Sakura Teachings

One day, one step.-A Japanese Proverb

[sakurabud]

Verbs in General 一般的な動作

こんにちは皆さん！私はサクラです。For today's post, we will be talking about verbs. In the past posts, I have talked about various kinds of verb formation such as Transitive and Intransitive Verbs. However, today I am going to tell you some basic verb forms to know when speaking Japanese.

1. Present and Past Forms

When learning Japanese verbs, the first thing one must do is to learn the present and past forms of verbs. In general, present positive forms of verbs are followed by 「ます」(masu), and present negative forms are followed by 「ません」(masen). However, u-verbs has to have one character changed before that happens. For example, 話す (hanasu) has to be 「話します」(hanashimasu) for present positive and 「話しません」(hanashimasen) for present negative.

For past verbs, the endings are different. Past positive verbs are followed by 「ました」(mashita) and past negative verbs are followed by 「ませんでした」(masendeshita).

Here's a list to show examples.

Ru Verbs

たべる=たべます/たべません/たべました/たべませんでした

U Verbs

はなす=はなします/はなしません/はなしました/はなしませんでした

あそぶ＝あそびます/あそびません/あそびました/あそびませんでした

かえる＝かえります/かえりません/かえりました/かえりませんでした

およぐ=およぎます/およぎません/およぎました/およぎませんでした

かく=かきます/かきません/かきました/かきませんでした

まつ=まちます/まちません/まちました/まちませんでした

しぬ=しにます/しにません/しにました/しにませんでした

よむ=よみます/よみません/よみました/よみませんでした

かう=かいます/かいません/かいました/かいませんでした

Irregular Verbs

する＝します/しません/しました/しませんでした

くる=きます/きません/きました/きませんでした

2. Te Form

Te forms are used for many reasons from combining sentences to showing that someone is doing something at the time. They contain the stem form of the verb and the character て (te). Depending on the sentence, the spelling of the te verb varies. For example, if you were to say, "Please do your homework," you would say 「宿題をしてください」(shukudai o shite kudasai), however if you said "I am doing homework," you would say 「宿題をしています」(shukudai o shiteimasu). A bit of a warning, depending on the u-verb, the spelling might be different.

Here's a list to show examples.

Ru Verbs たべる=たべて U Verbs はなす=はなして あそぶ＝あそんで かえる＝かえって およぐ=およいで かく=かいて まつ=まって しぬ=しんで よむ=よんで かう=かって Irregular Verbs する＝して くる=きて 3. Informal Verbs These are basically shorter versions of the usual verbs. If you go to Japan, unless you are watching anime or talking in a casual setting, you will not hear or use such verb formation most of the time. For present positive, the dictionary form of the verb is used. Negative verbs and even past positive verbs are spelled differently however. Here's a list to show examples. Ru Verbs たべる=たべる/たべない/たべた/たべなかった U Verbs はなす=はなす/はなさない/はなした/はなさなかった あそぶ＝あそぶ/あそばない/あそんだ/あそばなかった かえる＝かえる/かえらない/かえった/かえらなかった およぐ=およぐ/およがない/およいだ/およがなかった かく=かく/かかない/かいた/かかなかった まつ=まつ/またない/まった/またなかった しぬ=しぬ/しなない/しんだ/しななかった よむ=よむ/よまない/よんだ/よまなかった かう=かう/かわない/かった/かわなかった Irregular Verbs する＝する/しない/した/しなかった くる=くる/こない/きた/こなかった NOTE: ある＝ある/ない/あった/なかった Because there are many other verbs variations, Japanese can be hard to learn. However, these are the forms you ought to memorize when practicing Japanese. If you spend the time memorizing and using them, you will be able to get better. That's it for today's lesson! これが終わります！ありがとうございました。

Source(s) I Have Used for Additional Information:

Conjugations for ある-www.tanoshiijapanese.com

Master Japanese Verb Conjugation in One Article-blog.lingodeer.com

Illustration was made by yours truly.

