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Tag: passive voice in Japanese
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Mastering 〜によって in Japanese | My Language Classes
How to Use 〜によって in Japanese
Are you wondering what the phrase 「〜によって」 really means in Japanese? Have you come across it in books, anime, or conversations and felt unsure about how to use it? It is a must-know grammar pattern for JLPT N3–N2 learners and worth knowing even at N4 level. Don’t worry—you’re in the right place!
In this blog post, we’ll take a deep dive into one of the most versatile grammar points in Japanese: 〜によって. This powerful expression can help you talk about causes, methods, agents of actions, and even how things can differ depending on the situation.
Understanding how and when to use 〜によって can greatly improve your Japanese fluency, especially in written and formal contexts. Whether you’re a beginner trying to build strong grammar foundations or an advanced learner polishing your skills, this guide is built for you.
By the end of this post, you’ll be able to confidently:
- Use 〜によって in real-life sentences.
- Avoid common mistakes.
- Understand all the grammar rules and exceptions around this phrase.
- Practice what you’ve learned with fun and clear exercises.
Let’s get started!
📚 Common Expressions with 〜によって
The grammar structure 〜によって is one of those multi-purpose tools in Japanese that pops up in many useful expressions. It often appears in formal speech, writing, news reports, and business contexts, but you’ll also find it in everyday Japanese, depending on the situation.
Here are some of the most common and useful expressions with 〜によって:
🔹 Basic Patterns and Expressions
Expression Meaning Example 〜によって depending on / due to / by means of 状況によって対応が変わる。
Joukyou ni yotte taiou ga kawaru.
→ The response changes depending on the situation.〜によっては in some cases / depending on 人によっては考え方が違う。
Hito ni yotte wa kangaekata ga chigau.
→ Some people think differently.〜による + noun caused by / due to / related to 台風による被害が大きい。
Taifuu ni yoru higai ga ookii.
→ The damage caused by the typhoon is severe.〜によって決まる decided by / determined by 成功は努力によって決まる。
Seikou wa doryoku ni yotte kimaru.
→ Success is determined by effort.〜によって異なる differ depending on 国によって文化が異なる。
Kuni ni yotte bunka ga kotonaru.
→ Cultures differ depending on the country.〜によっては〜こともある there are cases where… 日によっては開いていないこともある。
Hi ni yotte wa aiteinai koto mo aru.
→ There are days when it’s not open.
🔸 Real-Life Scenarios
Here are a few real-life contexts where these expressions show up:
- News headlines: 地震による被害 (Damage caused by the earthquake)
- Formal reports: 研究によって証明された (Proven through research)
- Daily conversation: 人によってはそれを好まない (Some people don’t like that)
Using these expressions will help you sound more natural and advanced in Japanese, especially when talking about cause and effect, change, or variation.
🧭 Usage: When to Use 〜によって in Japanese Sentences
The phrase 〜によって might look simple at first glance, but it plays many important roles in Japanese. It’s mainly used to express the agent, cause, means, method, basis, or dependence. Below are the main situations where you should use 〜によって, each explained with clear examples and meanings.
1. ✅ To Show the Agent of an Action (Usually in passive voice)
Used when someone does something, especially in passive sentences.
🟩 Example:
この本は有名な作家によって書かれました。
Kono hon wa yuumei na sakka ni yotte kakaremashita.
→ This book was written by a famous author.
2. ✅ To Indicate the Cause or Reason
Used to say something happened due to or because of something.
🟩 Example:
地震によって建物が壊れた。
Jishin ni yotte tatemono ga kowareta.
→ The building was destroyed due to the earthquake.
3. ✅ To Show the Means or Method
Used when something is done by using a method, tool, or system.
🟩 Example:
インターネットによって情報を得る。
Intānetto ni yotte jouhou o eru.
→ Get information through the internet.
4. ✅ To Express Dependence or Variation
Used to say something depends on something else or varies based on the situation.
🟩 Example:
人によって意見が違う。
Hito ni yotte iken ga chigau.
→ Opinions differ depending on the person.
5. ✅ To Introduce a Basis for Judgment or Evaluation
Used to express what something is judged or decided by.
🟩 Example:
成績によってクラスが決まる。
Seiseki ni yotte kurasu ga kimaru.
→ The class is decided based on grades.
6. ✅ To Emphasize Change Depending on Situation
Used with expressions like によっては to show that something may or may not happen depending on the case.
🟩 Example:
場合によっては中止することもあります。
Baai ni yotte wa chuushi suru koto mo arimasu.
→ We may cancel it depending on the case.
