A Complete Guide to the Particle 「で」in Japanese
The particle 「で」 is small but powerful. This article explores its many roles in Japanese grammar.
grammar
Published: 2025/9/21 （Updated: 2025/9/21）
Columns
The Difference Between は (wa) and が (ga) in Japanese
The particles は (wa) and が (ga) are among the most challenging parts of Japanese for learners. Both may look like “the subject” in English, but they actually serve very different roles. In this article, you’ll learn how は marks the topic and が highlights the focus or new information, with clear examples and context-based explanations.
grammar
Published: 2025/9/20
Understanding the Verb Yaburu (破る)
The Japanese verb yaburu (破る) is often translated as break or tear, but its meaning extends far beyond the physical act of ripping paper.
expression
Published: 2025/9/19
A Comprehensive Guide to Japanese Passive Constructions
The Japanese passive voice is much more than a grammatical transformation—it reflects perspective, emotion, and social nuance. This article explores its main types, functions, and subtle differences.
grammar
Published: 2025/9/18
“思う Omou” and “考える Kangaeru” — The Dual Nature of Thinking in Japanese
Japanese has two common verbs for “to think”: 思う (omou) and 考える (kangaeru). They seem similar, but their nuances reveal much about how Japanese expresses thought.
expression
Published: 2025/9/17 （Updated: 2025/9/17）
How to Use “Dake,” “Shika~nai,” and “Nomi” in Japanese
In Japanese, “dake,” “shika~nai,” and “nomi” all mean “only,” but they differ in grammar and nuance. This article explains how each is used, with examples showing the subtle differences learners often miss.
expression
Published: 2025/9/17
Do You Say 毎日に Mainichi ni? How に Works with Time Expressions in Japanese
Some Japanese time expressions take に, some never do, and some allow both. The difference depends on whether the word marks a specific point in time or a habit.
grammar
Published: 2025/9/15
Hayai in Japanese: When to Use 早い and When to Use 速い
In Japanese, both early and fast are expressed with the same word: "hayai". But are they really the same?
expression
Published: 2025/9/14
"Nidone"? "Neochi"? Japanese Expressions with “Sleep”
Japanese has many unique expressions related to sleep. Each phrase reflects everyday life in Japan and offers learners a natural way to talk about sleep. This article introduces key expressions with examples, romaji, and English translations to help you use them in real conversations.
expression
Published: 2025/9/12
“Counting Classes with Koma: How Time Works in Japanese Schools”
In Japan, the word koma (コマ) is used to count class periods, but it means more than just “one lesson.” School life also includes homeroom, cleaning, and even lunch as part of the official timetable. Understanding these unique “time rules” will help you work smoothly in a Japanese school.
expression
Published: 2025/9/12