JLPT N3 Grammar

A sentence-ending particle, primarily used by men, to add casual emphasis or state something as obvious. Similar to a more masculine version of よ. (e.g., そんなこと、知ってるさ。 - I know that, of course.)

A filler word used in casual speech, similar to "like" or "you know" in English. It breaks up sentences and adds a very informal tone. (e.g., 昨日さ、面白い映画を見たんだ。 - Yesterday, you know, I saw an interesting movie.)

An interjection used at the beginning of an action or statement, meaning "well then," "come on," or "all right." (e.g., さあ、始めましょうか。 - All right, shall we begin?)

Expresses that a result is contrary to what was expected, meaning "even though" or "despite." Often carries a nuance of frustration or surprise. (e.g., 勉強したのに、試験に落ちた。 - Even though I studied, I failed the test.)

Used to define or identify something. It connects a name or title to the thing itself, meaning "called" or "named." (e.g., 田中さんという人から電話がありました。 - There was a phone call from a person called Tanaka.)

Indicates that an action has just recently been completed from the speaker's perspective. (e.g., さっき昼ご飯を食べたばかりです。 - I just ate lunch a moment ago.)

Emphasizes the noun preceding it, adding the meaning of "precisely," "definitely," or "for sure." (e.g., 今年こそ、日本語が上手になるように頑張ります。 - This year for sure, I will do my best to become good at Japanese.)

Indicates a decision made by the speaker on their own initiative. (e.g., 明日からジョギングすることにする。 - I've decided to start jogging from tomorrow.)

A formal way of saying 「ないで」, meaning "without doing" something. (e.g., 彼は何も言わずに部屋を出ていった。 - He left the room without saying anything.) Note: for する, it becomes せずに.

Used to report information heard from another source; "I heard that..." or "they say that..." (e.g., 天気予報によると、明日は雨が降るそうだ。 - According to the weather forecast, I heard it's going to rain tomorrow.)

Indicates a cause or reason, often for a negative result. "Due to" or "because of." (e.g., 事故があったために、電車が遅れている。 - The train is late due to an accident.)

A casual topic marker, similar to 「は」. It can also be used to quote someone, like a casual version of 「と」. (e.g., 田中さんって、どんな人？ - As for Tanaka-san, what kind of person is he?)

A more formal way to report hearsay, similar to 「そうだ」. "I heard that..." or "it is said that..." (e.g., 彼は来月、海外に転勤するということだ。 - I heard that he will be transferred overseas next month.)

Indicates that something was on the verge of happening but did not. "Almost" did something. (e.g., もう少しで車にひかれるところだった。 - I was almost hit by a car.)

Means "even if," "even though," or "granted that." It's used to present a concessive statement. (e.g., 行くにしても、準備が必要だ。 - Even if you go, you need to prepare.)

Indicates that because something was so extreme, a certain result occurred. "So much... that..." (e.g., 驚きのあまり、声も出なかった。 - I was so surprised that I couldn't even speak.)

A formal conjunction used to present alternatives, meaning "or." (e.g., ファックス、あるいはメールでご連絡ください。 - Please contact us by fax or email.)

Indicates that something should be done while a certain state or condition persists. "While..." (e.g., 熱いうちに、どうぞ召し上がってください。 - Please eat it while it's hot.)

Indicates a positive result that occurred thanks to a preceding cause. "Thanks to..." (e.g., 先生のおかげで、試験に合格できました。 - Thanks to you, teacher, I was able to pass the exam.)

Means "every other..." or "at intervals of..." (e.g., このバスは10分おきに発車します。 - This bus departs at intervals of 10 minutes.)

Indicates that someone has a tendency to do something, often with a negative nuance. "Apt to do," "prone to." (e.g., 彼は病気がちで、よく学校を休みます。 - He is prone to illness and often misses school.)

Strongly emphasizes the reason for something. "Precisely because..." (e.g., 愛しているからこそ、厳しく言うのです。 - It is precisely because I love you that I speak strictly.)

Indicates that after an action, nothing else happened as expected. Often implies a situation has continued since. "Only," "just." (e.g., 彼は3年前に日本へ行ったきり、連絡がない。 - He went to Japan 3 years ago and I haven't heard from him since.)

Means "even though" or "despite," but with a strong nuance of criticism or accusation from the speaker. (e.g., 知っているくせに、教えてくれない。 - Even though you know, you won't tell me.)

Indicates the extent or degree of something. "To the extent that..." (e.g., 昨日は死ぬかと思うくらい、お腹が痛かった。 - Yesterday my stomach hurt to the extent that I thought I would die.)

Expresses strong emotion or exclamation about how great or intense something is. "How...!" (e.g., 合格できたら、どんなに嬉しいことか。 - If I could pass, how happy I would be!)

Indicates that something happens occasionally. "Sometimes," "there are times when..." (e.g., 電車は時々遅れることがある。 - The train is sometimes late.)