📝 Quick Recap — You can use 〜によって to:
- Show who did something (agent)
- Explain why something happened (cause)
- Describe how something was done (method)
- Show differences or variations
- Talk about rules and decisions based on something
- Express cases where outcomes may change
🔄 Conjugation of 〜によって with Verbs, Nouns, and Adjectives
The structure 〜によって is quite straightforward to use in terms of conjugation. Since によって attaches to nouns, your focus should be on how to turn verbs and adjectives into noun-like forms so that they can be used with this grammar.
Here’s a clear breakdown of how to use 〜によって with different parts of speech:
🟢 1. Verbs (All types)
Verbs need to be converted into their noun (plain) form, also known as the dictionary form, or the -masu stem, depending on the meaning.
a) Passive form + によって (To show the agent)
This is the most common pattern when you want to show who did an action.
🔹 Example (Group 1 Verb – 書く / kaku):
この詩は先生によって書かれました。
Kono shi wa sensei ni yotte kakaremashita.
→ This poem was written by the teacher.🔹 Example (Group 2 Verb – 食べる / taberu):
料理は母によって作られた。
Ryouri wa haha ni yotte tsukurareta.
→ The food was made by my mother.🔹 Example (Irregular Verb – する / suru):
計画は会社によって実行された。
Keikaku wa kaisha ni yotte jikkou sareta.
→ The plan was carried out by the company.
🔵 2. Nouns + によって
This is the default and easiest usage. Just add によって directly after a noun.
🔹 Example:
法律によって決まっています。
Houritsu ni yotte kimatte imasu.
→ It is decided by law.
🟣 3. い-Adjectives
い-adjectives are rarely used directly with によって. Instead, use a noun-based sentence or restructure to fit the expression.
🔹 Example (rephrased as noun):
その人の優しさ****によって助けられた。
Sono hito no yasashisa ni yotte tasukerareta.
→ I was saved because of that person’s kindness.
🟠 4. な-Adjectives
Just like い-adjectives, you should nominalize the adjective by adding 〜さ or use a related noun.
🔹 Example:
彼の真面目さ****によって信頼された。
Kare no majimesa ni yotte shinrai sareta.
→ He was trusted because of his seriousness.
✨ Bonus Tip: よって vs. によって
- によって is more standard and formal.
- よって is a more literary or written form, often used in official documents.
🔹 Example:
この規則は校長の命令によって変更された。
Kono kisoku wa kouchou no meirei ni yotte henkou sareta.
→ This rule was changed by the principal’s order.
📏 Grammar Rules for Using 〜によって in Japanese
Understanding the grammar rules behind 〜によって will help you use it with accuracy and confidence. While the phrase may seem simple, there are important nuances that determine when and how it’s used.
Here are the most important grammar rules to keep in mind:
✅ Rule 1: によって Must Attach to a Noun
The phrase によって always connects directly to a noun. If you’re using a verb or adjective, you need to nominalize it first (turn it into a noun form).
🔹 Example:
努力によって成功した。
Doryoku ni yotte seikou shita.
→ Succeeded through effort.
✅ Rule 2: Often Paired with Passive Sentences (〜られる form)
When expressing the agent (doer) of an action, 〜によって is used with passive voice.
🔹 Example:
この映画は有名な監督によって作られた。
Kono eiga wa yuumei na kantoku ni yotte tsukurareta.
→ This movie was made by a famous director.
✅ Rule 3: によって Has Multiple Meanings Based on Context
The exact meaning of 〜によって changes depending on the context:
- Cause or reason → “because of”
- Method or means → “by means of”
- Agent → “by (someone)”
- Basis → “based on”
- Variation or dependency → “depending on”
Always read the full sentence to decide how to translate and interpret it.
🔹 Example:
天気によって服を変える。
Tenki ni yotte fuku o kaeru.
→ I change clothes depending on the weather.
✅ Rule 4: によって is a Formal Expression
This structure is more common in formal, written, or academic settings. In casual conversation, Japanese speakers may use simpler expressions like:
- 〜で (by/with)
- 〜から (from)
- 〜に (to/for)
But for clear, formal writing or polite conversation, によって is preferred.
🔹 Casual: 電話で連絡する。
🔹 Formal: 電話によって連絡する。
✅ Rule 5: によっては (によって + は)
The phrase によっては introduces specific examples or exceptions and is often followed by 〜こともある, showing possible variations or special cases.
🔹 Example:
人によっては納豆が好きじゃない。
Hito ni yotte wa nattou ga suki janai.
→ Some people don’t like natto.
