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to redo
Definition
The grammar pattern "V-stem + 直す" is used to convey the idea of redoing an action in order to correct a mistake or improve the result. This implies a sense of 'again' with a focus on fixing something. For example, if you made a mistake on a test, you might say "もう一度書き直す" (mou ichido kaki-nigatsu) to indicate that you want to redo the test to correct your mistakes. This pattern is often used in situations where there is a need to correct or improve something, and it implies a sense of effort or intention to make things right.
Structure
| Form | Pattern | Example |
|---|---|---|
| V-stem (動詞の基本形) | V-stem + 直す | 書き (kaki) + 直す (nigatsu) = 書き直す (kaki-nigatsu) |
| V-stem (動詞の基本形) | V-stem + 直す (with する) | 書く (kaku) + 直す (nigatsu) = 書く直す (kaku-nigatsu) |
| V-stem (動詞の基本形) | V-stem + 直す (with する, with て) | 書く (kaku) + 直す (nigatsu) + て = 書く直して (kaku-nigatsute) |
Examples
間違いが多いので、もう一度書き直すください。
Makoto ga ōi node, mou ichido kaki-nigatsu kudasai.
Please redo the test because there are many mistakes.
間違いが多い (Makoto ga ōi) = there are many mistakes, もう一度 (mou ichido) = again, 書き直す (kaki-nigatsu) = redo
よく考えて、計画を立て直すことにした。
Yoku kangaete, keikaku o tate-nigatsu ni shita.
I decided to redo the plan after careful consideration.
よく考えて (Yoku kangaete) = after careful consideration, 計画を立て (keikaku o tate) = make a plan, 立て直す (tate-nigatsu) = redo the plan
気分を読み直して、新しい本を手に取った。
Kibun o yomi-nigatsute, aratana hon o te ni toratta.
I read the mood again and picked up a new book.
気分を読み (Kibun o yomi) = read the mood, 直して (nigatsute) = again, 新しい本 (aratana hon) = new book, 取った (toratta) = picked up
Context
This pattern is used to convey the idea of redoing an action in order to correct a mistake or improve the result. It is often used in situations where there is a need to correct or improve something, and it implies a sense of effort or intention to make things right. The pattern can be used in formal or informal situations, but it is more commonly used in formal situations.
Watch out
The pattern 書き直す implies a sense of correction or improvement, whereas もういちど simply implies repetition.
The two patterns have different meanings and uses.
The pattern 書き直す implies a sense of physical action, and it may not be suitable for all situations.
Strategy
When using this pattern in the JLPT exam, be sure to use it in a context where there is a need to correct or improve something. Avoid using it for simple repetition or changing something. Also, be careful not to confuse it with other patterns or phrases.
In context
Worked examples drawn from JLPT N3 test-style questions. Each sentence shows V-stem + 直す used correctly, with a brief note on what the pattern is doing.
間違いが多いので、もう一度書き直してください。
Pattern used: 直して
'Kakinaosu' means to write something again to fix errors.
よく考えて、計画を立て直すことにした。
Pattern used: 直す
'Tatenaosu' suggests rebuilding or restructuring a plan for a better outcome.
気分を読み直して、新しい本を手に取った。
Pattern used: 直して
'Yominaosu' usually means to read the same text again, but 'naosu' always carries the 'reset' or 'correction' feel.
Interactive
間違いが多いので、もう一度書き______ください。
Adaptive practice
Our adaptive engine will quiz you on this grammar pattern and track your progress toward mastery.