moshi ame ga futtara, ie ni imasu.
If it rains, I will stay home.

Examples (when/after):
仕事が終わったら、映画を見ましょう。
Shigoto ga owattara, eiga o mimashou.
When work finishes, let’s watch a movie.

Also, without context, some sentences default toward “when/after” in the mind of a native. Japanese Language Stack Exchange

So pay attention to context and presence of words like “もし (moshi)” to shift toward hypothetical meaning.

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2. Can ～たら be used for past conditional (“if had done … then …”)?

Yes — ～たら can express a past conditional (counterfactual) when both clauses are in the past or with a “would have” nuance.

Example:
もし早く起きたら、バスに間に合った。
Moshi hayaku okitara, basu ni mania tta.
If I had woken earlier, I would have made the bus.

However, many learners find that using もし + ～たら + 〜た／だった + でしょう／だろう helps express the counterfactual tone more clearly. Japanese Language Stack Exchange

Example with nuance:
もしもっと勉強したら、合格できたでしょう。
Moshi motto benkyou shitara, goukaku dekita deshou.
If I had studied more, I probably would have passed.

Be careful: the second clause also often uses past or presumptive form to match the time frame.

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3. When is ～たら preferred over ～ば, ～なら, and ～と?

Learners often ask: “When should I use ～たら instead of ～ば, ～なら, or ～と?”

• ～と often describes natural or inevitable consequences (something that always happens). guidetojapanese.org
• ～ば tends to be used for logical, general “if” statements and often in writing. ltl-japanese.com
• ～なら is used when the condition is assumed or given in context.
• ～たら is more flexible. It can handle intentions, requests, imaginations, or contexts where ～と or ～ば or ～なら are awkward. Learn-Japanese-Adventure.com+1

Example comparison:
寒ければヒーターをつけてください。
Samukereba hiitaa o tsukete kudasai.
If (it’s cold), please turn on the heater.

寒かったら出かけません。
Samukattara dekakemasen.
If it’s cold, I won’t go out.

When the sentence involves intention, requests, or subjective actions, ～たら is safer to use.

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4. Can I add もし before ～たら? What does that change?

Yes. Adding もし (moshi) before ～たら emphasizes uncertainty, making the meaning more clearly “if” or “in case.”

Example without もし (more neutral):
雨が降ったら、試合は中止です。
Ame ga futtara, shiai wa chuushi desu.
If / When it rains, the game will be canceled.

Example with もし (clearly “if”):
もし雨が降ったら、試合は中止になります。
Moshi ame ga futtara, shiai wa chuushi ni narimasu.
In case it rains, the match will be canceled.

Use もし when you want to avoid ambiguity between “when” and “if.”

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5. Can ～たら be used in negative form?

Yes. You can create a negative conditional by using the negative past form + ら.

Pattern: take the negative form, convert to its past negative (〜なかった), then add ら.

Example:
雨が降らなかったら、ピクニックに行きましょう。
Ame ga furanakattara, pikunikku ni ikimashou.
If it doesn’t rain, let’s go for a picnic.

寒くなかったら、このコートはいりません。
Samuku nakattara, kono kooto wa irimasen.
If it’s not cold, we don’t need this coat.

Be careful: don’t mix standard negative + ら (that’s ungrammatical). Always transform into negative-past first.

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6. Is ～たら always followed by the same subject in both clauses?

Not always, but often the subject is the same or implied. For clarity, make sure the subjects don’t conflict or cause confusion when different.

Same subject example:
勉強したら、いい点が取れる。
Benkyou shitara, ii ten ga toreru.
If I study, I can get good marks.

Different subject example:
もし彼が来たら、彼女が驚くだろう。
Moshi kare ga kitara, kanojo ga odoroku darou.
If he comes, she will be surprised.

When subjects differ, using particles or clarifying context helps avoid confusion.

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7. Can ～たら be used with nouns or adjectives?

Yes! It works not just with verbs, but with i-adjectives, na-adjectives, and nouns by converting them to their past forms first. Tofugu+1

Examples with adjectives:
もし高かったら買います。
Moshi takakattara kaimasu.
If it’s expensive, I’ll buy it.

静かだったら、ここで勉強できます。
Shizuka dattara, koko de benkyou dekimasu.
If it’s quiet, I can study here.

Examples with nouns:
学生だったら、割引があります。
Gakusei dattara, waribiki ga arimasu.
If you are a student, there is a discount.

Case: if the noun is negative, use だったら → じゃなかったら.

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8. Can ～たら express suggestions, invitations, or offers?

Yes. ～たら can soften suggestions, invitations, or offers in a natural, friendly way.

Examples:
時間があったら、一緒にお茶を飲みませんか？
Jikan ga attara, issho ni ocha o nomimasen ka?
If you have time, would you like to join me for tea?