✅ Rule 6: による + Noun (Attributive Use)
When modifying a noun, change によって to による. It works like an adjective or descriptor.
🔹 Example:
地震による遅れ
Jishin ni yoru okure
→ Delay due to the earthquake
✨ Helpful Grammar Pattern Summary:
Pattern Meaning Example Noun + によって By / Due to / Depending on 雨によって試合が中止された。 Noun + によっては In some cases / Depending on 店によっては安く買える。 Noun + による + Noun (Attributive) 台風による停電があった。
⚠️ Things to Keep in Mind When Using 〜によって
While 〜によって is a highly useful and flexible grammar structure in Japanese, it’s also easy to misunderstand or use incorrectly—especially for learners. Here are some common pitfalls, nuances, and exceptions you should remember to keep your Japanese natural and accurate.
🔍 1. Don’t Confuse によって with に or で
These particles can sometimes look similar in meaning, but they’re not always interchangeable.
Expression Meaning Example によって By means of / depending on / caused by インターネットによって調べた。
→ I researched through the internet.に Indicates direction or goal インターネットにつながる。
→ Connect to the internet.で Indicates the place or tool of action インターネットで調べた。
→ I searched on the internet.✅ Tip:
- Use によって when you’re talking about how or why something happens.
- Use で when you mean where or with what something is done.
- Use に when you talk about destination or targets.
🚫 2. によって is Rare in Casual Daily Conversation
While correct, using によって in everyday speech might sound overly formal or unnatural in casual talk.
✅ Use in:
- Essays
- Reports
- News
- Presentations
❌ Avoid in:
- Text messages
- Friendly chats
- Daily life talks (unless you’re going for a formal tone)
🤔 3. “による” Sounds Fancy—Use It with Nouns
When you use による + noun, you’re linking the cause or method as a descriptor.
🟩 Example:
事故による遅延
Jiko ni yoru chien
→ Delay caused by an accidentBe careful not to confuse this with a simple sentence using によって. The difference is:
- によって = acts as a phrase in the sentence.
- による = modifies a noun (like an adjective).
🔁 4. によっては Implies Variation or Exceptions
If you’re talking about things that differ or vary depending on the situation, use によっては.
🟩 Example:
天気によってはキャンセルになるかもしれない。
Tenki ni yotte wa kyanseru ni naru kamo shirenai.
→ Depending on the weather, it might be canceled.⚠️ Don’t use によって alone in these cases—you need the は to highlight the specific situation.
❗ 5. によって Can Have Multiple Meanings in the Same Sentence
This is rare but important. Sometimes, one sentence can suggest more than one meaning, so read carefully or provide enough context.
🟩 Example:
彼は努力によって先生によって選ばれた。
Kare wa doryoku ni yotte sensei ni yotte erabareta.
→ He was chosen because of his effort and by the teacher.
✍️ 6. Nominalization is Key with Verbs and Adjectives
To use によって correctly, verbs and adjectives must be turned into noun forms.
- 助ける → 助け(help)
- 優しい → 優しさ(kindness)
🟩 Example:
彼の優しさによって、私は救われた。
Kare no yasashisa ni yotte, watashi wa sukuwareta.
→ I was saved by his kindness.
🚫 Common Mistakes with 〜によって and How to Avoid Them
Many learners misuse 〜によって because of its formal tone and multiple meanings. Let’s clear up the confusion with real examples, and teach you how to stay on track.
❌ Mistake 1: Using によって in Casual Speech
Why it’s wrong:
〜によって is too formal for most casual conversations. Using it in everyday speech can sound robotic or unnatural.Wrong:
昨日、彼によって来たよ。
Kinou, kare ni yotte kita yo.
(Too stiff and unnatural)✅ Correct Casual Version:
昨日、彼が来たよ。
Kinou, kare ga kita yo.
→ He came yesterday.How to avoid it:
Use によって for writing, presentations, or formal settings. Use が, で, or から in speech.
❌ Mistake 2: Forgetting Passive Form in Agent Sentences
Why it’s wrong:
When you use 〜によって to show who did something, the verb must be in passive form.Wrong:
この本は先生によって書く。
Kono hon wa sensei ni yotte kaku.
(Grammatically incorrect)✅ Correct:
この本は先生によって書かれた。
Kono hon wa sensei ni yotte kakareta.
→ This book was written by the teacher.How to avoid it:
Check if your verb should be in the passive (〜られる) form when using によって to show “by someone.”
❌ Mistake 3: Mixing Up によって and で or に
Why it’s wrong:
While they might seem similar, these particles have different roles in a sentence.Wrong:
私は電車によって行った。
Watashi wa densha ni yotte itta.
