My Language Classes

Mastering the Japanese Te-Form: A Comprehensive Guide

Mastering the Japanese たい Form: A Comprehensive Guide

Mastering the Expressions of Ability in Japanese

Understanding Japanese Verb Groups: A Beginner’s Guide

〜そうだ (Hearsay): Expressing Reported Speech in Japanese

〜そうだ (Appearance): Expressing ‘Looks Like’ in Japanese

〜そうだ (Hearsay) vs 〜そうだ (Appearance): Understanding the Difference

March 16, 2025

Using 〜てよかった in Japanese | My Language Classes

Mastering 〜てよかった: Expressing Relief and Satisfaction in Japanese Grammar

For Japanese learners, mastering the art of expressing emotions like relief or gratitude is essential for effective communication. One indispensable grammar structure for this is 〜てよかった (~te yokatta), a phrase that conveys satisfaction or relief over past actions. Whether you’re celebrating a wise decision or sighing relief after a near-miss, this guide will help you wield 〜てよかった with confidence and precision.

In this comprehensive blog post, you’ll discover:

The grammatical structure and formation of 〜てよかった
Key situations to use this phrase naturally
Advanced nuances and comparisons to related grammar patterns
10 example sentences with romaji and translations
Practice exercises to test your knowledge
Cultural insights for authentic usage

Understanding 〜てよかった: The Grammar of Relief

What Does 〜てよかった Mean?

The phrase 〜てよかった combines the て-form of a verb with よかった (the past tense of よい, meaning “good”). It translates to “I’m glad that…” or “It was good that…”, expressing relief or happiness about a completed action.

Example:

勉強してよかった。
Benkyō shite yokatta.
I’m glad I studied.

Structure and Formation: Positive and Negative Forms

1. Positive Form: Verb (て-form) + よかった

To create this structure:

Convert the verb to its て-form.
Add よかった.

Verb Type	Example Verb	て-form	〜てよかった
Group 1 (う-verbs)	行く (iku, “to go”)	行って (itte)	行ってよかった
Group 2 (る-verbs)	食べる (taberu, “to eat”)	食べて (tabete)	食べてよかった
Group 3 (Irregular)	する (suru, “to do”)	して (shite)	してよかった

Example:

彼に会えてよかった。
Kare ni aete yokatta.
I’m glad I met him.

2. Negative Form: 〜ないでよかった

To express relief about not doing something, use:
Verb (ない-form) + でよかった

Example:

雨が降らないでよかった。
Ame ga furanai de yokatta.
I’m glad it didn’t rain.

Advanced Nuances and Related Structures

1. Using 〜てよかった with Adjectives and Nouns

Extend the structure to adjectives/nouns by using で instead of て:

Adjective: 元気でよかった。
Genki de yokatta.
I’m glad you’re healthy.
Noun: 学生でよかった。
Gakusei de yokatta.
I’m glad I’m a student.

2. Combining with 〜のか for Questions

Add のか to express doubt or reflection:

勉強してよかったのか？
Benkyō shite yokatta no ka?
Was it good that I studied?

3. Comparison with 〜ばよかった (Expressing Regret)

While 〜てよかった expresses relief, 〜ばよかった conveys regret for actions not taken:

もっと勉強すればよかった。
Motto benkyō sureba yokatta.
I should have studied more.

4. Formality Levels

Adjust politeness by adding です or casual particles like よ:

Formal: 来てよかったです。
Kite yokatta desu.
Casual: 来てよかったよ！
Kite yokatta yo!

When to Use 〜てよかった: Situations and Contexts

1. Personal Achievements

Express satisfaction over efforts that paid off:

がんばってよかった！
Ganbatte yokatta!
I’m glad I tried my best!

2. Avoiding Negative Outcomes

Highlight relief after dodging a problem:

あの車を買わないでよかった。
Ano kuruma o kawanai de yokatta.
I’m glad I didn’t buy that car.

3. Gratitude Toward Others

Acknowledge someone’s help politely:

手伝ってくれてよかったです。
Tetsudatte kurete yokatta desu.
I’m glad you helped me.

Emotional Tone and Emphasis

Amplify Relief with Adverbs

Use adverbs like 本当に (hontō ni, “really”) or すごく (sugoku, “extremely”):

本当に来てよかった！
Hontō ni kite yokatta!
I’m really glad I came!

Expressing Relief for Others

Third-Person Usage

Apply 〜てよかった to others’ actions using 〜てくれて:

ゆうこさんが来てくれてよかった。
Yūko-san ga kite kurete yokatta.
I’m glad Yuko came.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Mistake 1: Incorrect て-Form Conjugation

Using the wrong て-form (e.g., 行く → 行きて) instead of 行って.

Incorrect: 勉強しきてよかった。
Correct: 勉強してよかった。

Mistake 2: Using 〜てよかった for Future Actions

This structure only applies to past actions. For future relief, use 〜たらいい:

明日晴れたらいいね。
Ashita hare tara ii ne.
I hope it’s sunny tomorrow.

Real-World Exceptions: When to Avoid 〜てよかった

1. Overly Formal Writing

In formal reports or speeches, opt for neutral phrases like 〜て良かったと考えています (~te yokatta to kangaete imasu, “I consider it good that…”).

2. Cultural Sensitivity

Avoid 〜てよかった if it might imply someone else’s mistake (e.g., あなたが来てよかった could sound accusatory).

Example Sentences: 10 Real-Life Uses of 〜てよかった

医者に行ってよかった。
Isha ni itte yokatta.
I’m glad I went to the doctor.
傘を持ってきてよかった。
Kasa o motte kite yokatta.
I’m glad I brought an umbrella.
友達に相談してよかった。
Tomodachi ni sōdan shite yokatta.
I’m glad I consulted my friend.
早起きしてよかった。
Hayaoki shite yokatta.
I’m glad I woke up early.
予約しておいてよかった。
Yoyaku shite oite yokatta.
I’m glad I made a reservation.
あの映画を見ないでよかった。
Ano eiga o minai de yokatta.
I’m glad I didn’t watch that movie.
電話をかけてよかった。
Denwa o kakete yokatta.
I’m glad I called.
薬を飲まないでよかった。
Kusuri o nomanai de yokatta.
I’m glad I didn’t take the medicine.
大学を選んでよかった。
Daigaku o erande yokatta.
I’m glad I chose this university.
旅行の計画を立ててよかった。
Ryokō no keikaku o tatete yokatta.
I’m glad I made travel plans.

Practice Exercises: Test Your Knowledge

Fill in the Blanks

Test your understanding with these 10 questions. Answers provided below!

彼と話して＿＿＿。
Kare to hanashite __.
(I’m glad I talked to him.)
宿題を＿＿＿よかった。
Shukudai o __ yokatta.
(I’m glad I finished my homework.)
あのケーキを＿＿＿よかった。
Ano kēki o __ yokatta.
(I’m glad I didn’t eat that cake.)
先生に＿＿＿よかったです。
Sensei ni __ yokatta desu.
(I’m glad I asked the teacher.)
電車に＿＿＿よかった。
Densha ni __ yokatta.
(I’m glad I didn’t miss the train.)
この本を＿＿＿よかった。
Kono hon o __ yokatta.
(I’m glad I read this book.)
パーティーに＿＿＿よかった。
Pātī ni __ yokatta.
(I’m glad I went to the party.)
あの道を＿＿＿でよかった。
Ano michi o __ de yokatta.
(I’m glad I didn’t take that road.)
母に＿＿＿よかった。
Haha ni __ yokatta.
(I’m glad I listened to my mom.)
歯を＿＿＿よかった。
Ha o __ yokatta.
(I’m glad I brushed my teeth.)

Answers:

よかった
終わって
食べないで
聞いて
乗り遅れないで
読んで
行って
選ばない
従って
磨いて

Cultural Insights: Nuances of Expressing Relief in Japanese

Japanese culture values modesty and indirect communication. Pair 〜てよかった with humble phrases like おかげさまで (okagesama de, “thanks to you”) in formal settings:

おかげさまで、準備してよかったです。
Okagesama de, junbi shite yokatta desu.
Thanks to you, I’m glad I prepared.

Summary

〜てよかった is a key Japanese grammar structure used to express relief or satisfaction about past actions.
The positive form follows the pattern: Verb (て-form) + よかった, while the negative form is Verb (ない-form) + でよかった.
It can also be applied to adjectives and nouns using でよかった.
Related structures include 〜ばよかった, which expresses regret rather than relief.
The phrase can be adjusted for different levels of politeness, making it useful in both casual and formal settings.
Common mistakes include incorrect て-form conjugation and misusing it for future actions instead of past events.
Cultural awareness is important, as 〜てよかった can sometimes imply unintended meanings depending on the context.
With proper practice, learners can confidently integrate 〜てよかった into their daily conversations for more natural Japanese communication.

