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Compound verb patterns expressing manner, completion, and continuation
What each pattern means, when to use it, and the mistakes that cost marks in the exam.
Expresses a sudden or outward beginning of an action. It is often used for spontaneous events like 'naki-dasu' (burst into tears) or 'furidasu' (start raining).
Common mistakes
Indicates a reciprocal action where two or more people do something to or with each other. Common examples include 'hanashiau' (discuss) and 'tasukeau' (help each other).
Common mistakes
Indicates that an action has started but is not yet finished, or that someone was just about to do something. It often describes an incomplete state like 'yomikakeru' (start reading but stop midway).
Common mistakes
Expresses that a state has not changed since a specific action occurred, or that something is limited to a single item/person. It often implies 'and nothing else happened' or 'only this'.
Common mistakes
Indicates that an action has been completed entirely or done to the absolute limit. It often conveys a sense of exhaustion or thoroughness, like 'tsukaikiru' (use up completely).
Common mistakes
Indicates moving something into another thing or doing an action thoroughly and deeply. Common with verbs like 'tobikomu' (dive in) or 'kangae-komu' (think deeply).
Common mistakes
Used when an action is repeated in order to correct a mistake or improve the result. It implies 'again' with a focus on fixing something.
Common mistakes
Expresses completing a difficult task through to the end despite obstacles or exhaustion. It carries a strong nuance of effort and persistence, like 'hashirinuku' (run to the very end).
Common mistakes
Used to describe leaving something in an improper or messy state, or continuing a state for an unusually long time. It often carries a negative or critical nuance.
Common mistakes
Shows that an action or state continues without interruption. It focuses on the ongoing nature of the activity over a period of time.
Common mistakes
Adaptive practice
Our adaptive engine will quiz you on these 10 grammar patterns and track which ones you need to review most.