(Awkward and unnatural)✅ Correct:
私は電車で行った。
Watashi wa densha de itta.
→ I went by train.How to avoid it:
Use で when you’re talking about transportation or tools in daily speech. Use によって in more formal writing.
❌ Mistake 4: Using によって Without Context
Why it’s wrong:
Sometimes learners add によって without clearly showing what it refers to, making the sentence confusing.Wrong:
結果が変わったによって。
Kekka ga kawatta ni yotte.
(Sentence structure is broken)✅ Correct:
天気によって結果が変わった。
Tenki ni yotte kekka ga kawatta.
→ The result changed depending on the weather.How to avoid it:
Always make sure that によって is connected to a clear noun that gives context.
❌ Mistake 5: Forgetting to Use よる When Modifying a Noun
Why it’s wrong:
When using によって directly before a noun, you should change it to による.Wrong:
地震によって被害
Jishin ni yotte higai
(Sounds like a sentence, not a phrase)✅ Correct:
地震による被害
Jishin ni yoru higai
→ Damage caused by the earthquakeHow to avoid it:
Use による + noun when you want to say “___-related” or “caused by ___”.
❌ Mistake 6: Using によっては Without ~こともある or Similar Ending
Why it’s wrong:
によっては is used to show variation or exceptions, but you need to follow it with a phrase that shows possibility.Wrong:
人によっては。
Hito ni yotte wa.
(Feels incomplete)✅ Correct:
人によっては考え方が違うこともある。
Hito ni yotte wa kangaekata ga chigau koto mo aru.
→ Depending on the person, ways of thinking can differ.How to avoid it:
When using によっては, follow up with something like:- ~こともある
- ~場合もある
- ~可能性がある
📚 Example Sentences Using 〜によって
- この建物は有名な建築家によって設計されました。
(Kono tatemono wa yuumei na kenchikuka ni yotte sekkei saremashita.)
→ This building was designed by a famous architect. - 努力によって夢を叶えることができる。
(Doryoku ni yotte yume o kanaeru koto ga dekiru.)
→ You can achieve your dreams through effort. - この薬は年齢によって効果が変わります。
(Kono kusuri wa nenrei ni yotte kouka ga kawarimasu.)
→ The effect of this medicine changes depending on age. - 先生によって授業の進め方が違う。
(Sensei ni yotte jugyou no susumekata ga chigau.)
→ The way classes are taught differs depending on the teacher. - 台風によって試合が中止された。
(Taifuu ni yotte shiai ga chuushi sareta.)
→ The match was canceled due to the typhoon. - 新しい技術によって生産性が上がった。
(Atarashii gijutsu ni yotte seisansei ga agatta.)
→ Productivity improved thanks to new technology. - この詩は学生によって書かれた。
(Kono shi wa gakusei ni yotte kakareta.)
→ This poem was written by a student. - 文化によって考え方は大きく異なる。
(Bunka ni yotte kangaekata wa ookiku kotonaru.)
→ Ways of thinking vary greatly depending on culture. - 人によって好みが違います。
(Hito ni yotte konomi ga chigaimasu.)
→ Preferences differ from person to person. - この仕事はAIによって代替される可能性がある。
(Kono shigoto wa AI ni yotte daitai sareru kanousei ga aru.)
→ This job may be replaced by AI. - 結果は練習によって変わる。
(Kekka wa renshuu ni yotte kawaru.)
→ Results change based on practice. - 都市によって生活費が異なる。
(Toshi ni yotte seikatsuhi ga kotonaru.)
→ Living costs vary depending on the city. - 事故によって電車が遅れた。
(Jiko ni yotte densha ga okureta.)
→ The train was delayed due to the accident. - 使用方法によって効果が変わります。
(Shiyou houhou ni yotte kouka ga kawarimasu.)
→ The effect changes based on how it’s used. - 彼はその発言によって問題を起こした。
(Kare wa sono hatsugen ni yotte mondai o okoshita.)
→ He caused trouble because of that statement. - 対応はケースによって異なります。
(Taiou wa keesu ni yotte kotonarimasu.)
→ The response differs depending on the case. - 天気によっては出かけないこともある。
(Tenki ni yotte wa dekakenai koto mo aru.)
→ I sometimes don’t go out depending on the weather. - 表現によって意味が変わることがある。
(Hyougen ni yotte imi ga kawaru koto ga aru.)
→ The meaning can change based on the expression. - 地域によって方言が違う。
(Chiiki ni yotte hougen ga chigau.)
