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Describing states, appearances, tendencies, and pretense
What each pattern means, when to use it, and the mistakes that cost marks in the exam.
Indicates a certain state or quality that has become natural. Often used for looking mature or looking old (refined/antique).
Common mistakes
Has a negative nuance. Indicates someone is trying to appear more than they are or acting in a way that doesn't fit their true nature.
Common mistakes
A formal or literary expression meaning 'youna'. 'Gotoki' modifies nouns, while 'gotoku' modifies verbs/adjectives. Can also express humility ('me-gotoki').
Common mistakes
Used to point out a negative or undesirable tendency in someone's behavior or a situation. It is not used for positive traits.
Common mistakes
Indicates that something starts to show signs of a certain state or quality. Often used with seasons or abstract nouns like 'nazo' (mystery).
Common mistakes
Used to describe a state where something is almost about to happen. Uses the classical 'n' negative stem, and 'suru' becomes 'sen'.
Common mistakes
Indicates that a state remains unchanged from its original condition. Limited to specific idiomatic expressions like 'umare-nagara' or 'namida-nagara'.
Common mistakes
Indicates leaving something as it is after an action (usually with negative results) or a state continuing for a long time (like standing).
Common mistakes
Used when someone's attitude or action strongly suggests a specific thought or word, without actually saying it. Often follows a quoted thought.
Common mistakes
Expresses an action done without a clear purpose, or an origin that is not clearly specified. Often used as 'V-tomonaku V'.
Common mistakes
Adaptive practice
Our adaptive engine will quiz you on these 10 grammar patterns and track which ones you need to review most.