[sakurabud]

Suru and Naru するとなる

こんにちは皆さん！私はサクラです。For today's post, we will be talking the usage of する (suru) and なる (naru) for adjectives. These two terms are used whenever something is made to be or becomes said adjective. In order to use them properly, it's best to learn about the differences.

1.する VS なる

When a noun becomes/develops a said adjective, these two terms are used. However, it will all depend on how it occurred. If someone were to make something or someone of the adjective, する is used. But if the subject of the sentence becomes something, なる has to be used. For example, if I were to say "The weather became cold," I would say 「天気が寒くなりました」(tenki ga samuku narimashita). However, if I said "he made the speech longer," I would say 「彼はスピーチを長くしました」(kare wa supi-chi o nagaku shimashita).

2. Using the terms

Whether using する or なる、it's important that the grammar and punctuation is correct. For い (i) adjectives, you have to replace い with く(ku). As for na adjectives, the な is replaced by に (ni). Here are a few examples.

その店は忙しくなりました。

Sono mise wa isogashiku narimashita.

That store became busy.

このねこは元気になります。

Kono neko wa genki ni narimasu.

The cat becomes energetic.

私は水が熱くしました。

Watashi wa mizu ga atsuku shimashita.

I made the water hot.

彼女は部屋がきれにします。

Kanojo wa heiya ga kireni shimasu.

She makes the room clean. This type of grammar term is pretty simple once you get memorization down. There are other grammar terms that also use する and なる at times, but that is for another topic.

That's it for today's lesson! これが終わります！ありがとうございました。

Source(s) I Have Used for Additional Information:

Adjective + する & なる-maggiesensei.com

Illustration was made by yours-truly

[sakurabud]

Sports Festival 運動会

こんにちは皆さん！私はサクラです。For today's post, we will be talking about Sports Festivals in Japan. Although I am a little over a week late from posting this, I believe this is a good time for me to talk about one of the most well known events that take place in Japan. But what is a sports festival and what happens during such an event?

1. History

This event was created back in the Meji period and was first held in the 1870s. It's origins are related to the western culture. However, Japan's militarization and its opposition to the West would result in making sports festivals a unique part of the Japanese Culture. To this day, this event is practiced in many schools in Japan.

2. Before The Festival

A typical sports festival is usually held on the first week of September, but this kind of event requires a great amount of preparation. According to an article, the estimation of setting up the festival is a little over two weeks. Preparation takes place before and after school, during lunch breaks and even during home room periods. Additionally, the staff and students would work on the event during Sundays and holidays as well. And mind you, once the sports festival is over, the students, the staff, and even family members of the students pitch in to clean up.

3. The Festival

The sports festival begins with an opening ceremony and involves speeches and the national anthem. Then there is calisthenics, where students will stretch and make poses. Once that is over, teams are made, and the games begin.There are many different types of events that are held. Among them are tug-of-war, relay races, and even dance competitions. Of course, there are also a lot of cheering involved and almost all activities are group competition.

4. Afterwards

When the events are over, the teams rest while the teachers tally the scores. Afterwards, there is a closing ceremony where the winning team is announced and given a trophy. A few speeches later, the Japanese flag is lowered and folded. Everyone pitches in to clean, then the students and the teachers go back to their home rooms to review the day's events. Once that is over, the students spend the time gathering to take pictures and other things. After they leave, the teachers celebrate by having a party where there is a lot of eating, drinking, and yes, more speeches. Then there is a second party or an after party. And some intense partygoers have another party after that one.

Obviously, sports festivals are one of the most well known events in Japanese culture. Although you can only find them in schools and nowhere else, it is amazing to see students, teachers, and many more people cooperate to create an event. I suggest you look into it in case you ever go to a Japanese school during the early autumn.

That’s it for today’s lesson! これが終わります！ありがとうございました。

Source(s) I Have Used for Additional Information:

Surviving Sports Festival: Undoukai in Japanese Schools-www.tofugu.com

Teaching English Abroad: The Remarkable School Sports Festival in Japan-www.oxfordseminars.com

Illustration was made by yours-truly.