→ Dialects differ by region. - 手段によって結果が大きく変わる。
(Shudan ni yotte kekka ga ookiku kawaru.)
→ The result can change greatly depending on the method.
🔁 Translation Exercise: Mastering 〜によって
A translation exercise is a great way to boost both comprehension and active use of the grammar point 〜によって.
✍️ Part 1: Translate the following English sentences into Japanese (using 〜によって)
- This painting was created by a child.
- The meeting was canceled due to the typhoon.
- The result changed depending on the method.
- These rules may vary depending on the country.
- Many jobs may be replaced by robots.
- The city was destroyed by a large earthquake.
- His opinion changed due to personal experience.
- The taste of the dish changes based on the ingredients.
- The book was written by a famous professor.
- The mood of the room shifted because of her words.
✍️ Part 2: Translate the following Japanese sentences into English
- この絵は学生によって描かれました。
(Kono e wa gakusei ni yotte kakaremashita.) - 天候によってイベントが中止されました。
(Tenkou ni yotte ibento ga chuushi saremashita.) - 地域によって言葉が異なります。
(Chiiki ni yotte kotoba ga kotonarimasu.) - 事故によって道路が混んでいます。
(Jiko ni yotte douro ga kondeimasu.) - その物語は実話によって書かれました。
(Sono monogatari wa jitsuwa ni yotte kakaremashita.) - 人によって考え方が違います。
(Hito ni yotte kangaekata ga chigaimasu.) - この映画は実際の事件によって作られました。
(Kono eiga wa jissai no jiken ni yotte tsukuraremashita.) - 練習によって技術が上達します。
(Renshuu ni yotte gijutsu ga joutatsu shimasu.) - 時間によって混雑の程度が変わります。
(Jikan ni yotte konzatsu no teido ga kawarimasu.) - このレポートは調査結果によってまとめられました。
(Kono repooto wa chousa kekka ni yotte matomeraremashita.)
✅ Answer Key: Translation Exercise for 〜によって
Here’s the full Answer Key to the translation exercise, with clear and accurate translations for all 20 questions — including romaji and natural English expressions.
🗣️ Part 1: English ➡️ Japanese
- This painting was created by a child.
この絵は子供によって作られました。
(Kono e wa kodomo ni yotte tsukuraremashita.) - The meeting was canceled due to the typhoon.
台風によって会議は中止されました。
(Taifuu ni yotte kaigi wa chuushi saremashita.) - The result changed depending on the method.
方法によって結果が変わりました。
(Houhou ni yotte kekka ga kawarimashita.) - These rules may vary depending on the country.
これらのルールは国によって異なる場合があります。
(Korera no ruuru wa kuni ni yotte kotonaru baai ga arimasu.) - Many jobs may be replaced by robots.
多くの仕事はロボットによって代替されるかもしれません。
(Ooku no shigoto wa robotto ni yotte daitai sareru kamoshiremasen.) - The city was destroyed by a large earthquake.
その都市は大きな地震によって壊滅しました。
(Sono toshi wa ookina jishin ni yotte kaimetsu shimashita.) - His opinion changed due to personal experience.
個人的な経験によって彼の意見が変わりました。
(Kojinteki na keiken ni yotte kare noiken ga kawarimashita.) - The taste of the dish changes based on the ingredients.
料理の味は材料によって変わります。
(Ryouri no aji wa zairyou ni yotte kawarimasu.) - The book was written by a famous professor.
その本は有名な教授によって書かれました。
(Sono hon wa yuumei na kyouju ni yotte kakaremashita.) - The mood of the room shifted because of her words.
彼女の言葉によって部屋の雰囲気が変わりました。
(Kanojo no kotoba ni yotte heya no fun’iki ga kawarimashita.)
🗣️ Part 2: Japanese ➡️ English
- この絵は学生によって描かれました。
(Kono e wa gakusei ni yotte kakaremashita.)
→ This painting was drawn by a student. - 天候によってイベントが中止されました。
(Tenkou ni yotte ibento ga chuushi saremashita.)
→ The event was canceled due to the weather. - 地域によって言葉が異なります。
(Chiiki ni yotte kotoba ga kotonarimasu.)
→ Language differs depending on the region. - 事故によって道路が混んでいます。
(Jiko ni yotte douro ga kondeimasu.)
→ The road is crowded due to an accident. - その物語は実話によって書かれました。
(Sono monogatari wa jitsuwa ni yotte kakaremashita.)
→ The story was written based on a true story. - 人によって考え方が違います。
(Hito ni yotte kangaekata ga chigaimasu.)