Indicates the origin or reason for a name, judgment, or fact. "From the fact that..." (e.g., 富士山が見えることから、この町は富士見町と名付けられた。- From the fact that Mt. Fuji is visible, this town was named Fujimi-cho.)

Emphasizes the speaker's feelings about what follows. "To my (surprise, joy, etc.)..." (e.g., 驚いたことに、彼は私の兄を知っていた。 - To my surprise, he knew my older brother.)

Indicates a decision or outcome that has been determined by external factors, not the speaker's will. "It has been decided that..." or "it will end up being..." (e.g., 来月、大阪へ出張することになった。 - It has been decided that I will go on a business trip to Osaka next month.)

Expresses that there is no need or necessity to do something. (e.g., 心配することはないよ。大丈夫だから。 - There is no need to worry. It's okay.)

Emphasizes something by presenting it as an extreme or surprising example. "Even." (e.g., ひらがなさえ書けない。 - I can't even write hiragana.)

An adverb used to change the subject or start a new topic. "Well," "now then." (e.g., さて、次の問題に進みましょう。 - Now then, let's move on to the next question.)

An adverb meaning something has already been completed or is in a certain state. More formal than もう. "Already." (e.g., 会場に着いた時、会議はすでに始まっていた。 - When I arrived at the venue, the meeting had already started.)

Expresses an uncontrollable urge or feeling to do something. "Can't help but do." (e.g., 彼の話を聞いて、笑わずにはいられなかった。 - Hearing his story, I couldn't help but laugh.)

Indicates a cause that leads to a negative result. "Because of," "due to." (e.g., 寝坊したせいで、電車に乗り遅れた。 - I missed the train because I overslept.)

A conjunction meaning "if you do that," "in that case," or "then." (e.g., このボタンを押してください。そうすると、ドアが開きます。 - Please press this button. If you do that, the door will open.)

Expresses that something is very unlikely to happen. (e.g., この仕事は今日中に終わりそうもない。 - This work is very unlikely to be finished today.)

A casual, spoken-language way to report hearsay. "I heard that..." (e.g., 田中さん、結婚したんだって。- I heard that Tanaka-san got married.)

Attached to a verb stem to mean that something has just been freshly done. (e.g., 焼きたてのパンは美味しい。 - Freshly baked bread is delicious.)

Means "every time" or "each time" something happens, something else also happens. (e.g., この歌を聞くたびに、故郷を思い出す。 - Every time I hear this song, I remember my hometown.)

Used to recall past habits or events with nostalgia. "Used to..." (e.g., 子供のころ、よくこの川で泳いだものだ。 - When I was a child, I used to swim in this river often.)

Indicates something is full of or covered in something undesirable. (e.g., この部屋はゴミだらけだ。 - This room is full of trash.)

An adverb used when you do something unintentionally or by mistake. "Accidentally," "inadvertently." (e.g., ダイエット中なのに、ついケーキを食べてしまった。 - Even though I'm on a diet, I accidentally ate the cake.)

Indicates doing something else while taking the opportunity of doing a main action. "While you are at it." (e.g., コンビニに行くついでに、手紙を出してくれませんか。- While you're at the convenience store, could you mail this letter for me?)

A sentence-ending particle used in casual conversation to confirm something you are trying to remember. "...again?" (e.g., 今日の会議、何時からだっけ？ - What time was the meeting today, again?)

Indicates that something has been left in a certain state, usually implying neglect. (e.g., テレビをつけっぱなしで寝てしまった。 - I fell asleep with the TV left on.)

Means "-ish" or "-like." It indicates that something has the qualities or appearance of something else. (e.g., 彼は忘れっぽいので、メモを取るように言った。 - He is forgetful-ish (prone to forgetting), so I told him to take notes.)

A conjunction used to rephrase or summarize what was just said. "In other words," "that is to say," "in short." (e.g., 兄の妻、つまり義姉は医者です。 - My older brother's wife, in other words, my sister-in-law, is a doctor.)

A gentle command form, usually used by someone of higher status to someone of lower status (e.g., parent to child). "(Please) try to..." (e.g., わからなかったら、先生に聞いてごらん。 - If you don't understand, try asking the teacher.)

Used to provide a definition or explanation for a word or phrase (A). B is the definition. (e.g., 「クールビズ」というのは、夏に涼しい服装で働くことです。- "Cool Biz" means working in cool clothes in the summer.)

Used to say that B is a more accurate description than A. "Rather than A, it's more like B." (e.g., この料理は美味しいというより、珍しい味がする。 - This dish, rather than being delicious, has an unusual taste.)

Means "by all means," "no matter what," or when used with a negative, "can't no matter how hard one tries." (e.g., どうしてもこの大学に入りたい。- I want to get into this university no matter what.)

A conjunction expressing an unexpected result. "However," "but," "even so." (e.g., 彼は来ると言っていた。ところが、来なかった。 - He said he would come. However, he didn't.)