[sakurabud]

Transitive and Intransitive Verbs 他動詞と自動詞

こんにちは皆さん！私はサクラです。For Today's post, we will be talking about Transitive and Intransitive verbs. In the Japanese language, learning about verbs can be pretty complex. One of the reasons why is because some verbs will have two variants of the same verb and are considered transitive and intransitive. In order to know the difference between the two types of verbs, besides the formatting, one should take the time to see how they are demonstrated.

1. Transitive

Transitive verbs are used when the topic of the sentence does something with an object or when a verb does something to an object. In such sentences, を (o) follows the transitive verb. Keep in mind that sometimes the topic of the sentence is omitted.

Examples

私はドアを開けます。

Watashi wa doa o akemasu.

I open the door.

ろうそくを消します。

Rousoku o keshimasu.

She blows out the candle.

犬は服を汚します。

Inu wa fuku o yogoshimasu.

The dog made the clothes dirty.

2. Intransitive

Intransitive verbs are used when there is no object that is being targeted. Such verbs do not do anything to something else. There have been also cases of intransitive verbs used when an inanimate object does something. For example, 「ドアが開きました」(doa ga akimashita), which means "the door opened," indicates that the door is doing the verb all by itself. Additionally, I have noticed that in many sentences, が (ga) comes before the intransitive verb.

Examples

おもちゃが落ちてしまいました。

Omocha ga ochiteshimaimashita.

Unfortunately, the toy dropped.

停電があったので、電気が消えました。

Teiden ga atta node, denki ga kiemashita.

Because we had a power outage, the electricity went out.

ゲームが始まりました。

Ge-mu ga hajimarimashita.

The game just started.

Although this topic can be a bit complicated, it is best if one takes the time to figure out when to use either a transitive or an intransitive verb. Before I go, it would be best if I were to show some of the verbs that have transitive and intransitive versions.

Transitive

開ける (akeru)-to open

閉める (shimeru)-to close

入れる (ireru)-to put something in

出す (dasu)-to take something out

つける (tsukeru)-to turn something on

消す (kesu)- to turn something off

壊す (kowasu)-to break something

汚す (yogosu)-to make dirty

落とす (otosu)-to drop something

沸かす (wakasu)-to boil water

Intransitive

開く (aku)-something opens

閉まる (shimaru)-something closes

入る (hairu)-something enters or goes inside

出る (deru)-something goes out

つく (tsuku)-something turns on

消える (kieru)-something turns off

壊れる (kowareru)-something breaks

汚れる (yogoreru)-something becomes dirty

落ちる (ochiru)-something drops

沸く (waku)-water boils

That's it for today's lesson! これが終わります！ありがとうございました。

Source(s) I Have Used for Additional Information:

Japanese Transitive and Intransitive Verbs-www.tofugu.com

Transitive and Intransitive Verbs in Japanese-thetruejapan.com

Transitive, not Transvestite!-www.guidetojapanese.org

Illustration was made by yours-truly.

[sakurabud]

Passive, Causative, and Causative-Passive Verbs 受動態、使役、と受動態の使役

こんにちは皆さん！私はサクラです。For today's post, we will be talking about Passive, Causative, and Causative-Passive verbs. Sometimes, we find ourselves in unwanted situations. For example, you could be forced to doing something you hate or someone does something much to your dismay. But how do you know which verb to use? In order to figure out, it is best to look at the verb forms and how they are used.

1. Passive

Passive verbs are used when someone does something that irks you. For example, if a friend were to make your room messy and you are upset about it, you could say 「私は友達に部屋をめちゃくちゃになられました」(Watashi wa tomodachi ni heya o mechakucha ni nararemashita). This can also apply when someone does something that bothers another person.

When making the sentences, have the victim be followed by the particle は and the perpetrator be followed by に. Afterwards, the action will be mentioned while using a passive verb. Keep in mind, when using a ru verb, you must combine the stem verb with られる (rareru). U verbs are a little similar, however the spelling will depend on the verb's final character. As for くる and する, their passive forms are こられる (korareru) and される (sareru).