→ Ways of thinking differ from person to person. - この映画は実際の事件によって作られました。
(Kono eiga wa jissai no jiken ni yotte tsukuraremashita.)
→ This movie was made based on a real incident. - 練習によって技術が上達します。
(Renshuu ni yotte gijutsu ga joutatsu shimasu.)
→ Skills improve through practice. - 時間によって混雑の程度が変わります。
(Jikan ni yotte konzatsu no teido ga kawarimasu.)
→ The level of crowding changes depending on the time. - このレポートは調査結果によってまとめられました。
(Kono repooto wa chousa kekka ni yotte matomeraremashita.)
→ This report was compiled based on the research results.
✅ Summary: Key Takeaways about 〜によって
- 〜によって is used to express:
- Agent of an action (usually in passive sentences): “by someone”
- Cause or reason: “due to / because of”
- Means or method: “through / by means of”
- Dependence or variation: “depending on / according to”
- Follows nouns (no conjugation needed).
- Can be used with:
- People or organizations (for passive agents)
- Events, tools, methods (for cause/method)
- Abstract factors (like opinions, personalities, time, weather, etc.)
- Common patterns:
- ~によって+passive verb
- ~によっては (in some cases)
- ~は~によって違う / 変わる (differs/changes depending on)
- Tricky points:
- Often interchangeable with で or から, but more formal and specific
- Not used with personal actions in casual speech
- Often seen in written or formal contexts
- Avoid these mistakes:
- Using によって with active voice when passive is needed
- Using it to describe one’s own actions directly
- Overusing it when simpler alternatives (like で) are more natural
🏁 Conclusion: Master 〜によって and Boost Your Japanese Fluency!
Understanding how to use 〜によって can seriously level up your Japanese skills — especially when reading news, listening to formal speech, or expressing cause and effect in writing. This grammar point connects ideas clearly and adds depth to your communication. Whether you’re talking about changes, reasons, or passive actions, mastering 〜によって will help you speak with clarity and confidence.
Keep reviewing, practicing translations, and building your own example sentences. And remember — language learning is a journey, not a race. You’re doing great!
If you enjoyed this lesson, be sure to check out more posts like this on my blog at My Language Classes. Don’t forget to subscribe my YouTube channel and follow me on Instagram for the latest language learning tips and lessons. Leave a comment below to share your thoughts, or ask any questions you have about nouns.
Happy learning! 😊
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Causative-Passive Form of verbs in Japanese | My Language Classes
Causative-Passive Form in Japanese
The causative-passive form (使役受身, shieki ukemi) in Japanese is an important grammatical structure that conveys a sense of being forced or made to do something against one’s will. This form is frequently used in formal speech, written language, and storytelling.
Formation of Causative-Passive Verbs
To form the causative-passive form, we first conjugate the verb into its causative form and then change it into its passive form.
Group 1 (Ichidan) Verbs
- Convert the verb to its causative form:
- Drop る and add させる (for positive causative)
- Convert the causative form to its passive form:
- Drop る and add られる
Example:
- 食べる (たべる, taberu) → 食べさせる (たべさせる, tabesaseru) → 食べさせられる (たべさせられる, tabesaserareru)
Group 2 (Godan) Verbs
- Convert the verb to its causative form:
- Change the u sound to a and add せる
- Convert the causative form to its passive form:
- Change せる to せられる or される
Example:
- 書く (かく, kaku) → 書かせる (かかせる, kakaseru) → 書かせられる (かかせられる, kakaserareru)
Group 3 (Irregular) Verbs
- する → させる → させられる
- くる → こさせる → こさせられる
Usage of the Causative-Passive Form
The causative-passive form is primarily used in the following situations:
- Expressing Forced Action
- “I was made to do something.”
- Indicating an Unwanted Situation
- “I ended up in an unfavorable situation.”
- In Formal Writing & Passive Expressions
- Commonly used in news articles, literature, and business settings.
- Indirect Authority or Control
- Used when talking about school, work, or hierarchical relationships.
- Apologizing or Explaining a Difficult Situation
- “I was put in a tough spot.”