Expresses that the reality is far from A, and is often the opposite (B). "Far from," "not to mention." (e.g., 彼は英語どころか、日本語もあまり話せない。 - Far from speaking English, he can't speak much Japanese either.)

A conjunction used to change the subject. "By the way." (e.g., 今日の会議は以上です。ところで、週末の予定は？ - That's all for today's meeting. By the way, what are your plans for the weekend?)

Indicates a role, capacity, or status. "As," "in the capacity of." (e.g., 私は医者として、彼にアドバイスをした。 - As a doctor, I gave him advice.)

A double negative that means something is not impossible or is slightly true. "It's not that... not..." (e.g., 納豆は、食べられないことはないですが、あまり好きじゃないです。 - It's not that I can't eat natto, but I don't like it very much.)

When used with a positive predicate, it means "quite" or "considerably." (e.g., この映画はなかなか面白い。 - This movie is quite interesting.)

A more formal version of 「のに」 or 「けれど」, meaning "although" or "but." (e.g., 彼は狭いながらも、快適な家に住んでいる。 - He lives in a comfortable house, although it is small.)

A casual particle used to give an example, similar to "like" or "such as." Can also show disrespect or downplay the importance of the noun. (e.g., ゲームなんかしないで、勉強しなさい。 - Don't do things like play games, study!)

A formal particle indicating a place, time, or situation. "In," "at," "on." (e.g., 会議は第一会議室において行われます。 - The meeting will be held in Conference Room 1.)

Indicates a range from one point to another, in terms of time or space. "From... to..." (e.g., 昨夜から今朝にかけて、大雨が降った。 - It rained heavily from last night to this morning.)

Indicates the topic of a sentence. "About," "concerning." (e.g., 日本の文化についてレポートを書きます。 - I will write a report about Japanese culture.)

Indicates the means, method, or cause. "By," "due to," "according to." (e.g., インターネットによって、世界中の情報を得ることができる。- By means of the internet, we can get information from all over the world.)

Indicates the source of information. "According to..." (e.g., 今朝のニュースによると、大きな地震があったそうだ。 - According to this morning's news, there was a big earthquake.)

A formal way to say 「について」. "Regarding," "related to." (e.g., この件に関する資料を送ります。 - I will send the documents related to this matter.)

A formal way of saying 「だけでなく」. "Not only... but also." (e.g., 彼女は英語ばかりでなく、フランス語も話せる。 - She can speak not only English but also French.)

Expresses that because of one sole reason, a negative outcome occurred. "Simply because..." (e.g., 彼が嘘をついたばかりに、大変なことになった。 - Simply because he told a lie, things became terrible.)

To act as if something is true when it is not. "To pretend," "to feign." (e.g., 彼は聞こえないふりをした。 - He pretended not to hear.)

Indicates degree or extent. Can also be used in the structure 「～ば～ほど」 (the more... the more...). (e.g., 考えれば考えるほど、わからなくなる。 - The more I think about it, the more I don't understand.)

An adverb expressing disbelief or that something is unlikely. "No way!," "It can't be!" (e.g., まさか彼が犯人だったとは。 - I never dreamed he was the culprit.)

Indicates that B is a better or more accurate choice than A. "Rather," "instead." (e.g., 私はコーヒーより、むしろ紅茶が好きだ。 - I prefer tea rather than coffee.)

An adverb expressing possibility or uncertainty, often used with 「～かもしれない」. "Perhaps," "maybe." (e.g., もしかしたら、彼はもう帰ったかもしれない。 - Perhaps he has already gone home.)

Expresses strong conviction that something is impossible or cannot be true. "There is no way that..." (e.g., こんなに大きい家が、彼に買えるわけがない。 - There is no way he can afford such a big house.)

Indicates a logical conclusion. "That's why," "no wonder," "for that reason." (e.g., 暑いわけだ。気温が35度もある。 - No wonder it's hot. The temperature is 35 degrees.)

A partial negation. "It doesn't mean that..." or "it's not the case that..." (e.g., 日本料理が嫌いなわけではないが、あまり食べない。 - It's not that I dislike Japanese food, I just don't eat it much.)

Expresses that one cannot do something due to social, moral, or situational pressure. "Cannot afford to." (e.g., 明日は大事な会議があるので、休むわけにはいかない。 - There is an important meeting tomorrow, so I can't afford to take the day off.)

An adverb for an action that requires special effort. Can be used for gratitude or complaint. "To go to the trouble of," "expressly." (e.g., わざわざ来てくれてありがとう。 - Thank you for going to the trouble of coming here.)

Used to list a primary example followed by others. "Starting with..." or "not only... but also..." (e.g., 日本には、京都をはじめ、多くの美しい都市がある。- In Japan, starting with Kyoto, there are many beautiful cities.)

