N3 Grammar: Formal Expressions

Common mistakes

• Using it for the listener's actions (e.g., 'Nani o itashimasu ka?' is wrong for 'What will you do?')
• Confusion with 'itasu' meaning 'to cause' (in limited contexts)
• Forgetting to use it in set phrases like 'Shitsurei itashimasu'

Common mistakes

• Using it in formal situations (it is strictly casual)
• Incorrect conjugation with nouns (forgetting 'da' or 'datta')
• Confusing it with the explanatory '~n da' pattern

Common mistakes

• Using the 'o' prefix with verbs that require 'go' (e.g., o-chuui instead of go-chuui)
• Using this pattern for humble actions performed by the speaker
• Mixing up with the command form '~nasai'

Common mistakes

• Mixing with the humble form 'o ~ suru' when referring to the listener's actions
• Using it with special honorific verbs like 'irassharu' (should not say 'o-iki ni naru')
• Using it for one's own actions

Common mistakes

• Using it for the listener's actions (which is insulting as it humbles the listener)
• Using it for actions that don't relate to the person being respected
• Using it with verbs that have special humble forms like 'moushu-ageru'

Common mistakes

• Overusing this pattern for simple actions that don't require permission
• Incorrect causative conjugation (e.g., 'kaera-sasete' vs 'kaera-sete')
• Using it when 'o ~ suru' would be more natural