List of Causative-Passive Verbs with Examples
Verb Causative-Passive Form Example Sentence 1 Romaji English Meaning Example Sentence 2 Romaji English Meaning 書く (kaku) 書かせられる (kakaserareru) 先生に作文を書かせられた。 Sensei ni sakubun o kakaserareta. I was forced to write an essay by the teacher. 上司にレポートを書かせられた。 Joushi ni repooto o kakaserareta. I was made to write a report by my boss. 食べる (taberu) 食べさせられる (tabesaserareru) 嫌いな野菜を食べさせられた。 Kirai na yasai o tabesaserareta. I was made to eat vegetables I dislike. 子供のころ、嫌いな魚を食べさせられた。 Kodomo no koro, kirai na sakana o tabesaserareta. When I was a child, I was made to eat fish I disliked. 話す (hanasu) 話させられる (hanasaserareru) 上司に長いスピーチを話させられた。 Joushi ni nagai supiichi o hanasaserareta. I was made to give a long speech by my boss. 友達に嘘を話させられた。 Tomodachi ni uso o hanasaserareta. I was forced to tell a lie by my friend. 読む (yomu) 読まさせられる (yomasaserareru) 先生に長い本を読まさせられた。 Sensei ni nagai hon o yomasaserareta. I was forced to read a long book by the teacher. 上司に新聞を読まさせられた。 Joushi ni shinbun o yomasaserareta. I was made to read the newspaper by my boss. 行く (iku) 行かさせられる (ikasaserareru) 先生に学校に行かさせられた。 Sensei ni gakkou ni ikasaserareta. I was made to go to school by the teacher. 父に病院に行かさせられた。 Chichi ni byouin ni ikasaserareta. I was forced to go to the hospital by my father. More Example Sentences
- 先生に漢字を100回書かせられた。
Sensei ni kanji o hyakkai kakaserareta.
I was forced to write kanji 100 times by the teacher. - 母に部屋を掃除させられた。
Haha ni heya o souji saserareta.
I was made to clean my room by my mother. - 部長に遅くまで働かさせられた。 Buchou ni osoku made hatarakasaserareta. I was made to work late by my manager.
- 先生に難しい問題を解かさせられた。 Sensei ni muzukashii mondai o tokasaserareta. I was forced to solve a difficult problem by the teacher.
- 親に謝らさせられた。 Oya ni ayamarasaserareta. I was made to apologize by my parents.
Conclusion
The causative-passive form is a useful grammatical structure for expressing situations where someone is forced to act against their will. While it is more common in written and formal contexts, mastering this form will greatly enhance your Japanese comprehension and expression skills. Keep practicing with different verbs and real-life situations to fully grasp the nuances of this construction!
If you enjoyed this lesson, be sure to check out more posts like this on my blog at My Language Classes. Don’t forget to subscribe my YouTube channel and follow me on Instagram for the latest language learning tips and lessons. Leave a comment below to share your thoughts, or ask any questions you have about nouns.
Happy learning! 😊
- Convert the verb to its causative form:
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Passive Form of Verbs in Japanese | My Language Classes
Understanding Passive Form in Japanese
The passive form (受身形, うけみけい) in Japanese is used in various situations, primarily to describe actions where the subject is affected by someone else’s actions. Unlike in English, where the passive voice is often avoided, Japanese frequently uses it in daily conversations and formal writing. In this blog post, we will thoroughly explore the formation and usage of passive verbs in different contexts.
Usage of Passive Form in Japanese
The passive form is used in the following situations:
- When someone is negatively affected by an action (被害受身 – ひがいうけみ)
- Japanese: 私は弟にケーキを食べられました。
- Romaji: Watashi wa otōto ni kēki o taberaremashita.
- Meaning: I had my cake eaten by my younger brother.
- When describing an event from the perspective of the affected person
- Japanese: 私は先生にほめられました。
- Romaji: Watashi wa sensei ni homeraremashita.
- Meaning: I was praised by my teacher.
- When discussing historical or public events
- Japanese: このお寺は100年前に建てられました。
- Romaji: Kono otera wa hyaku nen mae ni tateraremashita.
- Meaning: This temple was built 100 years ago.
- When avoiding mentioning the doer explicitly (formal, impersonal expressions)
- Japanese: 日本ではお米が多く食べられています。
- Romaji: Nihon de wa okome ga ōku taberareteimasu.
- Meaning: Rice is widely eaten in Japan.
- When talking about natural phenomena
- Japanese: その山は雪で覆われています。
- Romaji: Sono yama wa yuki de ōwareteimasu.
- Meaning: That mountain is covered with snow.
- In literary or poetic expressions
- Japanese: 彼女の歌は世界中で聞かれています。
- Romaji: Kanojo no uta wa sekaijū de kikareteimasu.
- Meaning: Her songs are heard all over the world.
Formation of Passive Verbs
Japanese verbs are categorized into three groups. The passive form is formed differently for each group.