A very casual form of hearsay, equivalent to 「そうだ」. "I heard that..." (e.g., 駅前に新しいカフェができたんだって。- I heard a new cafe opened in front of the station.)

A verb suffix that indicates entering or going into something. (e.g., プールに飛び込む。 - To jump into the pool.)

A verb suffix that can mean to do something thoroughly or for a long time. (e.g., 考え込む。 - To be deep in thought.)

Used to introduce the reason for something mentioned previously. "The reason why is..." or "If you ask why, it's because..." (e.g., なぜ彼が怒っているかというと、約束を破られたからだ。- The reason he is angry is because a promise was broken.)

Used to elaborate on a point, often to express that the situation is not so simple. "If you ask me if..." (e.g., この本は面白いかというと、まあまあだ。 - If you ask me if this book is interesting, it's just so-so.)

Expresses an attempt to do something that failed or was interrupted. "I tried to ~, but ~." (e.g., 窓を開けようとしたら、雨が降ってきた。- Just as I tried to open the window, it started to rain.)

Expresses the intention or attempt to do something. "To try to," "to be about to." (e.g., 家を出ようとすると、電話が鳴った。 - Just as I was about to leave the house, the phone rang.)

Expresses that something is difficult or impossible to do, often emotionally or mentally. "Hard to." (e.g., それは信じがたい話だ。 - That is a hard-to-believe story.)

Used for giving strong advice or suggestions. "You should..." (e.g., 疲れたなら、早く寝ることだ。 - If you're tired, you should go to sleep early.)

Expresses that there is no other option or choice. "To have no choice but to..." (e.g., バスがないから、歩いて帰るしかない。 - There are no buses, so I have no choice but to walk home.)

An adverb used for comparisons, meaning "by far" or "much more." (e.g., 彼は私よりずっと背が高い。 - He is by far taller than me.)

Expresses permission; it doesn't matter if something is done. A softer way of saying 「てもいい」. "It doesn't matter if..." (e.g., ここに座ってもかまわないですか。 - Is it okay if I sit here?)

Used to start a conversation or comment related to a topic that has just been mentioned. "Speaking of..." (e.g., 「日本料理ですか。日本料理といえば、寿司が有名ですね。」 - "Japanese food? Speaking of Japanese food, sushi is famous, isn't it?")

Emphasizes that something is impossible to do. "Cannot possibly," "not at all." (e.g., こんなにたくさんの仕事、一日ではとても終わらない。 - There is no way I can possibly finish this much work in one day.)

Indicates that something is not always or necessarily the case. "Not necessarily so." (e.g., お金持ちが必ずしも幸せだとは限らない。 - Being rich does not necessarily mean you are happy.)

A formal expression meaning "together with" or "along with." (e.g., 家族と共に、新年を迎えた。- I welcomed the New Year together with my family.)

Indicates that two actions or events happen at the same time. "At the same time as." (e.g., 彼は卒業と同時に、会社を設立した。 - He established a company at the same time as he graduated.)

Indicates that something does not happen as easily or as often as one would like. "Not easily," "not really." (e.g., バスがなかなか来ない。 - The bus is really not coming.)

Expresses that something is unusual or surprising considering the standard set by the preceding noun. "For," "(even) considering." (e.g., 初めてにしては、上手にできましたね。 - For your first time, you did it very well.)

Indicates that as one thing changes, another thing changes along with it. "As," "with." (e.g., 試験が近づくにつれて、彼は緊張してきた。- As the exam got closer, he became more nervous.)

Expresses the speaker's strong conviction or certainty about something. "There is no doubt that," "it must be." (e.g., 鍵がない。どこかに落としたに違いない。 - I don't have my keys. I must have dropped them somewhere.)

Expresses the speaker's belief that something is the absolute best choice. "Nothing is better than." (e.g., 暑い夏は、冷たいビールに限る。 - On a hot summer day, nothing is better than a cold beer.)

Indicates a contrast between two things. "In contrast to," "whereas." (e.g., 兄が活動的なのに対して、弟は読書が好きだ。 - Whereas the older brother is active, the younger brother likes reading.)

Used to make a direct comparison. "Compared to." (e.g., 東京は大阪に比べて、物価が高い。 - Compared to Osaka, prices are high in Tokyo.)

Used to give advice or a suggestion. "You should just..." or "all you have to do is..." (e.g., 分からなければ、先生に聞けばいい。 - If you don't understand, you can just ask the teacher.)

Indicates a continuous change in one direction, usually negative. "To (only) continue to..." (e.g., 状況は悪くなるばかりだ。 - The situation is only getting worse.)

Used to say that something is obvious, and then to add another, less obvious point. "Not to mention," "not only... but also." (e.g., 彼は英語はもちろん、スペイン語も話せる。 - He can speak not only English, of course, but also Spanish.)

Expresses a strong sense of duty, obligation, or what is considered appropriate. "Must," "should." (e.g., 学生はもっと勉強するべきだ。 - Students should study more.)