Final Thoughts

Mastering 〜てよかった empowers you to express relief naturally and authentically. Use this guide to practice, avoid pitfalls, and integrate this phrase into daily conversations. Pair it with immersion and advanced resources like Tobira for complete mastery. By internalizing these lessons, you’ll enhance both your linguistic skills and cultural fluency.

Happy learning! 😊

JAPANESE

Japanese Verb Conjugation: Dictionary, ます, and Negative Forms

Mastering the Japanese Te-Form: A Comprehensive Guide

Mastering the Japanese たい Form: A Comprehensive Guide

Mastering the Expressions of Ability in Japanese

Understanding Japanese Verb Groups: A Beginner’s Guide

〜そうだ (Hearsay): Expressing Reported Speech in Japanese

〜そうだ (Appearance): Expressing ‘Looks Like’ in Japanese

〜そうだ (Hearsay) vs 〜そうだ (Appearance): Understanding the Difference

March 8, 2025

Using 〜てばかりいるin Japanese | My Language Classes

Understanding 〜てばかりいる in Japanese

Japanese is a language rich with nuance and subtle grammatical expressions. One such structure is 〜てばかりいる, a phrase used to indicate that someone is repeatedly or exclusively engaging in a specific action. In this post, we will explore the formation, meaning, nuances, and advanced usage of this structure. Additionally, we include example sentences, interactive exercises, and practice questions to help solidify your understanding. Whether you’re an advanced learner or new to Japanese grammar, this guide is designed to help you master 〜てばかりいる.

Introduction to 〜てばかりいる
Structure and Formation
Meaning and Nuances
Usage in Daily Conversation
Advanced Usage and Comparisons
Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them
Example Sentences
Fill in the Blanks Exercise
Cultural Context and Practical Tips
Conclusion

Introduction to 〜てばかりいる

Japanese learners often encounter the structure 〜てばかりいる when discussing habitual or exclusive behavior. This construction suggests that the subject is overly fixated on one action, usually implying a negative or unbalanced approach to life. For example, saying “彼はゲームをしてばかりいる” (He is always playing video games) criticizes someone for neglecting other responsibilities. In this post, we’ll break down its formation, explore how context can change its nuance, and offer practical examples to improve your fluency.

Structure and Formation

The structure 〜てばかりいる is relatively straightforward once you understand the building blocks of Japanese verbs. It involves the て-form of a verb, which is then followed by ばかりいる.

Formation Steps:

Convert the Verb to て-form:
Start with the basic form of the verb and change it to the て-form.
- For example: 食べる (taberu) becomes 食べて (tabete).
Add ばかりいる:
Simply attach ばかりいる to the て-form of the verb to indicate continuous or exclusive repetition.
- 食べて + ばかりいる = 食べてばかりいる (tabete bakari iru), which translates to “always eating” or “doing nothing but eating.”

Quick Example:

Verb: 読む (yomu, to read)
Transformation: 読んで (yonde)
Full Expression: 読んでばかりいる (yonde bakari iru)
Meaning: “Always reading” or “doing nothing but reading.”

This formation clearly indicates that the subject is repetitively engaging in the action to the exclusion of other activities.

Meaning and Nuances

While the basic meaning of 〜てばかりいる is “to do something all the time,” the context in which it is used can add different shades of meaning. Let’s look at the main nuances:

1. Negative or Critical Connotation

In many cases, 〜てばかりいる is used to criticize someone for engaging in an activity excessively. This suggests that the behavior is imbalanced or neglectful of other responsibilities.

Example:

Japanese: 彼は仕事をせずに遊んでばかりいる。
Romaji: Kare wa shigoto o sezu ni asonde bakari iru.
English: “He is always playing instead of working.”

This sentence clearly criticizes the subject’s lack of productivity.

2. Neutral or Descriptive Usage

Occasionally, the expression might be used simply to describe a frequent behavior without an overt negative judgment. Context and tone determine whether the statement is a mere observation or a subtle critique.

Example:

Japanese: 彼女は旅行してばかりいる。
Romaji: Kanojo wa ryokou shite bakari iru.
English: “She is always traveling.”

Depending on the speaker’s tone, this could be interpreted as a positive reflection on her lifestyle or a subtle lament about her lack of stability.

3. Emphasis on Monotony

Using 〜てばかりいる can also imply that the subject’s life is monotonous or lacking variety. This usage hints at a lifestyle where one activity overshadows all others, possibly leading to stagnation.

Usage in Daily Conversation

In everyday conversation, Japanese speakers frequently use 〜てばかりいる to comment on habitual behavior. Whether in casual talk among friends or in more formal critiques, this structure is versatile. Here are a few contextual scenarios:

Family and Friends

Example: 兄は昼寝してばかりいる。
Romaji: Ani wa hirune shite bakari iru.
English: “My older brother is always taking naps.”
This might be used in a playful or critical tone among family members.

Workplace Critiques

Example: 部長は会議で話してばかりいる。
Romaji: Buchou wa kaigi de hanashite bakari iru.
English: “The manager is always just talking in meetings.”
This comment could be made to express frustration about a lack of decisive action.

Social Media and Informal Writing

Many blog posts, social media updates, and informal reviews incorporate this structure to convey a sense of ongoing or one-dimensional behavior, making it a popular choice for digital communication.

Advanced Usage and Comparisons

While 〜てばかりいる is effective for indicating repetitive action, advanced learners might also encounter similar structures or alternative expressions that can convey subtle differences. Here are some comparisons:

1. 〜てばかりじゃなくて

This structure is used to indicate that not only is the subject engaged in one action, but they should also consider other activities.

Example:

Japanese: 彼は勉強してばかりじゃなくて、運動もしなさい。
Romaji: Kare wa benkyou shite bakari janakute, undou mo shinasai.
English: “Not only do you study all the time, but also exercise.”

This form is often used to provide balanced advice.

2. 〜ているだけ

Although similar to 〜てばかりいる, this expression often lacks the critical nuance and focuses on the state or condition of doing something continuously.

Example:

Japanese: 彼は仕事をしているだけだ。
Romaji: Kare wa shigoto o shite iru dake da.
English: “He is just working.”
Here, the speaker might be emphasizing that the subject is only working, without a judgment on the behavior.

3. Emphasis with 〜ばかりか

A related but different construction is 〜ばかりか, used to indicate “not only… but also.” While this is not directly interchangeable, understanding it can help clarify when to use 〜てばかりいる versus other patterns.

Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

Learning any new structure can lead to common errors. Here are some mistakes learners often make with 〜てばかりいる and tips on how to avoid them:

1. Incorrect て-form Usage

Ensure that you correctly convert the main verb into its て-form before attaching ばかりいる. For example, forgetting to change the verb 食べる to 食べて is a common error.

2. Overuse in Positive Contexts

Because 〜てばかりいる carries a negative nuance by default, using it in a purely positive context can lead to misunderstandings. Instead, consider alternative expressions if your intention is to describe a positive habit.

3. Mixing up Similar Structures

Avoid confusing 〜てばかりいる with similar expressions like 〜ているだけ. Each structure has a distinct nuance, so practice using them in context to understand the differences.

4. Neglecting Contextual Cues

The tone of your conversation plays a vital role in how 〜てばかりいる is interpreted. Make sure your context (verbal cues, facial expressions, etc.) aligns with the intended meaning, especially when speaking with native speakers.

Example Sentences

Below are ten example sentences using 〜てばかりいる, each complete with romaji and English translations. These examples range from casual conversation to more formal critiques.

Japanese: 彼は仕事をせずに遊んでばかりいる。
Romaji: Kare wa shigoto o sezu ni asonde bakari iru.
English: “He is always playing instead of working.”
Japanese: 子供たちはテレビを見てばかりいる。
Romaji: Kodomo-tachi wa terebi o mite bakari iru.
English: “The children are always watching TV.”
Japanese: 私は最近、食べてばかりいるので太った。
Romaji: Watashi wa saikin, tabete bakari iru node futotta.
English: “Recently, I’ve been eating all the time, so I gained weight.”
Japanese: 彼女はスマホをいじってばかりいる。
Romaji: Kanojo wa sumaho o ijitte bakari iru.
English: “She is always playing with her smartphone.”
Japanese: 彼は遅刻してばかりいるので、先生に怒られた。
Romaji: Kare wa chikoku shite bakari iru node, sensei ni okorareta.
English: “He is always late, so the teacher got angry.”
Japanese: 彼は漫画を読んでばかりいる。
Romaji: Kare wa manga o yonde bakari iru.
English: “He is always reading manga.”
Japanese: 最近、雨が降ってばかりいる。
Romaji: Saikin, ame ga futte bakari iru.
English: “Recently, it has been raining all the time.”
Japanese: 彼は文句を言ってばかりいる。
Romaji: Kare wa monku o itte bakari iru.
English: “He is always complaining.”
Japanese: 私は疲れているので寝てばかりいる。
Romaji: Watashi wa tsukarete iru node nete bakari iru.
English: “I am tired, so I am just sleeping all the time.”
Japanese: 彼女はお金を使ってばかりいる。
Romaji: Kanojo wa okane o tsukatte bakari iru.
English: “She is always spending money.”