Group 1 (Ichidan verbs / 一段動詞)
Formation: Drop the final る and add られる
Verb Potential Form Passive Form Example Sentence (Japanese) Romaji Meaning 食べる (たべる) 食べられる 食べられる 私は友達にお菓子を食べられた。 Watashi wa tomodachi ni okashi o taberareta. I had my sweets eaten by a friend. 見る (みる) 見られる 見られる 私の秘密はみんなに見られた。 Watashi no himitsu wa minna ni mirareta. My secret was seen by everyone. 教える (おしえる) 教えられる 教えられる 日本語は先生に教えられた。 Nihongo wa sensei ni oshierareta. Japanese was taught by the teacher. Group 2 (Godan verbs / 五段動詞)
Formation: Change the final u sound to a sound and add れる
Verb Potential Form Passive Form Example Sentence (Japanese) Romaji Meaning 書く (かく) 書ける 書かれる 私の名前が黒板に書かれた。 Watashi no namae ga kokuban ni kakareta. My name was written on the blackboard. 読む (よむ) 読める 読まれる この本は多くの人に読まれた。 Kono hon wa ōku no hito ni yomareta. This book was read by many people. 言う (いう) 言える 言われる 先生に「すごい」と言われた。 Sensei ni “sugoi” to iwareta. I was told “amazing” by the teacher. Group 3 (Irregular verbs / 不規則動詞)
Verb Potential Form Passive Form Example Sentence (Japanese) Romaji Meaning する できる される 彼の仕事は上司に評価された。 Kare no shigoto wa jōshi ni hyōka sareta. His work was evaluated by the boss. 来る (くる) 来られる 来られる 私の家に友達が来られた。 Watashi no ie ni tomodachi ga korareta. A friend came to my house.
More Example Sentences
- 彼は友達にからかわれた。 (Kare wa tomodachi ni karakawareta.) – He was teased by his friends.
- 雨が降って、試合が中止された。 (Ame ga futte, shiai ga chūshi sareta.) – The match was canceled due to rain.
- 私の自転車が盗まれた。 (Watashi no jitensha ga nusumareta.) – My bicycle was stolen.
- その映画は世界中で見られている。 (Sono eiga wa sekaijū de mirareteiru.) – The movie is being watched worldwide.
- 彼は先生に叱られた。 (Kare wa sensei ni shikarareta.) – He was scolded by the teacher.
- この本は多くの人に読まれた。 (Kono hon wa ōku no hito ni yomareta.) – This book was read by many people.
- 先生に質問が聞かれた。 (Sensei ni shitsumon ga kikareta.) – A question was asked by the teacher.
- 日本では魚がよく食べられる。 (Nihon de wa sakana ga yoku taberareru.) – Fish is often eaten in Japan.
- その話は新聞に書かれていた。 (Sono hanashi wa shinbun ni kakareteita.) – That story was written in the newspaper.
- 彼の名前は歴史に残されている。 (Kare no namae wa rekishi ni nokosareteiru.) – His name is left in history.
Fill in the Blanks Exercise:
- 私の名前が黒板に____。
- 先生にほめ____。
- 私は友達にお弁当を____。
- その建物は100年前に____。
- その映画はたくさんの人に____。
- 宿題が____。
- 彼は友達に____。
- その話は新聞に____。
- 日本では魚がよく____。
- 彼の仕事は上司に____。
Answers:
- 書かれた 2. られた 3. 食べられた 4. 建てられた 5. 見られた 6. された 7. からかわれた 8. 書かれた 9. 食べられる 10. 評価された
Things to Keep in Mind
- Passive verbs often imply an indirect effect on the subject.
- Passive form is commonly used in formal writing and polite speech.
- Certain verbs are more frequently used in passive form, such as 言う (to say), 書く (to write), and する (to do).
- When the subject is negatively affected, the nuance of 被害受身 (negative passive) comes into play.
- Passive sentences often omit the doer (agent) for a softer, indirect tone.
Conclusion
Mastering the passive form of verbs in Japanese is crucial for fluency and understanding natural speech patterns. It is widely used in both formal and informal contexts. By practicing passive verb conjugations and understanding their nuanced usage, learners can improve their comprehension and communication skills in Japanese effectively. Keep practicing and using these forms in daily conversation to become more proficient!
If you enjoyed this lesson, be sure to check out more posts like this on my blog at My Language Classes. Don’t forget to subscribe my YouTube channel and follow me on Instagram for the latest language learning tips and lessons. Leave a comment below to share your thoughts, or ask any questions you have about nouns.
Happy learning! 😊
- When someone is negatively affected by an action (被害受身 – ひがいうけみ)