疲れたら、少し休んだらどう？
Tsukaretara, sukoshi yasundara dou?
If you’re tired, how about resting a little?

These uses make speech more casual and empathetic.

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9. What happens if I reverse the order of clauses (result first, then ～たら)?

You usually can’t reverse the order. The ～たら clause must come first, because that describes the condition or trigger.

Incorrect order example:
× 映画を見たら、チケットを買ってください。
(This suggests buying ticket after watching movie—nonsensical order.)

Correct order:
映画を見たかったら、まずチケットを買ってください。
Eiga o mitakattara, mazu chiketto o katte kudasai.
If you want to see the movie, first buy a ticket.

In short: always place the ～たら clause first so the chronology makes sense.

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10. Can ～たら be used with tense shifts (past → future)?

Yes. The clauses can refer to different time frames, but clarity is important.

Example with future condition → future result:
明日早く起きたら、散歩に行きます。
Ashita hayaku okitara, sanpo ni ikimasu.
If I wake early tomorrow, I’ll go for a walk.

Example mixing past condition → future result:
もしあのとき話したら、今は違っていたかもしれない。
Moshi ano toki hanashitara, ima wa chigatte ita kamoshirenai.
If I had spoken at that time, things might be different now.

Be cautious: shifting tenses must still reflect logic—past condition with future or present results must be believable.

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11. What does ～たら do when the second clause contradicts expectation or shows surprise?

One of ～たら’s powers is expressing unexpected results or surprises after a condition.

Example:
ドアを開けたら、誰もいなかった。
Doa o aketara, dare mo inakatta.
When I opened the door, no one was there.

In English we might say, “I opened the door—and surprisingly, no one was there.”

Because ～たら allows that nuance of “right after X happened, Y turned out differently than expected.”

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12. Is ～たら usable in formal writing or only in speech?

Yes, ～たら is perfectly usable in writing, including essays, letters, and articles. It’s not just spoken Japanese.

In formal writing, you might see a slightly more formal variant 〜たら／〜たら (with polite forms), or sometimes 〜ましたら in very formal contexts (though less common). Tofugu

Example in formal tone:
拝見したら、ご意見をお知らせください。
Haiken shitara, goiken o oshirase kudasai.
If you examine (this), please let me know your opinion.

So don’t avoid ～たら simply because it seems casual—use it naturally when appropriate.

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13. How do I decide between ～たら and ～なら when both seem possible?

This is a frequent challenge. The choice depends on nuance and what you want to emphasize.

• Use ～なら when the condition is assumed or context is already given.
• Use ～たら when you treat the condition as an event or trigger, especially if it’s less certain or you want flexibility.

Example:
明日雨なら、家にいます。
Ashita ame nara, ie ni imasu.
If it rains tomorrow (given that), I’ll stay home.

明日雨だったら、家にいます。
Ashita ame dattara, ie ni imasu.
If it rains tomorrow, I’ll stay home.

The difference is subtle, but ～たら sounds more direct about the event of raining, whereas ～なら feels more like assuming the state.

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14. Can ～たら appear with “〜ましたら” in polite speech?

Yes, in polite contexts you might see 〜ましたら (polite past + ら) in some written or formal speech.

Example:
ご確認しましたら、ご連絡ください。
Go kakunin shimashitara, go-renraku kudasai.
If you have confirmed (it), please contact me.

This is more formal than plain 〜たら, but the same logic applies.

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15. What’s the nuance when ～たら is preceded by もしも or もし?

Using もしも (moshimo) or もし (moshi) before ～たら heightens the sense of “in the event that / supposing.”

Examples:
もしも雨が降ったら、傘を持ってきてください。
Moshimo ame ga futtara, kasa o motte kite kudasai.
If it happens to rain, please bring an umbrella.

もし雨が降ったら、気をつけてください。
Moshi ame ga futtara, ki wo tsukete kudasai.
If it rains, please take care.

Use もし / もしも when you want to emphasize the condition or introduce a hypothetical scenario.

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16. Can ～たら pair with “〜ても” or other conditional forms in the same sentence?

Yes. You may see ～たら combined with 〜ても (even if) or other conditional forms to layer meaning.

Example:
時間があったら勉強してもいいです。
Jikan ga attara benkyou shite mo ii desu.
If you have time, it’s okay even if you study.

Or:
もし雨が降ったら、行かなくてもいいです。
Moshi ame ga futtara, ikanakute mo ii desu.
If it rains, (you) don’t have to go.

Combining forms allows you to express nuance like permission, concession, or conditional flexibility.

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17. Can ～たら express causation or result beyond simple “if … then …”?

Yes. ～たら often carries a nuance of cause-effect or natural progression, not just conditional logic.

Example:
日本へ行ったら、日本語が上手になります。
Nihon e ittara, nihongo ga jouzu ni narimasu.
If you go to Japan, your Japanese will improve.

Here “going” causes language improvement.