Fill in the Blanks Exercise

Practice your understanding of 〜てばかりいる with these fill-in-the-blank questions. Choose the correct て-form of the verb to complete each sentence.

彼はスマホを ______ ばかりいる。
子供たちはお菓子を ______ ばかりいる。
私は最近、YouTubeを ______ ばかりいる。
彼は寝て ______ ばかりいる。
彼女は服を ______ ばかりいる。
私は映画を ______ ばかりいる。
彼はゲームを ______ ばかりいる。
彼女はSNSを ______ ばかりいる。
最近、彼は遅刻して ______ ばかりいる。
彼らは文句を ______ ばかりいる。

Answers:

いじって
食べて
見て
寝て (Note: For consistency, make sure you are using the proper て-form for 寝る: 寝て)
買って
見て
して
使って
して
言って

Cultural Context and Practical Tips

Understanding 〜てばかりいる isn’t just about grammar—it’s also about grasping the cultural nuances of Japanese communication. Here are some practical insights:

Balancing Criticism and Politeness

Japanese culture values harmony and indirect expression. When you use 〜てばかりいる to criticize someone, be mindful of your tone. It’s often softened with context or additional comments to avoid coming off as too harsh. For example, you might say, “もっと休むことも大事だけど、勉強してばかりいるのは良くないね” (“It’s important to rest sometimes, but always just studying isn’t good either.”).

Using the Structure in Different Settings

In the Workplace: Japanese work culture emphasizes diligence. Using 〜てばかりいる to comment on someone’s behavior in a work setting might be perceived as a critique on their productivity. Adjust your language accordingly.
Among Friends: When chatting with friends, this structure can be used playfully. For instance, teasing a friend for constantly being on their phone can be lighthearted if the tone is right.

Enhancing Your Speaking Skills

Incorporate 〜てばかりいる into your daily conversations by describing not only your habits but also those of fictional characters or public figures. This practice will help you become more comfortable with the structure and its contextual implications.

Conclusion

The 〜てばかりいる structure is a powerful tool in the Japanese language. It allows speakers to comment on behavior with nuance, whether critiquing excessive habits or simply describing frequent actions. By understanding its formation, exploring its nuances, and practicing with a variety of exercises, you can gain both a technical and cultural mastery of this grammatical pattern.

Remember that language learning is a gradual process. Continue to practice with example sentences, engage in interactive exercises, and immerse yourself in native content to improve your fluency. As you grow more confident, try creating your own sentences and scenarios using 〜てばかりいる.

For those interested in more advanced topics, explore similar structures like 〜てばかりじゃなくて and 〜ているだけ, which can further refine your ability to express balanced thoughts in Japanese.

We hope this comprehensive guide has deepened your understanding of 〜てばかりいる. Stay tuned for more in-depth Japanese language lessons, tips, and cultural insights. If you found this post useful, please share it with fellow learners and subscribe for updates on new content!

Happy learning! 😊

JAPANESE

Japanese Verb Conjugation: Dictionary, ます, and Negative Forms

Mastering the Japanese Te-Form: A Comprehensive Guide

Mastering the Japanese たい Form: A Comprehensive Guide

Mastering the Expressions of Ability in Japanese

Understanding Japanese Verb Groups: A Beginner’s Guide

〜そうだ (Hearsay): Expressing Reported Speech in Japanese

〜そうだ (Appearance): Expressing ‘Looks Like’ in Japanese

〜そうだ (Hearsay) vs 〜そうだ (Appearance): Understanding the Difference

March 6, 2025

〜み: The Nominalizer for Adjectives/Verbs | My Language Classes

Understanding 〜み in Japanese

Japanese is a language rich in nuances, and one of its unique features is the use of nominalizers like 〜み. If you’ve ever wondered how to turn adjectives into nouns to express abstract qualities or feelings, 〜み is your go-to tool.

In this blog post, we’ll dive deep into the meaning, formation, and usage of 〜み, along with plenty of examples to help you master this essential grammar point.

What is 〜み?

〜み is a nominalizer used primarily with adjectives (and sometimes verbs) to turn them into nouns. It expresses an abstract quality, state, or feeling associated with the original word. For example, 甘い (amai, sweet) becomes 甘み (amami, sweetness), which refers to the quality of being sweet.

This form is commonly used in everyday Japanese to describe sensations, emotions, or characteristics. It’s a versatile tool that adds depth to your expressions.

Formation of 〜み

1. With Adjectives

To form 〜み with adjectives, remove the final い (if it’s an い-adjective) and add み.

Example:

甘い (amai, sweet) → 甘み (amami, sweetness)
痛い (itai, painful) → 痛み (itami, pain)

2. With Nouns

Some nouns can also take 〜み to express a related quality or state.

Example:

強さ (tsuyosa, strength) → 強み (tsuyomi, strong point)
深さ (fukasa, depth) → 深み (fukami, depth/richness)

3. With Verbs

While less common, some verbs can also take 〜み to express a resulting state or quality.

Example:

楽しむ (tanoshimu, to enjoy) → 楽しみ (tanoshimi, enjoyment)
悲しむ (kanashimu, to grieve) → 悲しみ (kanashimi, sadness)

Usage of 〜み

The 〜み form is used in various situations to describe abstract qualities, emotions, or states. Here are some common scenarios:

Describing Sensations:
- 甘み (amami, sweetness)
- 苦み (nigami, bitterness)
Expressing Emotions:
- 悲しみ (kanashimi, sadness)
- 楽しみ (tanoshimi, enjoyment)
Highlighting Characteristics:
- 強み (tsuyomi, strong point)
- 弱み (yowami, weakness)
Describing Physical States:
- 痛み (itami, pain)
- 重み (omomi, heaviness)

List of Verbs, Nouns, and Adjectives with 〜み Form

Original Word	〜み Form	Example Sentence	Romaji	English Meaning
甘い (amai, sweet)	甘み (amami, sweetness)	この果物は甘みがある。	Kono kudamono wa amami ga aru.	This fruit has sweetness.
痛い (itai, painful)	痛み (itami, pain)	彼は痛みを感じた。	Kare wa itami o kanjita.	He felt pain.
強い (tsuyoi, strong)	強み (tsuyomi, strong point)	彼の強みは忍耐力だ。	Kare no tsuyomi wa nintairyoku da.	His strong point is patience.
深い (fukai, deep)	深み (fukami, depth)	この話には深みがある。	Kono hanashi ni wa fukami ga aru.	This story has depth.
悲しむ (kanashimu, to grieve)	悲しみ (kanashimi, sadness)	彼女の目には悲しみがあった。	Kanojo no me ni wa kanashimi ga atta.	There was sadness in her eyes.
楽しむ (tanoshimu, to enjoy)	楽しみ (tanoshimi, enjoyment)	週末の旅行が楽しみだ。	Shuumatsu no ryokou ga tanoshimi da.	I’m looking forward to the weekend trip.

More Example Sentences

この料理は苦みが特徴です。
Romaji: Kono ryouri wa nigami ga tokuchou desu.
English: This dish is characterized by its bitterness.
彼の言葉には重みがあった。
Romaji: Kare no kotoba ni wa omomi ga atta.
English: His words had weight.
このワインは酸みがきいている。
Romaji: Kono wain wa suami ga kiite iru.
English: This wine has a nice acidity.
彼女の笑顔には温かみがある。
Romaji: Kanojo no egao ni wa atatakami ga aru.
English: Her smile has warmth.
この絵には深みがある。
Romaji: Kono e ni wa fukami ga aru.
English: This painting has depth.
彼の強みはリーダーシップです。
Romaji: Kare no tsuyomi wa riidaashippu desu.
English: His strong point is leadership.
このお茶は甘みが少ない。
Romaji: Kono ocha wa amami ga sukunai.
English: This tea has little sweetness.
彼の目には悲しみが浮かんでいた。
Romaji: Kare no me ni wa kanashimi ga ukande ita.
English: Sadness was visible in his eyes.
この音楽には楽しみがある。
Romaji: Kono ongaku ni wa tanoshimi ga aru.
English: This music has a sense of enjoyment.
彼は痛みに耐えた。
Romaji: Kare wa itami ni taeta.
English: He endured the pain.