Examples

彼女はジョンさんにふられました。

Kanojo wa jon san ni furaremashita.

She was dumped by John (and she was upset).

私は弟に音楽をうるさくなられました。

Watashi wa otouto ni ongaku o urusakunararemashita.

My younger brother made loud music (and I am mad).

彼は彼女にこられました。

Kare wa kanojo ni koraremashita.

She came to him (to his annoyance).

2. Causative

Causative verbs are used when someone makes somebody do something. This is not always negative, as sometimes these verbs are used when someone lets someone else do something. If a person were to say "He let me read a book," it would be「彼は私に本を読ませました」(Kare ha watashi ni hon o yomasemashita).

To make the sentences, although は and に are used, the person who directs the other person comes first while the performer comes after. For ru verbs, the stem verb is combined with させる (saseru). Just like their passive forms, u verbs are similar to ru verbs, however the spelling will depend on the verb's last character. For くる and する、the causative forms are こさせる (kosaseru) and させる (saseru).

Examples

先生は学生に毎週クイズをとらせました。

Sensei wa gakusei ni maishuu kuizu o torasemashita.

The teacher made the students take a quiz every week.

お姉さんは妹さんに服を着替えさせました。

Oneesan wa imoutosan ni fuku o kigaesasemashita.

The older sister let her younger sister change her clothes.

先輩は後輩にそうじをさせました。

Senpai wa kouhai ni souji o sasemashita.

The senior made her junior do some cleaning.

3.Causative-Passive

These verbs are basically passive versions of Causative verbs. Using these verbs indicates that someone was talked into doing something or forced to do something they do not want to do. For ru verbs and u verbs that end with す, the stem verb is combined with させられる (saserareru). U verbs have される (sareru) at the end, but again the spelling will depend on the last character. For くる and する, it is こさせられる (kosaserareru) and させられる (saserareru).

Examples

私はお母さんに野菜を食べさせられます。

Watashi wa okaasan ni yasai o tabesaseraremasu.

My mother forces me to eat vegetables.

ケテイーさんはお姉さんに部屋をそうじさせられました。

Kateiisan wa oneesan ni heya o soujisaseraremashita.

Katie's older sister made her clean the room.

ゆきさんは弟にその物を買わされます。

Yukisan wa otouto ni sonomono o kawasaremasu.

Yuki's younger brother forces her to by that item.

Whether using Passive, Causative or Causative-Passive verbs, it can be hard to know how to address anything upsetting in Japanese. However, knowing the correct situation and verb form is the key to explaining about an unwanted incident.

Here's a list for a quick review.

Passive

Ru verbs

食べる/食べます＝食べられる/食べられます

U verbs

行く/行きます＝行かれる/行かれます

待つ/待ちます＝待たれる/待たれます

読む/読みます＝読まれる/読まれます

泳ぐ/泳ぎます＝泳がれる/泳がれます

買う/買います＝買われる/買われます

話す/話します＝話される/話されます

死ぬ/死にます＝死なれる/死なれます

取る/取ります＝取られる/取られます

遊ぶ/遊びます＝遊ばれる/遊ばれます

Irregular Verbs

くる/きます＝こられる/こられます

する/します＝される/されます

Causative

Ru verbs

食べる/食べます＝食べさせる/食べさせます

U verbs

行く/行きます＝行かせる/行かせます

待つ/待ちます＝待たせる/待たせます

読む/読みます＝読ませる/読ませます

泳ぐ/泳ぎます＝泳がせる/泳がせます

買う/買います＝買わせる/買わせます

話す/話します＝話させる/話させます

死ぬ/死にます＝死なせる/死なせます

取る/取ります＝取らせる/取らせます

遊ぶ/遊びます＝遊ばせる/遊ばせます

Irregular Verbs

くる/きます＝こさせる/こさせます

する/します＝させる/させます

Causative-passive

Ru verbs and U verbs that end with す 食べる/食べます＝食べさせられる/食させべられます

話す/話します＝話させられる/話させられます

U verbs

行く/行きます＝行かされる/行かされます

待つ/待ちます＝待たされる/待たされます

読む/読みます＝読まされる/読まされます

泳ぐ/泳ぎます＝泳がされる/泳がされます

買う/買います＝買わされる/買わされます

死ぬ/死にます＝死なされる/死なされます

取る/取ります＝取らされる/取らされます

遊ぶ/遊びます＝遊ばされる/遊ばされます

Irregular Verbs

くる/きます＝こさせられる/こさせられます

する/します＝させられる/させられます

That's it for today's lesson! これが終わります！ありがとうございました。

Illustration was made by yours-truly.