Expresses that something should not be done; it is inappropriate or wrong. "Should not." (e.g., 人の悪口を言うべきではない。 - You should not speak ill of others.)

A comparative structure meaning "A is not as... as B." (e.g., 今年の冬は去年ほど寒くない。 - This winter is not as cold as last year.)

Indicates that a state remains unchanged. "As is," "left as it is." (e.g., 窓を開けたまま、寝てしまった。 - I fell asleep with the window left open.)

A conjunction used to add a condition or exception to the previous statement. "Although," "however." (e.g., 旅行に行きたい。もっとも、お金があればの話だが。 - I want to go on a trip. Although, that's only if I have the money.)

A sentence-ending particle used in casual conversation, especially by women and children, to express a reason or excuse. "Because..." (e.g., 「どうして食べないの？」「だって、お腹が空いてないんだもの。」 - "Why aren't you eating?" "Because I'm not hungry.")

Expresses a general truth, social norm, or something that is supposed to be a certain way. "Is supposed to," "is the nature of." (e.g., 人の心は変わるものだ。 - People's hearts are supposed to change (i.e., It's natural for them to change).)

Expresses a vague feeling, hunch, or impression. "I have a feeling that..." (e.g., 誰かに見られているような気がする。 - I have a feeling that someone is watching me.)

An adverb used with question words to add emphasis of doubt, confusion, or frustration. "(What/who/why) on earth...?" (e.g., 一体、何があったのですか。 - What on earth happened?)

Indicates a continuing, one-way trend or change. "More and more," "to keep on..." (e.g., この町の人口は減る一方だ。 - The population of this town keeps on decreasing.)

Used to present a contrasting point or another side of a situation. "On the other hand." (e.g., 彼は仕事に厳しい一方で、とても優しい一面もある。- He is strict at work, but on the other hand, he also has a very kind side.)

Expresses that something is different from what would be expected from a certain standard. Similar to にしては. "Considering," "for," "although." (e.g., このレストランは値段が安い割に、とても美味しい。 - This restaurant is very delicious for its cheap price.)

Indicates something is suitable or designed for a particular type of person or purpose. "Suitable for," "aimed at." (e.g., この本は、子供向きに書かれている。 - This book is written for children.)

Indicates something is made or intended for a specific audience or market. "Intended for," "marketed at." (e.g., これは海外市場向けの製品です。 - This is a product intended for the overseas market.)

A verb suffix indicating reciprocal action. "To do for each other." (e.g., 私たちは困った時、いつも助け合ってきた。 - We have always helped each other when we were in trouble.)

A formal adverb for "again." (e.g., 再び、彼に会える日を楽しみにしています。 - I am looking forward to the day I can meet him again.)

Indicates that something happens in the very middle of another action, often with an element of interruption. "In the middle of." (e.g., 食事の最中に、電話が鳴った。 - The phone rang right in the middle of the meal.)

A formal expression meaning "as soon as." (e.g., 部屋の準備ができ次第、お呼びします。 - As soon as the room is ready, we will call you.)

Indicates that one action is done after another as a prerequisite. "After," "upon." (e.g., よく考えた上で、ご返事します。 - After careful consideration, I will give you my reply.)

A verb suffix indicating that an action is done completely or with determination. (e.g., 長い小説を、3日間で読み切った。- I finished reading the long novel completely in 3 days.)

Indicates that something is too much to be finished or done completely. "Unable to finish." (e.g., ご飯の量が多すぎて、食べ切れない。 - There is too much rice, I can't finish it all.)

Means "instead of" or "in exchange for." (e.g., 父の代わりに、私が会議に出席します。 - I will attend the meeting instead of my father.)

Indicates the entire duration of a time period. Read as じゅう. (e.g., 一日中、雨が降っていた。 - It was raining all day long.)

A formal adverb meaning "immediately" or "at once." (e.g., 問題が発生した場合、直ちにご連絡ください。 - If a problem occurs, please contact us at once.)

A suffix that turns nouns into na-adjectives, similar to "-ic," "-al," or "-like" in English. (e.g., 科学的 (scientific), 歴史的 (historical).)

A pattern meaning "it depends on..." (e.g., 成功するかどうかは、努力によって違う。- Whether you succeed or not depends on your effort.)

Expresses that someone shows no sign of or willingness to do something. "Not willing to," "won't." (e.g., 彼は自分の間違いを認めようとしない。- He is not willing to admit his mistake.)

Used to describe the appearance, figure, or state of someone or something. (e.g., 彼の働く姿はとても格好いい。 - The sight of him working is very cool.)

Indicates an equal distribution or repetition of a certain amount. "Each," "at a time." (e.g., 学生に紙を3枚ずつ配ってください。 - Please distribute three sheets of paper to each student.)

