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because; since
Definition
The grammar pattern 'Plain form + ので (Na/N + なので)' is used to express a cause or reason in a polite, objective, and slightly more formal way than 'kara'. It is often used for social excuses or when stating facts. This pattern is suitable for situations where you need to provide a reason or explanation without sounding too personal or commanding. For example, you can use it to explain why you're canceling plans or why you're leaving early. The nuance of this pattern is that it implies a sense of inevitability or a logical consequence, making it a useful tool for expressing polite and objective reasons.
Structure
| Form | Pattern | Example |
|---|---|---|
| Plain form of a verb | Verb form + ので | 見る + ので = 見るので |
| Plain form of a na-adjective | Na-adjective + なので | 大変 + なので = 大変なので |
| Plain form of a noun | Noun + ので (Note: This is less common and may sound unnatural) | 雨 + ので = ? (Not recommended) |
Examples
明日は日曜日なので、銀行は休みです。
Ashita wa nichiyōbi nano de, ginkō wa yasumi desu.
Tomorrow is Sunday, so the bank is closed.
明日は日曜日なので = Tomorrow is Sunday, なので = because
雨が降ってきて、テニスはやめましょう。
Ame ga futte kite, tenisu wa yamemashō.
It's raining, so let's cancel the tennis.
雨が降ってきて = It's raining, なので = because
用事ができて、お先に失礼します。
Yōji ga dekiru node, osaki ni shitsurei shimasu.
I have a prior engagement, so I'll excuse myself.
用事ができて = I have a prior engagement, なので = because
彼は病気なので、病院に連れて行きます。
Kare wa byōki nano de, byōin ni tsurete ikimasu.
He's sick, so we'll take him to the hospital.
彼は病気なので = He's sick, なので = because
Context
This pattern is suitable for polite and objective explanations. It's often used in formal or business settings. Be careful not to use it for strong personal opinions or commands, as it may sound too polite or insincere. Compare it with 'kara' (から), which is more suitable for expressing strong reasons or causes.
Watch out
The correct pattern is 'Na/N + なので', not 'Da + なので'.
This pattern is too polite and objective for strong opinions or commands. Use 'kara' for more assertive expressions.
While both patterns express a reason or explanation, 'no ni' implies a contrast or exception, whereas 'no de' implies a cause or consequence.
Strategy
Pay attention to the nuance of 'no de' (because) vs. 'kara' (from) vs. 'no ni' (although). Practice using 'no de' in polite and objective explanations, and be careful not to use it for strong personal opinions or commands.
In context
Worked examples drawn from JLPT N4 test-style questions. Each sentence shows Plain form + ので (Na/N + なので) used correctly, with a brief note on what the pattern is doing.
明日は日曜日なので、銀行は休みです。
Pattern used: なので
For Nouns like 'nichiyoubi', you must use 'na' before 'node'.
雨が降っているので、テニスはやめましょう。
Pattern used: 降っている
'Node' follows the plain form of verbs to provide an objective reason.
用事があるので、お先に失礼します。
Pattern used: ある
Contrast: 'node' is preferred for polite social excuses over 'kara'.
Interactive
明日は日曜日______、銀行は休みです。
Adaptive practice
Our adaptive engine will quiz you on this grammar pattern and track your progress toward mastery.