Another:
薬を飲んだら、元気になった。
Kusuri o nondara, genki ni natta.
When I took medicine, I felt better.

This feels more like cause-and-effect than pure hypothesis.

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18. What if the condition or result is past or ongoing — how do I express that with ～たら?

You can mix past, present, and ongoing states as long as logic is preserved.

Past condition → past result:
もし頼んだら返事が来た。
Moshi tanondara henji ga kita.
If I asked, I got a reply.

Past condition → ongoing result:
もし話したら、今も覚えています。
Moshi hanashitara, ima mo oboete imasu.
If I talked then, I still remember now.

Ongoing condition → future result:
今若かったら、もっと冒険する。
Ima wakakattara, motto bouken suru.
If I were young now, I’d take more adventures.

So don’t shy from mixing tenses—just keep sense and clarity.

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19. Are there pitfalls or traps with ～たら I should watch for?

Yes, here are common pitfalls:

• Reversing clause order (we discussed above)
• Mixing subjects confusingly
• Using dictionary or wrong forms instead of ta-form
• Overusing ～たら even where ～と or ～ば fit better
• Forgetting negative past when making negative conditionals
• Neglecting clarity when mixing tenses or temporal frames

Always double-check:

1. Did you convert to past/ta-form?
2. Does clause order make sense?
3. Are subjects clear?
4. Is nuance correct (if vs when)?

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20. Can ～たら be used when the second clause is volitional or invitation?

Yes, ～たら is often used to connect a condition to a suggestion, invitation, or intention.

Examples:
時間があったら、映画を見に行こう。
Jikan ga attara, eiga o mi ni ikou.
If we have time, let’s go see a movie.

もしよければ、手伝ったらどう？
Moshi yokereba, tetsudattara dou?
If it’s okay, how about I help you?

使い方： ～たら works well when the second clause expresses what you intend or propose to do after the condition.

Key Takeaways: Japanese Conditional Form ～たら Summary and Important Points

• The Japanese Conditional Form ～たら expresses both “if” and “when/after” depending on context.
• It is formed by taking the ta-form (past tense) + ら.
• Works with verbs, i-adjectives, na-adjectives, and nouns.
• Use negative past + ら for negative conditionals (e.g., 降らなかったら furanakattara = if it doesn’t rain).
• Perfect for specific events, one-time situations, and hypotheticals.
• Flexible: can express conditions, surprises, advice, invitations, and consequences.
• Add もし (moshi) for emphasis on uncertainty (if).
• Avoid using ～たら for universal truths; use ～と instead.
• Keep politeness consistent across both clauses.
• Clause order matters: the condition (～たら clause) comes first, result follows.
• Suitable in both casual and polite speech.
• Commonly taught at JLPT N4 level and essential for natural conversation.
• Can be used for hypotheticals (If I were a bird…) and past conditionals (If I had studied more…).
• Often appears in anime, dramas, songs, and daily conversation, making it vital for listening practice.
• Differences:
  • ～と = natural consequences (when spring comes, flowers bloom).
  • ～ば = logical, formal conditional.
  • ～なら = assumed/given condition.
  • ～たら = flexible, natural, widely used.
• Works well in suggestions and invitations (If you have time, shall we…?).
• Useful across formal writing, casual talk, and business situations.
• To avoid mistakes: remember ta-form, avoid dictionary form, and check context (if vs when).
• Mastering ～たら will make your Japanese more fluent, natural, and culturally appropriate.

Conclusion: Japanese Conditional Form ～たら – Master the Key to Natural Japanese

The Japanese Conditional Form ～たら is one of the most powerful grammar tools in the language. With it, you can express conditions, future possibilities, surprises, advice, and even imaginative “what if” situations. Unlike other conditional forms such as ～と, ～ば, or ～なら, the ～たら form is flexible and works in both casual and polite conversations.

From everyday sentences like:
雨が降ったら、傘を持ってください。
Ame ga futtara, kasa o motte kudasai.
If it rains, please bring an umbrella.

…to more imaginative ones like:
もし鳥だったら、空を自由に飛びたいです。
Moshi tori dattara, sora o jiyuu ni tobitai desu.
If I were a bird, I’d like to fly freely in the sky.

— mastering ～たら gives you the power to speak with confidence and natural flow.

Whether you are preparing for JLPT, improving conversational fluency, or enjoying Japanese media, learning how to use ～たら correctly is a milestone in your journey.

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🌸 Key Reminder:

• Always start with the ta-form + ら.
• Use ～たら for one-time events, specific conditions, or hypotheticals.
• Add もし for clarity when you mean if.
• Practice daily to build confidence.

Keep practicing, and soon the Japanese Conditional Form ～たら will become second nature in your conversations! 🌏✍️

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Using 〜なら for hypothetical situations in Japanese

Using 〜と for Natural Consequence in Japanese

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