Expresses "whether... or not." The result is the same regardless of the action. (e.g., あなたが行っても行かなくても、会は始まります。 - Whether you go or not, the meeting will start.)

A formal way to state that something is a fact. "It is a fact that..." (e.g., 地球が丸いというのは事実だ。 - It is a fact that the Earth is round.)

Used to clarify or qualify a previous statement, suggesting it might be an exaggeration. "Although I said...," "even though one might say..." (e.g., 料理ができると言っても、簡単なものだけです。 - Although I say I can cook, it's only simple things.)

A standard pattern for saying something is famous for a particular reason. "A is famous for B." (e.g., 京都は古いお寺で有名です。 - Kyoto is famous for its old temples.)

A formal, written expression to state a fact or rule, often used in announcements or descriptions. "It is," "has become." (e.g., 会議は午後3時からとなっています。 - The meeting is (scheduled for) 3 PM.)

A suffix meaning "type," "style," or "model." (e.g., 新型コロナウイルス (new type corona virus), 血液型 (blood type).)

Allows a particle phrase to modify a noun, which it normally cannot do. (e.g., 友達へのプレゼント - a present for my friend.)

An adverb that emphasizes the degree of an adjective or verb, often used with 「～て」 or 「～ので」. "Too," "so much." (e.g., あまりに嬉しくて、涙が出た。 - I was so happy that I cried.)

A formal, written version of ある, often used in formal notices. It can also be a noun meaning "possibility." (e.g., 影響なし (no effect) vs 影響あり (effect exists/possibility of effect).)

Expresses "no matter how much..." The result is the same regardless of the degree. (e.g., いくら食べても、お腹がいっぱにならない。 - No matter how much I eat, I don't get full.)

Indicates an action is in progress or has been left unfinished. "Half-," "in the middle of." (e.g., 読みかけの本が机の上にある。 - The book I'm in the middle of reading is on the desk.)

An adverb indicating a degree that is higher than average or expected. "Quite," "considerably," "rather." (e.g., 今日の試験はかなり難しかった。 - Today's test was quite difficult.)

Indicates a viewpoint or perspective from which a judgment is made. "From the standpoint of," "in terms of." (e.g., 品質から言うと、この製品が一番いい。 - In terms of quality, this product is the best.)

Indicates a slight tendency or sign of something, usually negative. "A little," "kind of," "looking." (e.g., 最近、少し疲れぎみです。 - Lately, I'm feeling a little tired.)

This is likely a combination of こと + なの. A is (Description of A). (e.g. 「大事なことは、諦めないことなの」- "The important thing is not giving up.") It makes the statement softer and more explanatory.

Expresses that if only one condition is met, the result will be achieved. "If only... then..." (e.g., あなたさえいれば、何もいらない。 - If only I have you, I don't need anything else.)

A conjunction meaning "and then" or "in that case," indicating a direct consequence or sequence of events. (e.g., 薬を飲んだ。すると、すぐに眠くなった。- I took the medicine. And then, I immediately became sleepy.)

A conjunction indicating that the second clause is an action taken based on the situation in the first clause. "So," "therefore," "accordingly." (e.g., 電車が遅れた。そこで、タクシーに乗った。 - The train was late. So, I took a taxi.)

Indicates a reason or purpose. "For that reason," "because of that." (e.g., 彼は留学をしたいと思っている。そのために、毎日日本語を勉強している。 - He wants to study abroad. For that reason, he studies Japanese every day.)

A conjunction used to introduce the result of a preceding action or event. "As a result." (e.g., 彼は一生懸命勉強した。その結果、試験に合格した。 - He studied very hard. As a result, he passed the exam.)

A noun or adverb meaning "each" or "respectively." (e.g., 参加者はそれぞれ、自分の意見を述べた。 - The participants each stated their own opinion.)

A pattern that strongly emphasizes "only" or "nothing but." It is a more emphatic version of だけ. (e.g., 財布には100円だけしか入っていない。 - There is only 100 yen in my wallet.)

A common pattern for "not only A, but also B." (e.g., 彼は勉強だけでなく、スポーツもできる。 - He is good at not only studying but also sports.)

A pattern used to express a hypothetical situation, meaning "even if." It emphasizes that the result will be the same regardless. (e.g., たとえ雨が降っても、試合は行われます。- Even if it rains, the match will be held.)

Expresses that a second action happens immediately after the first, often unexpectedly. "The moment," "as soon as." (e.g., 窓を開けたとたん、強い風が入ってきた。 - The moment I opened the window, a strong wind came in.)

Indicates purpose or benefit. "For the sake of," "in order to." (e.g., 家族のために、毎日働いています。 - I work every day for the sake of my family.)

Expresses a wish or hope. "It would be nice if..." or "I wish..." (e.g., もっと時間があったらいいのになあ。 - I wish I had more time.)

An adverb meaning to do something correctly, properly, or reliably. (e.g., 部屋をちゃんと掃除してください。 - Please clean the room properly.)