Things to Keep in Mind

Not All Adjectives Can Take 〜み: Some adjectives, like 新しい (atarashii, new), don’t naturally take 〜み.
Abstract Nature: 〜み is used for abstract qualities, not concrete objects.
Context Matters: The meaning of 〜み can vary depending on the context.
Less Common with Verbs: While possible, 〜み is rarely used with verbs compared to adjectives.

Fill in the Blanks

このケーキは______がある。 (甘い)
彼の______は優しさです。 (強い)
このコーヒーは______が強い。 (苦い)
彼女の声には______があった。 (暖かい)
この小説には______がある。 (深い)
彼は______に耐えた。 (痛い)
このワインは______がきいている。 (すあい)
彼の目には______が浮かんでいた。 (悲しい)
週末の旅行が______だ。 (楽しい)
この料理は______が特徴です。 (苦い)

Answers:

甘み
強み
苦み
温かみ
深み
痛み
酸み
悲しみ
楽しみ
苦み

Conclusion

Mastering 〜み is a great way to add depth and nuance to your Japanese. Whether you’re describing emotions, sensations, or characteristics, this nominalizer is a powerful tool in your language arsenal. Practice the examples, try the fill-in-the-blanks, and soon you’ll be using 〜み like a native speaker!

Happy learning! 😊

JAPANESE

Japanese Verb Conjugation: Dictionary, ます, and Negative Forms

Mastering the Japanese Te-Form: A Comprehensive Guide

Mastering the Japanese たい Form: A Comprehensive Guide

Mastering the Expressions of Ability in Japanese

Understanding Japanese Verb Groups: A Beginner’s Guide

〜そうだ (Hearsay): Expressing Reported Speech in Japanese

〜そうだ (Appearance): Expressing ‘Looks Like’ in Japanese

〜そうだ (Hearsay) vs 〜そうだ (Appearance): Understanding the Difference

February 24, 2025

Understanding 〜さ: The Nominalizer for Adjectives | My Language Classes

Using 〜さ as a Nominalizer

When learning Japanese, one of the most useful grammatical tools you’ll encounter is the nominalizer 〜さ. This simple yet powerful suffix transforms adjectives into nouns, allowing you to express concepts like “height,” “beauty,” or “difficulty” in a clear and concise way.

In this blog post, we’ll dive deep into the meaning, formation, and usage of 〜さ, along with plenty of examples to help you master this essential Japanese grammar point.

What is 〜さ?

In Japanese, 〜さ is a nominalizer that turns adjectives into nouns. It is used to express the degree, state, or quality of something. For example, the adjective 高い (takai), meaning “high” or “expensive,” becomes 高さ (takasa), which means “height” or “cost.” This makes 〜さ incredibly useful for describing abstract concepts or measurable qualities.

Formation of 〜さ

The formation of 〜さ is straightforward, but it varies slightly depending on the type of adjective or word it’s attached to. Let’s break it down:

1. With い-Adjectives (i-Adjectives)

Remove the final い (i) and add さ (sa).
Example:

高い (takai) → 高さ (takasa)
楽しい (tanoshii) → 楽しさ (tanoshisa)

2. With な-Adjectives (na-Adjectives)

Remove the な (na) and add さ (sa).
Example:

静か (shizuka) → 静かさ (shizukasa)
便利 (benri) → 便利さ (benrisa)

3. With Nouns

〜さ is rarely used with nouns directly, but it can be added to noun-like adjectives (e.g., 元気 → 元気さ).

Usage of 〜さ

The 〜さ form is used in various situations to express the degree, state, or quality of something. Here are some common scenarios:

Describing Physical Attributes
- この山の高さはどれくらいですか？
  (Kono yama no takasa wa dore kurai desu ka?)
  How high is this mountain?
Expressing Abstract Qualities
- 彼女の優しさに感動しました。
  (Kanojo no yasashisa ni kandou shimashita.)
  I was moved by her kindness.
Comparing Degrees or Levels
- この問題の難しさはレベルが高い。
  (Kono mondai no muzukashisa wa reberu ga takai.)
  The difficulty level of this problem is high.
Emphasizing a State or Condition
- この部屋の広さは十分です。
  (Kono heya no hirosa wa juubun desu.)
  The spaciousness of this room is sufficient.

List of Adjectives with 〜さ Form

Here’s a table showcasing common words with their 〜さ forms, along with example sentences:

Original Word	〜さ Form	Example Sentence (Japanese)	Romaji	English Meaning
高い (takai)	高さ (takasa)	このビルの高さはすごい。	Kono biru no takasa wa sugoi.	The height of this building is amazing.
楽しい (tanoshii)	楽しさ (tanoshisa)	旅行の楽しさは言葉では表せない。	Ryokou no tanoshisa wa kotoba de wa arawasenai.	The joy of traveling cannot be expressed in words.
静か (shizuka)	静かさ (shizukasa)	この公園の静かさが好きです。	Kono kouen no shizukasa ga suki desu.	I like the quietness of this park.
便利 (benri)	便利さ (benrisa)	このアプリの便利さに驚いた。	Kono apuri no benrisa ni odoroita.	I was amazed by the convenience of this app.
元気 (genki)	元気さ (genkisa)	彼の元気さはみんなの励みになる。	Kare no genkisa wa minna no hagemi ni naru.	His energy motivates everyone.

More Example Sentences

Here are 10 additional examples to help you understand the usage of 〜さ in context:

この湖の深さはどのくらいですか？
(Kono mizuumi no fukasa wa dono kurai desu ka?)
How deep is this lake?
彼の強さは誰にも負けない。
(Kare no tsuyosa wa dare ni mo makenai.)
His strength is unmatched by anyone.
この料理の辛さはちょうどいい。
(Kono ryouri no karasa wa choudo ii.)
The spiciness of this dish is just right.
この町の暖かさが好きです。
(Kono machi no atatakasa ga suki desu.)
I love the warmth of this town.
この仕事の大変さを理解しています。
(Kono shigoto no taihensa o rikai shiteimasu.)
I understand the difficulty of this job.
彼女の美しさは言葉では表せない。
(Kanojo no utsukushisa wa kotoba de wa arawasenai.)
Her beauty cannot be expressed in words.
この本の面白さに夢中になった。
(Kono hon no omoshirosa ni muchuu ni natta.)
I became engrossed in the interestingness of this book.
この問題の複雑さに悩んでいます。
(Kono mondai no fukuzatsusa ni nayandeimasu.)
I’m struggling with the complexity of this problem.
この海の青さは忘れられない。
(Kono umi no aosa wa wasurerarenai.)
I can’t forget the blueness of this sea.
このケーキの甘さは控えめです。
(Kono keeki no amasa wa hikaeme desu.)
The sweetness of this cake is mild.

Things to Keep in Mind

〜さ vs. 〜み: While both 〜さ and 〜み can nominalize adjectives, 〜さ is more commonly used for measurable or objective qualities, whereas 〜み often conveys a more subjective or emotional nuance.
Avoid Overuse: 〜さ is versatile, but overusing it can make your speech or writing sound repetitive.
Context Matters: Always consider the context when using 〜さ, as it may not always be the most natural choice.

Fill in the Blanks

Test your understanding of 〜さ with these fill-in-the-blank questions:

この川の______はどれくらいですか。（深い)
彼の______に感動しました。 (優しい)
この問題の______は高いです。 (難しい)
この部屋の______は十分です。 (広い)
彼女の______は誰にも負けない。 (強い)
この料理の______はちょうどいい。 (辛い)
この町の______が好きです。 (暖かい)
この仕事の______を理解しています。 (大変)
この海の______は忘れられない。 (青い)
このケーキの______は控えめです。 (甘い)

Answers:

深さ
優しさ
難しさ
広さ
強さ
辛さ
暖かさ
大変さ
青さ
甘さ

Conclusion

Mastering the 〜さ nominalizer is a key step in becoming fluent in Japanese. It allows you to express abstract qualities and measurable attributes with ease, making your speech and writing more nuanced and precise. By practicing the examples and understanding the formation rules, you’ll soon find yourself using 〜さ naturally in everyday conversations. Keep practicing, and don’t forget to pay attention to context and nuance!

Happy learning! 😊

JAPANESE

Japanese Verb Conjugation: Dictionary, ます, and Negative Forms

Mastering the Japanese Te-Form: A Comprehensive Guide

Mastering the Japanese たい Form: A Comprehensive Guide

Mastering the Expressions of Ability in Japanese

Understanding Japanese Verb Groups: A Beginner’s Guide

〜そうだ (Hearsay): Expressing Reported Speech in Japanese

〜そうだ (Appearance): Expressing ‘Looks Like’ in Japanese

〜そうだ (Hearsay) vs 〜そうだ (Appearance): Understanding the Difference

February 23, 2025

Understanding 〜おかげで in Japanese | My Language Classes

Understanding 〜おかげで

In Japanese, 〜おかげで (okage de) is a grammar point used to express gratitude or acknowledgment for a positive outcome that resulted from someone’s help, effort, or a specific situation. It translates to “thanks to,” “because of,” or “due to” in English. While it is often used in positive contexts, it can also be used sarcastically to imply a negative outcome. Understanding how to use 〜おかげで correctly is essential for expressing cause and effect in Japanese, especially when giving credit or showing appreciation.

