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Expressing causes, reasons, triggers, and justifications
What each pattern means, when to use it, and the mistakes that cost marks in the exam.
Indicates that an extreme degree of a feeling or state leads to an unintended or abnormal result. Often used with nouns representing emotions like 'odoroki', 'kinchoo', 'kanashimi'.
Common mistakes
Indicates that a single, often small factor caused a disproportionately bad result. Cannot be used for positive outcomes. For Na-adj/N, use 'na/dearu' forms.
Common mistakes
Used to express that a result is natural or even more intense because of a specific reason. Unlike 'node', it emphasizes the special circumstances of the cause. Formed with plain forms; for Na-adj and N, 'na' and 'dearu' can be used.
Common mistakes
Used when a decision, determination, or obligation follows a known fact. The latter part of the sentence often contains 'beki da', 'tsumori da', or commands.
Common mistakes
Used to say that even if A is true, it doesn't necessarily mean B is true or that B should happen. Usually followed by negative expressions like 'kagaranai', 'wake dewa nai'.
Common mistakes
Used to explain a personal reason or provide an excuse for a failure or unexpected situation. 'Mono' is often used by women or children at the end of a sentence in casual speech.
Common mistakes
Indicates that an event or action served as the direct motivation or starting point for a subsequent change or new activity.
Common mistakes
Formal expression used to explain the reason or circumstances leading to a current situation. Often used in business or official reporting.
Common mistakes
Adaptive practice
Our adaptive engine will quiz you on these 8 grammar patterns and track which ones you need to review most.