The formal, written equivalent of だ or です. Used in academic writing, essays, and formal speeches. "Is," "are." (e.g., これが日本の首都である東京だ。 - This is Tokyo, the capital of Japan.)

An adverbial phrase meaning "if possible" or "if you can." (e.g., できれば、今日中にこの仕事を終わらせたい。 - If possible, I want to finish this work by the end of today.)

A conjunction used to start a new topic or move on, based on the previous context. "Well then," "in that case," "if so." (e.g., 「もう時間です。」「では、始めましょう。」 - "It's time." "Well then, let's begin.")

A pattern for correction or clarification. "Not A, but B." (e.g., 私が欲しいのは、これではなくて、それです。 - What I want is not this, but that.)

Means "is also." (e.g., 彼は学者でもあり、小説家でもある。 - He is also a scholar, and also a novelist.)

A conditional phrase meaning "If... is alright." (e.g., このペンでよければ、どうぞ使ってください。 - If this pen is alright, please go ahead and use it.)

A way to specify a category or frame of reference. "In terms of," "speaking of...". (e.g., 動物で言うと、私は犬が一番好きです。 - In terms of animals, I like dogs the best.)

Emphasizes that something was realized or became possible only after a certain experience. "Not until," "only after." (e.g., 日本に来て初めて、寿司を食べました。- I ate sushi for the first time only after coming to Japan.)

A formal way to state a reason. "For the reason that..." (e.g., 体調不良という理由で、彼は会議を欠席した。 - He was absent from the meeting for the reason of being unwell.)

Indicates that something is done or happens exactly as stated or shown. "Just as," "in the way that." (e.g., 私が言うとおりに、書いてください。 - Please write exactly as I say.)

Used to create a hypothetical situation. "If," "suppose that." (e.g., もし、宝くじが当たったとしたら、何をしますか。- If you were to win the lottery, what would you do?)

Similar to いくら～でも. "No matter how." (e.g., どんなに大変でも、最後まで頑張ります。 - No matter how difficult it is, I will do my best until the end.)

Used to state a conclusion or opinion with some confidence. "It could be said that," "one might say." (e.g., 彼は現代最高の作家の一人と言えるだろう。 - It could be said that he is one of the greatest modern writers.)

A pattern for comparison, meaning "A is about the same as B." (e.g., 兄は父と同じくらいの背の高さだ。 - My older brother is about the same height as my father.)

Indicates similarity. "Just like A, B is..." (e.g., 私の国も日本と同じで、島国です。 - My country, just like Japan, is an island nation.)

Indicates that something ranks alongside another in importance or quality. "Along with," "as well as." (e.g., 彼はサッカーの技術がメッシと並んで評価されている。 - His soccer skills are rated alongside Messi's.)

Indicates that something should be done before a certain state changes. "Before..." (e.g., 雨が降らないうちに、帰りましょう。 - Let's go home before it starts to rain.)

Means "without." Can be used as a suffix or standalone. (e.g., 砂糖なしのコーヒーをください。 - A coffee without sugar, please.)

A formal way to introduce a reason. "That is because..." (e.g., 私は彼を尊敬している。なぜなら、彼はいつも正直だからだ。 - I respect him. That is because he is always honest.)

Indicates that something is based on a certain foundation, such as facts, data, or a law. "Based on." (e.g., この映画は事実にもとづいて作られた。 - This movie was made based on facts.)

Indicates that something is done in accordance with or tailored to something else. "In accordance with," "to match." (e.g., お客様の要望に合わせて、プランを変更します。 - We will change the plan in accordance with the customer's request.)

Indicates a perspective from which something is judged. "To," "for," "from the point of view of." (e.g., この問題は、私にとって非常に重要だ。 - This problem is extremely important to me.)

Means to do something in place of or as a substitute for someone/something. "In place of," "instead of." (e.g., 今日は社長に代わって、私がご挨拶させていただきます。- Today, in place of the president, I will give the greeting.)

Indicates correspondence or equivalence. "To correspond to," "to be equivalent to." (e.g., 彼の証言は、法律に違反する行為に当たる。 - His testimony corresponds to an act that violates the law.)

A pattern for emphasizing one part of a comparison. "It is X that..." (e.g., 背が高いのは、私より弟の方だ。- It is my younger brother, not me, who is taller.)

Indicates a period of time during which something happens. "While," "during." (e.g., 留守の間に、誰か来ましたか。 - Did anyone come while I was out?)

A comparative pattern showing proportional change. "The more... the more..." (e.g., 日本語は、勉強すればするほど面白くなる。 - The more you study Japanese, the more interesting it becomes.)

Expresses that B is about the only example or instance of A. (e.g., 私の趣味は、週末に映画を見ることくらいです。 - About the only hobby I have is watching movies on the weekend.)