Formation of 〜おかげで

The 〜おかげで structure can be formed with verbs, nouns, and adjectives. Here’s how it works:

1. With Verbs

Verb (plain past tense) + おかげで
Example:
勉強したおかげで (benkyou shita okage de) – Thanks to studying

2. With Nouns

Noun + の + おかげで
Example:
先生のおかげで (sensei no okage de) – Thanks to the teacher

3. With Adjectives

い-Adjective (plain past tense) + おかげで
Example:
楽しかったおかげで (tanoshikatta okage de) – Thanks to it being fun
な-Adjective + だった + おかげで
Example:
静かだったおかげで (shizuka datta okage de) – Thanks to it being quiet

Usage of 〜おかげで

〜おかげで is used in various situations to express gratitude or acknowledge the cause of a positive outcome. Here are some common scenarios:

Expressing Gratitude: Thanking someone for their help or effort.
Example: あなたのおかげで成功しました。 (Anata no okage de seikou shimashita.) – Thanks to you, I succeeded.
Acknowledging a Situation: Recognizing a situation that led to a positive result.
Example: いい天気のおかげでピクニックが楽しめました。 (Ii tenki no okage de pikunikku ga tanoshimemashita.) – Thanks to the good weather, we enjoyed the picnic.
Sarcastic Usage: Implying a negative outcome (often used humorously or ironically).
Example: あなたのおかげで遅刻しました。 (Anata no okage de chikoku shimashita.) – Thanks to you, I was late.

List of Verbs, Nouns, and Adjectives with 〜おかげで Form

Word Type	Word	〜おかげで Form	Example Sentence (Japanese)	Romaji Version	English Meaning
Verb	勉強する (study)	勉強したおかげで	勉強したおかげで合格した。	Benkyou shita okage de goukaku shita.	Thanks to studying, I passed the exam.
Verb	頑張る (work hard)	頑張ったおかげで	頑張ったおかげで成功した。	Ganbatta okage de seikou shita.	Thanks to working hard, I succeeded.
Noun	先生 (teacher)	先生のおかげで	先生のおかげで日本語が上手になった。	Sensei no okage de nihongo ga jouzu ni natta.	Thanks to the teacher, my Japanese improved.
Noun	友達 (friend)	友達のおかげで	友達のおかげで楽しかった。	Tomodachi no okage de tanoshikatta.	Thanks to my friend, it was fun.
い-Adjective	楽しい (fun)	楽しかったおかげで	楽しかったおかげで元気になった。	Tanoshikatta okage de genki ni natta.	Thanks to it being fun, I felt energized.
い-Adjective	早い (early)	早かったおかげで	早かったおかげで間に合った。	Hayakatta okage de maniatta.	Thanks to being early, I made it on time.
な-Adjective	静か (quiet)	静かだったおかげで	静かだったおかげで集中できた。	Shizuka datta okage de shuuchuu dekita.	Thanks to it being quiet, I could focus.
な-Adjective	便利 (convenient)	便利だったおかげで	便利だったおかげで時間が節約できた。	Benri datta okage de jikan ga setsuyaku dekita.	Thanks to it being convenient, I saved time.

More Example Sentences

友達のおかげで新しい仕事を見つけました。
Tomodachi no okage de atarashii shigoto o mitsukemashita.
Thanks to my friend, I found a new job.
雨のおかげで庭の花がきれいに咲きました。
Ame no okage de niwa no hana ga kirei ni sakimashita.
Thanks to the rain, the flowers in the garden bloomed beautifully.
彼のアドバイスのおかげで問題が解決しました。
Kare no adobaisu no okage de mondai ga kaiketsu shimashita.
Thanks to his advice, the problem was solved.
勉強したおかげで試験に合格しました。
Benkyou shita okage de shiken ni goukaku shimashita.
Thanks to studying, I passed the exam.
先生のおかげで日本語が上手になりました。
Sensei no okage de nihongo ga jouzu ni narimashita.
Thanks to the teacher, my Japanese improved.
早く起きたおかげで朝ごはんを食べられました。
Hayaku okita okage de asagohan o taberaremashita.
Thanks to waking up early, I could eat breakfast.
彼女のおかげで楽しい時間を過ごせました。
Kanojo no okage de tanoshii jikan o sugosemashita.
Thanks to her, I had a great time.
天気が良かったおかげで遠足が楽しめました。
Tenki ga yokatta okage de ensoku ga tanoshimemashita.
Thanks to the good weather, the field trip was enjoyable.
あなたのおかげで自信がつきました。
Anata no okage de jishin ga tsukimashita.
Thanks to you, I gained confidence.
便利なアプリのおかげで道に迷いませんでした。
Benri na apuri no okage de michi ni mayoimasen deshita.
Thanks to the convenient app, I didn’t get lost.

Things to Keep in Mind

Positive vs. Sarcastic Usage: While 〜おかげで is mostly used for positive outcomes, it can also be used sarcastically. Pay attention to the context.
Politeness: When expressing gratitude, 〜おかげで is polite enough for most situations. However, adding です or ます forms can make it more formal.
Avoid Overuse: Use 〜おかげで when the cause and effect are clear. Overusing it can make your speech sound unnatural.
Subject Awareness: The subject of the sentence is often omitted in Japanese, so ensure the context makes it clear who or what is being thanked.

Fill in the Blanks

彼の助けのおかげで、__________。
勉強したおかげで、__________。
先生のおかげで、__________。
天気が良かったおかげで、__________。
友達のおかげで、__________。
早く起きたおかげで、__________。
便利なアプリのおかげで、__________。
静かだったおかげで、__________。
彼女のおかげで、__________。
頑張ったおかげで、__________。

Answers:

彼の助けのおかげで、問題が解決しました。
勉強したおかげで、試験に合格しました。
先生のおかげで、日本語が上手になりました。
天気が良かったおかげで、遠足が楽しめました。
友達のおかげで、楽しい時間を過ごせました。
早く起きたおかげで、朝ごはんを食べられました。
便利なアプリのおかげで、道に迷いませんでした。
静かだったおかげで、集中できました。
彼女のおかげで、自信がつきました。
頑張ったおかげで、成功しました。

Conclusion

〜おかげで is a versatile and essential grammar point in Japanese that allows you to express gratitude, acknowledge positive outcomes, or even add a touch of sarcasm. By mastering its formation and usage, you can effectively communicate cause-and-effect relationships in various contexts. Practice using 〜おかげで in your daily conversations, and soon it will become a natural part of your Japanese language skills. Keep studying, and 頑張ってください！ (Ganbatte kudasai!)

Happy learning! 😊

JAPANESE

Japanese Verb Conjugation: Dictionary, ます, and Negative Forms

Mastering the Japanese Te-Form: A Comprehensive Guide

Mastering the Japanese たい Form: A Comprehensive Guide

Mastering the Expressions of Ability in Japanese

Understanding Japanese Verb Groups: A Beginner’s Guide

〜そうだ (Hearsay): Expressing Reported Speech in Japanese

〜そうだ (Appearance): Expressing ‘Looks Like’ in Japanese

〜そうだ (Hearsay) vs 〜そうだ (Appearance): Understanding the Difference

February 21, 2025

Using 〜ばかりか〜も in Japanese | My Language Classes

Mastering the Japanese Grammar Point: 〜ばかりか〜も

When learning Japanese, one of the most fascinating aspects is discovering how the language expresses complex ideas with seemingly simple structures. One such structure is 〜ばかりか〜も, a grammar point that allows speakers to emphasize not just one thing, but an additional, often surprising or unexpected, element. In English, this can be roughly translated as “not only… but also…” or “not just… but even…”. It’s a powerful way to add depth and nuance to your sentences, making your Japanese sound more natural and sophisticated.

In this blog post, we’ll dive deep into the formation, usage, and nuances of 〜ばかりか〜も. By the end, you’ll have a solid understanding of how to use this grammar point in various contexts, along with plenty of examples to guide you.

