Author: shishoh

なぜ、さんぼん、よんほんなのか？ Why do we say sanbon and yonhon? 1. そもそも日本語は発音しやすく変化する In Japanese, sounds often change to make pronunciation easier. 2. 「さんぼん」になる理由 Why “sanbon” instead of “sanhon“? （1）発音のつながりが悪い The connection between “n” and “h” is hard to pronounce. （2）だから「ぼん」に変える So, we change it to “bon“. ➡️結果、「さんぼん（sanbon）」となる。Thus, “sanbon” is the natural result. 3. 「よんほん」になる理由 Why “yonhon” stays…

What Does “Naruhodo” Mean in Japanese? Easy Guide to Its Meaning, Usage, and Origins You’ve probably heard the word “naruhodo” in Japanese conversations—perhaps someone nodded and said, “Ah, naruhodo ne!” after hearing your explanation. This short phrase may seem simple, but it reflects a uniquely Japanese sense of communication. In this article, we’ll explain the…

🌟Conjunctive Particle 「て」 – Usages and Examples ① [Sequence of Actions or Events] ➡ “Aして、Bする”: Two or more actions happen in order. Meaning: Action A happens, and then action B follows. It expresses a natural sequence. Examples: ② [Cause / Reason] ➡ “Aして、B”: Action A causes or leads to result B. Meaning: B happens because…

The “Uchi-Soto” Concept in Japanese Honorifics (Keigo) Understanding Japan’s Relative Honorific System In Japanese culture, the distinction between “uchi” (内) and “soto” (外) forms the foundation of honorific language (敬語/keigo). This isn’t just about politeness—it’s a linguistic reflection of social relationships. Key Definitions Uchi (内) = “In-group” Soto (外) = “Out-group” How It Affects Honorifics…

EJU (Examination for Japanese University Admission) – Schedule, Subjects, and Study Methods 1. EJU Test Dates (開催日) The EJU is held twice a year: Registration deadlines are usually 2-3 months before the exam. Check the official JASSO website for exact dates. 2. EJU Subjects (科目) The EJU consists of four main subject areas, but students…

[English] EJU (Examination for Japanese University Admission for International Students) 1. Subjects and Format The EJU consists of the following subjects: Students choose subjects based on their university requirements. 2. Test Dates EJU is held twice a year: 3. When to Take the EJU for 2027 University Admission If you plan to enter a Japanese…

[English] How to Watch Japanese News from Abroad 1. Official News Websites (Free) ✅ NHK NEWS WEB (https://www3.nhk.or.jp/news/) ✅ Yahoo! Japan News (https://news.yahoo.co.jp/) ✅ Nikkei (Nihon Keizai Shimbun) (https://www.nikkei.com/) ✅ Asahi Shimbun Digital (https://www.asahi.com/) / Yomiuri Online (https://www.yomiuri.co.jp/) 2. Video News Sites (Free) ✅ NHK WORLD-JAPAN (https://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/) ✅ ABEMA NEWS (https://news.abema.tv/) ✅ TBS NEWS DIG…

The Complete Guide to “Kureru” vs. “Ageru” in Japanese Introduction The giving/receiving verbs “kureru” (くれる) and “ageru” (あげる) are essential yet challenging parts of Japanese grammar. This guide will clearly explain their differences with practical examples. Core Meanings ❶ “Kureru” (くれる) → Used when the speaker (or speaker’s in-group) receives a benefit Example:“Kare ga watashi…

“運転させてくれた” (untensasetekureta) Full Breakdown: Complete Structure:[Noun 運転] + [Causative させる] + [Particle て] + [Verb くれる] + [Past た] Literal Meaning:“(Someone) gave me the favor of letting me drive (in the past)” Grammatical Notes: Example:父が運転させてくれた(Chichi ga untensasetekureta)“My father let me drive (as a favor to me).” Conjugation Pattern:運転する → 運転させる (causative) → 運転させて (te-form) →…