Used to state that something is so obvious it doesn't need to be mentioned. "It goes without saying," "not to mention." (e.g., 彼は英語は言うまでもなく、フランス語も話せる。 - It goes without saying that he speaks English, but he can also speak French.)

An adverb indicating a continuous increase in degree or quantity. "Increasingly," "more and more." (e.g., 台風が近づいて、雨と風がますます強くなっている。 - As the typhoon approaches, the rain and wind are getting stronger and stronger.)

Used to make a simile, often with an element of exaggeration. "As if," "just like." (e.g., 彼はまるで、全てを知っているかのように話す。 - He talks as if he knows everything.)

A suffix that turns some i-adjectives into nouns, often referring to a specific quality or sensation. (e.g., 痛み (pain), 悲しみ (sadness), 強み (strength).)

An adverb expressing that something occurs very infrequently. "Rarely," "hardly ever." (e.g., 私はめったに外で食事をしない。 - I rarely eat out.)

A more emphatic way to form a conditional sentence, stressing the hypothetical nature. "If," "supposing." (e.g., もしも、１億円あったら、何に使いますか。 - If you had 100 million yen, what would you use it for?)

Can be a casual negation of です, or a rhetorical question seeking agreement. "Isn't it?" (e.g.,「これ、美味しいじゃない。」- "This is delicious, isn't it?")

Expresses that something is related to or involved with something else. (e.g., この事件に関係がある人物を調べている。 - We are investigating the people involved with this case.)

An adverb indicating a result that is contrary to expectations. "On the contrary," "all the more." (e.g., 親切のつもりで言ったのに、却って彼を怒らせてしまった。- I meant to be kind, but on the contrary I ended up making him angry.)

A strong adverb of negation. "Never," "by no means." (e.g., 私は決して、あなたを裏切らない。 - I will never betray you.)

Used to introduce something that is completely obvious. "It goes without saying." (e.g., 言うまでもなく、健康は第一だ。 - It goes without saying that health is number one.)

An expression meaning that something is "unthinkable" or "inconceivable." (e.g., 彼がそんなことをするなんて、考えられない。 - It is unthinkable that he would do such a thing.)

A verb meaning to have a great influence on something, to control its outcome. "To influence," "to determine." (e.g., この試合の結果が、優勝を左右する。 - The result of this match will determine the championship.)

As a suffix, it can mean that an action is completed. Often used for finishing things like writing or making something. (e.g., レポートが書き上がった。 - The report is finished being written.)

An adverb indicating that something has finally happened after a long wait or effort, can be for good or bad results. "Finally," "at last." (e.g., 彼は長年の夢だった自分の店を、遂にオープンさせた。 - He finally opened the store he had dreamed of for many years.)

An adverb used when a valuable opportunity is present, or when effort has been made. Can express gratitude or regret if the opportunity is missed. "With trouble," "at great pains." (e.g., 折角の休日だから、どこかへ行こう。 - It's a rare holiday, so let's go somewhere.)

A formal way to refer to two things that were just mentioned. "The former is... and the latter is..." (e.g., 犬と猫が好きだが、前者は忠実で、後者は自由気ままだ。- I like dogs and cats; the former are loyal, and the latter are capricious.)

A strong adverb of negation. "Not at all." (e.g., 彼の言っていることは、全く理解できない。- I can't understand what he's saying at all.)

A formal conjunction used to rephrase or define something. "In other words," "namely." (e.g., 日本の首都、即ち東京。 - The capital of Japan, namely, Tokyo.)

Can mean "number one" or "first," but also as an adverb "first of all" or "in the first place." (e.g., そもそも、第一、彼の計画は無理だ。 - To begin with, in the first place, his plan is impossible.)

Indicates a specific point, aspect, or respect in which something is being considered. "In terms of," "the aspect of." (e.g., デザインの点では、こちらの方が優れている。 - In terms of design, this one is superior.)

Used to express a rate or average. "Per." (e.g., この駐車場の料金は、1時間当たり500円です。 - The fee for this parking lot is 500 yen per hour.)

A suffix indicating that people are of the same group or have a similar relationship. "Fellow," "among." (e.g., 彼らは会社の同僚同士だ。 - They are colleagues with each other at the same company.)

A set phrase meaning "not necessarily" or "not always." (e.g., 正しいことが、必ずしも人を幸せにするとは限らない。 - What is right does not always make people happy.)

An expression used to say "not particularly" or "not really." (e.g., 「何か質問はありますか。」「いえ、別にありません。」 - "Do you have any questions?" "No, not really.")

A slightly formal way to add another item or piece of information. "Also," "as well," "moreover." (e.g., 彼は英語が話せる。又、中国語も少し話せる。- He can speak English. Moreover, he can also speak a little Chinese.)

The continuative form of a verb (e.g. the stem or -te form), used to connect clauses or form compound verbs. (e.g., In 「読み書き」 (reading and writing), 「読み」 is the 連用形 of 「読む」.)