Formation of 〜ばかりか〜も

The structure 〜ばかりか〜も is used to connect two clauses, where the first clause introduces something expected or known, and the second clause adds something unexpected or surprising. It can be used with verbs, nouns, and adjectives. Let’s break down the formation for each:

1. With Verbs

Verb (plain form) + ばかりか + も
- Example: 食べる (to eat) → 食べるばかりか、も…

2. With Nouns

Noun + ばかりか + も
- Example: 学生 (student) → 学生ばかりか、も…

3. With Adjectives

い-Adjective (plain form) + ばかりか + も
- Example: 高い (expensive) → 高いばかりか、も…
な-Adjective (plain form) + ばかりか + も
- Example: 静か (quiet) → 静かなばかりか、も…

Usage of 〜ばかりか〜も

The 〜ばかりか〜も structure is used to emphasize that something goes beyond what is expected. It often carries a tone of surprise or emphasis, and it’s commonly used in both written and spoken Japanese. Here are some situations where you might use it:

To emphasize an unexpected addition:
- “Not only did he forget my birthday, but he also didn’t even apologize.”
To highlight a contrast:
- “Not only is she smart, but she’s also incredibly kind.”
To express exaggeration or surprise:
- “Not only did it rain, but it even snowed!”
To list multiple negative outcomes:
- “Not only did I lose my wallet, but I also missed my train.”

List of Verbs, Nouns, and Adjectives with 〜ばかりか〜も

Here’s a table with examples of 〜ばかりか〜も used with verbs, nouns, and adjectives:

Type	Word	Example Sentence	Romaji	English Meaning
Verb	食べる (to eat)	彼はケーキを食べるばかりか、アイスクリームも食べた。	Kare wa keeki o taberu bakari ka, aisu kuriimu mo tabeta.	Not only did he eat cake, but he also ate ice cream.
Verb	行く (to go)	彼女は公園に行くばかりか、映画館にも行った。	Kanojo wa kouen ni iku bakari ka, eigakan ni mo itta.	Not only did she go to the park, but she also went to the movie theater.
Noun	学生 (student)	彼は学生ばかりか、先生もしている。	Kare wa gakusei bakari ka, sensei mo shite iru.	Not only is he a student, but he’s also a teacher.
Noun	雨 (rain)	今日は雨ばかりか、雪も降っている。	Kyou wa ame bakari ka, yuki mo futte iru.	Not only is it raining today, but it’s also snowing.
い-Adjective	高い (expensive)	このレストランは高いばかりか、サービスも悪い。	Kono resutoran wa takai bakari ka, saabisu mo warui.	Not only is this restaurant expensive, but the service is also bad.
い-Adjective	暑い (hot)	夏は暑いばかりか、湿度も高い。	Natsu wa atsui bakari ka, shitsudo mo takai.	Not only is summer hot, but the humidity is also high.
な-Adjective	静か (quiet)	この町は静かなばかりか、安全でもある。	Kono machi wa shizuka na bakari ka, anzen demo aru.	Not only is this town quiet, but it’s also safe.
な-Adjective	便利 (convenient)	このアプリは便利なばかりか、無料でもある。	Kono apuri wa benri na bakari ka, muryou demo aru.	Not only is this app convenient, but it’s also free.

More Example Sentences

Here are 10 more examples of 〜ばかりか〜も in action:

彼は遅刻するばかりか、宿題も忘れた。
Kare wa chikoku suru bakari ka, shukudai mo wasureta.
Not only was he late, but he also forgot his homework.
この本は面白いばかりか、ためにもなる。
Kono hon wa omoshiroi bakari ka, tame ni mo naru.
Not only is this book interesting, but it’s also helpful.
彼女は歌が上手なばかりか、ダンスも得意だ。
Kanojo wa uta ga jouzu na bakari ka, dansu mo tokui da.
Not only is she good at singing, but she’s also great at dancing.
この車は速いばかりか、燃費もいい。
Kono kuruma wa hayai bakari ka, nenpi mo ii.
Not only is this car fast, but it’s also fuel-efficient.
彼は日本語が話せるばかりか、フランス語も話せる。
Kare wa nihongo ga hanaseru bakari ka, furansugo mo hanaseru.
Not only can he speak Japanese, but he can also speak French.
このホテルは綺麗なばかりか、サービスも素晴らしい。
Kono hoteru wa kirei na bakari ka, saabisu mo subarashii.
Not only is this hotel beautiful, but the service is also excellent.
彼は宿題をしないばかりか、授業もサボった。
Kare wa shukudai o shinai bakari ka, jugyou mo sabotta.
Not only did he not do his homework, but he also skipped class.
この料理は美味しいばかりか、見た目も素敵だ。
Kono ryouri wa oishii bakari ka, mitame mo suteki da.
Not only is this dish delicious, but it also looks amazing.
彼は仕事が忙しいばかりか、家事もやらなければならない。
Kare wa shigoto ga isogashii bakari ka, kaji mo yaranakereba naranai.
Not only is he busy with work, but he also has to do housework.
この映画は感動的ばかりか、音楽も素晴らしい。
Kono eiga wa kandouteki bakari ka, ongaku mo subarashii.
Not only is this movie moving, but the music is also wonderful.

Things to Keep in Mind

Tone: The structure often carries a tone of surprise or emphasis, so use it when you want to highlight something unexpected.
Formality: It’s more common in written Japanese or formal speech. In casual conversation, you might hear 〜だけでなく〜も more often.
Word Order: The second clause (after も) should logically follow the first clause.
Avoid Overuse: Like any advanced grammar point, overusing it can make your speech or writing sound unnatural.

Fill in the Blanks Questions

彼は勉強しないばかりか、__________もサボった。
このレストランは美味しいばかりか、__________も安い。
彼女はピアノが上手なばかりか、__________も得意だ。
この本は面白いばかりか、__________にもなる。
今日は雨が降るばかりか、__________も降っている。
彼は日本語が話せるばかりか、__________も話せる。
この町は静かなばかりか、__________でもある。
彼は仕事が忙しいばかりか、__________もやらなければならない。
この映画は感動的ばかりか、__________も素晴らしい。
この車は速いばかりか、__________もいい。

Answers

授業
値段
ダンス
ため
雪
フランス語
安全
家事
音楽
燃費

Conclusion

The 〜ばかりか〜も structure is a versatile and powerful tool in Japanese that allows you to express not only the expected but also the unexpected. Whether you’re emphasizing a surprising addition, contrasting two ideas, or simply adding depth to your sentences, this grammar point is invaluable. With the examples and explanations provided in this blog, you’re now equipped to use 〜ばかりか〜も confidently in your own Japanese conversations and writing. Keep practicing, and soon it’ll become second nature!

Happy learning! 😊

JAPANESE

Japanese Verb Conjugation: Dictionary, ます, and Negative Forms

Mastering the Japanese Te-Form: A Comprehensive Guide

Mastering the Japanese たい Form: A Comprehensive Guide

Mastering the Expressions of Ability in Japanese

Understanding Japanese Verb Groups: A Beginner’s Guide

〜そうだ (Hearsay): Expressing Reported Speech in Japanese

〜そうだ (Appearance): Expressing ‘Looks Like’ in Japanese

〜そうだ (Hearsay) vs 〜そうだ (Appearance): Understanding the Difference

February 19, 2025

Understanding 〜だけでなく〜も in Japanese | My Language Classes

Using 〜だけでなく〜も in Japanese

In Japanese, the structure 〜だけでなく〜も is a versatile and commonly used grammatical pattern that means “not only… but also…” in English. It is used to emphasize that something is true not just about one thing, but about another as well. This structure is incredibly useful for adding depth and nuance to your sentences, whether you’re talking about nouns, verbs, or adjectives.

For example, if you want to say, “Not only is she smart, but she is also kind,” you would use 〜だけでなく〜も to convey this idea. This blog post will guide you through the formation, usage, and nuances of this structure, along with plenty of examples to help you master it.

Formation of 〜だけでなく〜も

The structure 〜だけでなく〜も can be used with nouns, verbs, and adjectives. Let’s break it down:

1. With Nouns

When used with nouns, the structure is:
Noun + だけでなく + Noun + も

Example:

彼は先生だけでなく作家でもあります。
(Kare wa sensei dake de naku sakka demo arimasu.)
He is not only a teacher but also a writer.

2. With Verbs

When used with verbs, the structure is:
Verb (dictionary form) + だけでなく + Verb + も

Example:

彼女は歌うだけでなく踊ることもできます。
(Kanojo wa utau dake de naku odoru koto mo dekimasu.)
She can not only sing but also dance.

3. With Adjectives

When used with adjectives, the structure is:
Adjective + だけでなく + Adjective + も

Example:

この映画は面白いだけでなく感動的でもあります。
(Kono eiga wa omoshiroi dake de naku kandouteki demo arimasu.)
This movie is not only interesting but also moving.

Usage of 〜だけでなく〜も

The 〜だけでなく〜も structure is used in a variety of situations to emphasize that two or more things are true. It can be used in formal and informal contexts, and it works well in both written and spoken Japanese. Here are some common situations where you might use it:

Highlighting multiple qualities of a person or thing:
- 彼は頭がいいだけでなくスポーツも得意です。
  (Kare wa atama ga ii dake de naku supōtsu mo tokui desu.)
  He is not only smart but also good at sports.
Adding additional information:
- このレストランは安いだけでなく美味しいです。
  (Kono resutoran wa yasui dake de naku oishii desu.)
  This restaurant is not only cheap but also delicious.
Expanding on actions or abilities:
- 彼は走るだけでなく泳ぐこともできます。
  (Kare wa hashiru dake de naku oyogu koto mo dekimasu.)
  He can not only run but also swim.

Table of Examples

Here’s a table with examples of 〜だけでなく〜も used with nouns, verbs, and adjectives:

Situation	Example Sentence (Japanese)	Romaji Version	English Meaning
Noun + だけでなく + Noun + も	彼は医者だけでなく画家でもあります。	Kare wa isha dake de naku gaka demo arimasu.	He is not only a doctor but also a painter.
	この本は面白いだけでなく役に立つです。	Kono hon wa omoshiroi dake de naku yaku ni tatsu desu.	This book is not only interesting but also useful.
Verb + だけでなく + Verb + も	彼女は料理するだけでなく掃除することも好きです。	Kanojo wa ryōri suru dake de naku sōji suru koto mo suki desu.	She not only likes to cook but also likes to clean.
	彼は勉強するだけでなく遊ぶことも大切にしています。	Kare wa benkyō suru dake de naku asobu koto mo taisetsu ni shiteimasu.	He not only studies but also values playing.
Adjective + だけでなく + Adjective + も	この町は静かなだけでなく美しいです。	Kono machi wa shizuka na dake de naku utsukushii desu.	This town is not only quiet but also beautiful.
	彼の話は長いだけでなく退屈です。	Kare no hanashi wa nagai dake de naku taikutsu desu.	His story is not only long but also boring.

More Example Sentences

Here are 10 more examples of 〜だけでなく〜も in action:

彼は日本語だけでなく英語も話せます。
(Kare wa nihongo dake de naku eigo mo hanasemasu.)
He can speak not only Japanese but also English.
この車は速いだけでなく安全です。
(Kono kuruma wa hayai dake de naku anzen desu.)
This car is not only fast but also safe.
彼女は歌うだけでなくピアノを弾くこともできます。
(Kanojo wa utau dake de naku piano o hiku koto mo dekimasu.)
She can not only sing but also play the piano.
このアプリは便利なだけでなく無料です。
(Kono apuri wa benri na dake de naku muryō desu.)
This app is not only convenient but also free.
彼は勉強だけでなくスポーツも得意です。
(Kare wa benkyō dake de naku supōtsu mo tokui desu.)
He is not only good at studying but also at sports.
このレストランは美味しいだけでなく雰囲気も良いです。
(Kono resutoran wa oishii dake de naku funiki mo ii desu.)
This restaurant is not only delicious but also has a good atmosphere.
彼は走るだけでなく泳ぐこともできます。
(Kare wa hashiru dake de naku oyogu koto mo dekimasu.)
He can not only run but also swim.
この本は面白いだけでなくためになるです。
(Kono hon wa omoshiroi dake de naku tame ni naru desu.)
This book is not only interesting but also informative.
彼女は優しいだけでなく頭もいいです。
(Kanojo wa yasashii dake de naku atama mo ii desu.)
She is not only kind but also smart.
この公園は広いだけでなく静かです。
(Kono kōen wa hiroi dake de naku shizuka desu.)
This park is not only spacious but also quiet.

Things to Keep in Mind

Politeness Level: The structure 〜だけでなく〜も can be used in both formal and informal contexts. However, in formal writing or speech, you might want to use 〜のみならず〜も for a more polished tone.
Order of Information: The first part of the sentence (before だけでなく) is usually the more obvious or expected information, while the second part (after も) adds something unexpected or additional.
Avoid Overuse: While this structure is useful, overusing it can make your sentences sound repetitive. Use it when you want to emphasize the addition of information.
Parallel Structure: Ensure that the parts before and after だけでなく are grammatically parallel (e.g., both nouns, both verbs, or both adjectives).

Fill in the Blanks

Here are 10 fill-in-the-blank questions to test your understanding of 〜だけでなく〜も:

彼は日本語だけでなく________も話せます。
(Kare wa nihongo dake de naku ________ mo hanasemasu.)
この映画は________だけでなく感動的でもあります。
(Kono eiga wa ________ dake de naku kandouteki demo arimasu.)
彼女は歌うだけでなく________こともできます。
(Kanojo wa utau dake de naku ________ koto mo dekimasu.)
この本は________だけでなく役に立つです。
(Kono hon wa ________ dake de naku yaku ni tatsu desu.)
彼は走るだけでなく________こともできます。
(Kare wa hashiru dake de naku ________ koto mo dekimasu.)
この町は________だけでなく美しいです。
(Kono machi wa ________ dake de naku utsukushii desu.)
彼は勉強だけでなく________も得意です。
(Kare wa benkyō dake de naku ________ mo tokui desu.)
このアプリは________だけでなく無料です。
(Kono apuri wa ________ dake de naku muryō desu.)
彼女は優しいだけでなく________です。
(Kanojo wa yasashii dake de naku ________ desu.)
この公園は________だけでなく静かです。
(Kono kōen wa ________ dake de naku shizuka desu.)

Answers:

英語 (eigo)
面白い (omoshiroi)
踊る (odoru)
面白い (omoshiroi)
泳ぐ (oyogu)
静か (shizuka)
スポーツ (supōtsu)
便利 (benri)
頭がいい (atama ga ii)
広い (hiroi)

Conclusion

The 〜だけでなく〜も structure is a powerful tool in Japanese for emphasizing multiple qualities, actions, or characteristics. Whether you’re describing people, places, or things, this pattern allows you to add depth and nuance to your sentences. By mastering its formation and usage, you’ll be able to express yourself more clearly and effectively in Japanese. Keep practicing with the examples and exercises provided, and soon you’ll be using 〜だけでなく〜も like a pro!

Happy learning! 😊

JAPANESE

Japanese Verb Conjugation: Dictionary, ます, and Negative Forms

Mastering the Japanese Te-Form: A Comprehensive Guide

Mastering the Japanese たい Form: A Comprehensive Guide

Mastering the Expressions of Ability in Japanese

Understanding Japanese Verb Groups: A Beginner’s Guide

〜そうだ (Hearsay): Expressing Reported Speech in Japanese

〜そうだ (Appearance): Expressing ‘Looks Like’ in Japanese

〜そうだ (Hearsay) vs 〜そうだ (Appearance): Understanding the Difference

February 17, 2025

Using〜そうだ (Appearance) | My Language Classes:

Expressing ‘Looks Like’ in Japanese 〜そうだ

In Japanese, the grammar pattern 〜そうだ (sou da) is used to express that something “looks like” or “seems” a certain way based on its appearance. This pattern is useful when describing objects, actions, or situations that give a certain impression. It is often used with adjectives, nouns, and verbs, but its meaning slightly changes depending on the word category.

This blog will guide you through the formation, usage, and different contexts where 〜そうだ (Appearance) can be applied.

Formation of 〜そうだ (Appearance)

1. Using with Adjectives

For i-adjectives: Drop the final い (i) and add 〜そうだ.
- Example: おいしい → おいしそうだ (Oishii → Oishisou da) – “Looks delicious.”
For na-adjectives: Just add 〜そうだ directly to the adjective.
- Example: 美しい → 美しそうだ (Utsukushii → Utsukushisou da) – “Looks beautiful.”

2. Using with Verbs

For verbs (stem form): Take the ます-stem and add 〜そうだ.
- Example: 雨が降る (Ame ga furu) → 雨が降りそうだ (Ame ga furisou da) – “It looks like it will rain.”

3. Using with Nouns

Nouns do not usually take the 〜そうだ form when expressing appearance. Instead, のようだ or みたいだ is commonly used.

Usage of 〜そうだ (Appearance) Form

1. Describing Physical Appearance:

「他は強そうだ」

Romaji: Kare wa tsuyosou da.
English: He looks strong.

「このかばんは重そうだ」

Romaji: Kono kaban wa omosou da.
English: This bag looks heavy.

2. Expressing Predictions Based on Appearance:

「このケーキは生でたべられそうだ」

Romaji: Kono kēki wa nama de taberare-sou da.
English: This cake looks edible raw.

「この車はまだ動きそうだ」

Romaji: Kono kuruma wa mada ugoki-sou da.
English: This car looks like it can still run.

3. Talking About Immediate Future Actions:

「雨が降りそうだ」

Romaji: Ame ga furi-sou da.
English: It looks like it’s going to rain.

「電車が出発しそうだ」

Romaji: Densha ga shuppatsu shisou da.
English: The train looks like it’s about to depart.

Common Words with 〜そうだ (Appearance) Form:

Here’s a well-structured table with verbs, nouns, and adjectives in their 〜そうだ (Appearance) Form, along with two example sentences for each.

Type	Word	〜そうだ Form	Example Sentence 1	Romaji	English Meaning	Example Sentence 2	Romaji	English Meaning
Verb	食べる (taberu) – to eat	食べられそうだ (taberare-sou da)	このケーキは美味しそうだから食べられそうだ。	Kono kēki wa oishisou dakara taberare-sou da.	This cake looks delicious, so it seems edible.	このスープは熱そうだけど飲めそうだ。	Kono sūpu wa atsusou dakedo nome-sou da.	This soup looks hot, but it seems drinkable.
Verb	壊れる (kowareru) – to break	壊れそうだ (koware-sou da)	この椅子は古くて壊れそうだ。	Kono isu wa furukute koware-sou da.	This chair looks old and about to break.	このおもちゃは落としたら壊れそうだ。	Kono omocha wa otoshitara koware-sou da.	This toy looks like it will break if dropped.
Noun	雨 (ame) – rain	雨が降りそうだ (ame ga furi-sou da)	空が暗くなってきたから、雨が降りそうだ。	Sora ga kuraku natte kita kara, ame ga furi-sou da.	The sky is getting dark, so it looks like it’s going to rain.	風が強くなってきたし、雨が降りそうだね。	Kaze ga tsuyoku natte kita shi, ame ga furi-sou da ne.	The wind is getting stronger, and it looks like it will rain.
Noun	試験 (shiken) – exam	試験が難しそうだ (shiken ga muzukashisou da)	明日の試験は難しそうだ。	Ashita no shiken wa muzukashisou da.	Tomorrow’s exam looks difficult.	先生の説明を聞いて、試験が簡単そうだと思った。	Sensei no setsumei o kiite, shiken ga kantansou da to omotta.	After hearing the teacher’s explanation, I thought the exam looked easy.
Adjective	美味しい (oishii) – delicious	美味しそうだ (oishisou da)	このラーメンは美味しそうだね！	Kono rāmen wa oishisou da ne!	This ramen looks delicious!	おばあちゃんの作ったケーキは美味しそうだ。	Obaachan no tsukutta kēki wa oishisou da.	The cake my grandmother made looks delicious.
Adjective	楽しい (tanoshii) – fun	楽しそうだ (tanoshisou da)	彼らの旅行はとても楽しそうだ。	Karera no ryokō wa totemo tanoshisou da.	Their trip looks really fun.	あの子たちはゲームをしていて楽しそうだね。	Ano kotachi wa gēmu o shiteite tanoshisou da ne.	Those kids look like they’re having fun playing games.
Adjective	寒い (samui) – cold	寒そうだ (samusou da)	彼は薄い服を着ていて寒そうだ。	Kare wa usui fuku o kiteite samusou da.	He is wearing thin clothes and looks cold.	外は雪が降っていてとても寒そうだ。	Soto wa yuki ga futteite totemo samusou da.	It is snowing outside, and it looks very cold.

More Example Sentences

Here are 10 more example sentences using 〜そうだ (Appearance) Form, along with romaji and English meanings:

このスープは熱そうだ。
- Romaji: Kono sūpu wa atsusou da.
- English: This soup looks hot.
彼は疲れていそうだ。
- Romaji: Kare wa tsukareteisou da.
- English: He looks tired.
あの建物は古くて壊れそうだ。
- Romaji: Ano tatemono wa furukute kowaresou da.
- English: That building looks old and about to collapse.
この箱は軽そうだね。
- Romaji: Kono hako wa karusou da ne.
- English: This box looks light.
彼の話は面白そうだ。
- Romaji: Kare no hanashi wa omoshirosou da.
- English: His story sounds interesting.
この靴は履きやすそうだ。
- Romaji: Kono kutsu wa haki-yasusou da.
- English: These shoes look easy to wear.
あの犬はおとなしくて優しそうだね。
- Romaji: Ano inu wa otonashikute yasashisou da ne.
- English: That dog looks calm and gentle.
このカバンは丈夫そうだ。
- Romaji: Kono kaban wa joubusou da.
- English: This bag looks durable.
彼女の料理は美味しそうだ。
- Romaji: Kanojo no ryōri wa oishisou da.
- English: Her cooking looks delicious.
あの道は滑りそうだから気をつけて！

Romaji: Ano michi wa suberisou dakara ki o tsukete!
English: That road looks slippery, so be careful!

Things to Keep in Mind About 〜そうだ (Appearance) Form

When using 〜そうだ (Appearance) Form, there are a few important points to remember:

1. Used for Visual Appearance or Impression

This form is used when something looks a certain way based on visual observation or impression.
Example:
- このケーキは甘そうだ。 (Kono kēki wa amasou da.) → This cake looks sweet. (Judging by appearance, not by tasting it.)

2. Not for First-Hand Experience

It should not be used when you have direct experience with something (e.g., you actually ate the cake).
Incorrect: このケーキを食べたけど甘そうだ。(Kono kēki o tabeta kedo amasou da.) ❌
Correct: このケーキは甘い。(Kono kēki wa amai.) ✅ → This cake is sweet.

3. Different from 〜そうだ (Hearsay)

〜そうだ (Appearance) is different from 〜そうだ (Hearsay), which is used to report something you heard from someone else.
Example (Appearance):
- 彼は元気そうだ。 (Kare wa genkisou da.) → He looks energetic.
Example (Hearsay):
- 彼は元気だそうだ。 (Kare wa genki da sou da.) → I heard that he is energetic.

4. Adjective Conjugation Rules

For い-adjectives: Remove い and add そうだ.
- Example: おいしい → おいしそうだ (oishii → oishisou da) → Looks delicious
For な-adjectives: Just add そうだ.
- Example: 元気（げんき）→ 元気そうだ (genki → genkisou da) → Looks healthy

5. Special Case: Negative Form

To say “doesn’t look ~,” change ない to なさそうだ.
- Example:
  - 美味しくない (oishikunai) → 美味しくなさそうだ (oishikunasa sou da) → Doesn’t look delicious.
  - 元気じゃない (genki janai) → 元気じゃなさそうだ (genki janasa sou da) → Doesn’t look healthy.

6. Verb Usage: Potential & Immediate Action

For potential actions: Use the stem of the potential form of the verb + そうだ.
- Example: この橋は渡れそうだ。(Kono hashi wa watare-sou da.) → This bridge looks crossable.
For immediate actions: Use the stem of the dictionary form + そうだ.
- Example: 雨が降りそうだ。(Ame ga furi-sou da.) → It looks like it’s going to rain soon.

7. Special Irregular Adjectives

いい (good) → よさそうだ (yosasou da) → Looks good.
ない (not existing) → なさそうだ (nasasou da) → Doesn’t seem to exist.

Fill in the Blanks

Fill in the blanks with the correct 〜そうだ form of the given words.

Questions:

このスープは _______ (熱い) ですね！気をつけて！
彼は昨日から寝ていないみたいで、とても _______ (疲れる)。
あの子はとても _______ (賢い) ね！
この橋は古くて _______ (壊れる)。
あの店のラーメンは _______ (美味しい)。
今日は空が暗くて、雨が _______ (降る)。
このかばんはとても _______ (丈夫) ですね。
彼女の話は _______ (面白い)。
この靴は _______ (歩きやすい)。
この椅子は _______ (座りにくい) から、別のを使おう。

Answers:

熱そうだ (atsusou da)
疲れていそうだ (tsukareteisou da)
賢そうだ (kashikoso da)
壊れそうだ (kowaresou da)
美味しそうだ (oishisou da)
降りそうだ (furisou da)
丈夫そうだ (joubusou da)
面白そうだ (omoshirosou da)
歩きやすそうだ (arukiyasusou da)
座りにくそうだ (suwarinikusou da)

Conclusion

Mastering 〜そうだ (Appearance) Form is a great way to express observations and predictions based on how things look. Whether describing someone’s emotions, the taste of food, or a future event, this grammar pattern helps make your Japanese sound more natural and fluent.

By understanding its conjugation rules, differences from hearsay 〜そうだ, and special cases, you can use it confidently in daily conversations. Keep practicing with real-life examples, and soon, you’ll be able to describe appearances effortlessly in Japanese!

If you found this guide helpful, feel free to explore more Japanese grammar lessons and keep improving your language skills.

Happy learning! 😊

JAPANESE

Japanese Verb Conjugation: Dictionary, ます, and Negative Forms

Mastering the Japanese Te-Form: A Comprehensive Guide

Mastering the Japanese たい Form: A Comprehensive Guide

Mastering the Expressions of Ability in Japanese