[sakurabud]

Honorific and Humble Language 尊敬語と謙譲語

こんにちは皆さん！私はサクラです。For today's post, we will be talking about honorific and humble verbs in the Japanese language. I am pretty sure everyone has been gotten onto for not speaking appropriately at some point in their lives. Like English, in Japan you have to consider how to talk to others, especially in a formal setting. Unfortunately, because Japanese contains countless verbs and variations of how to use a verb depending on the situation, knowing the right way to say something based on formality can be difficult. However, the best way to start learning how to speak Japanese regarding formality would be to learn the appropriate verbs. Here are some of the necessary verbs one has to know when considering formality.

1.いる (iru)

いる means "to be" or "to exist" for animate nouns. When the Japanese say that someone whom they respect is somewhere, they would use the verb いらっしゃる (Irassharu). However, if a person were to humbly speak about where they were, they would use おる (oru). Another important thing to note is that when using te forms for both honorific and humble language, both these verbs are used at the end of the verb. For example, if you were to say "I am studying," you would say 「私は勉強しております」(Watashi wa benkyoushiteorimasu) Examples

先生は授業にいらっしゃいません。

Sensei wa jyugyou ni irasshaimasen.

My teacher is not in the classroom.

私は図書館におります。

Watashi wa toshokan ni orimasu.

I am in the library.

彼女は本を読んでいらっしゃいます。

Kanojo wa hon o yondeirasshaimasu.

She is reading a book.

デートがあるので、レストランを探しております。

De-to ga aru node, resutoran o sagashiteorimasu.

I am finding a restaurant because I have a date.

2.行く (iku) and 来る (kuru) 行く means "to go" and 来る means "to come." However, in formal setting, a single verb can be used for both meanings. When talking about a higher-up, one uses the same いらっしゃる. However, if someone were to say, "I'm going to the convenience store" in a humble way, they have to say 「私はコンビニに参ります」(Watashi ha konbini ni mairimasu).

Examples

社長は建物にいらっしゃいました。

Shachou wa tatemono ni irasshaimashita.

The manager came to the building.

私は本屋に参りました。

Watashi wa honya ni mairimashita.

I went to the bookstore.

先生は駅にいらっしゃいます。

Sensei wa eki ni irasshaimasu.

The teacher is going to the train station.

3.食べる (taberu) and 飲む (nomu)

The former is "to eat," and the latter is "to drink," but when speaking formally or humbly, a single verb can be used for eating and drinking. When speaking about someone who has a higher status than you, you have to use 召し上がる (meshiagaru). But if you were to say you ate something in a formal setting, you have to use いただく(itadaku), which actually sounds like what the Japanese would say before eating their meal. It is also the formal way to say もらう (morau), which means "to receive."

Examples

私は晩ご飯をいただきます。

Watashi wa bangohan o itadakimasu.

I am going to eat dinner.

先輩はお弁当を召し上がっています。

Senpai wa obentou o meshiagatteimasu.

Senpai is eating a bento.

先生はよくコーヒを召し上がります。

Sensei wa yoku ko-hi o meshiagarimasu.

Oftentimes the teacher will drink coffee.

4.する (suru)

する means "to do" and there are two different verbs used for formal setting. If talking about a higher-up doing something, なさる (nasaru) is used, whereas いたす (itasu) is what we use when speaking humbly about ourselves.

Examples

私は勉強いたしてよかったです。

Watashi wa benkyou itashite yokattadesu.

It's a good thing I have studied.

先生は料理をなさったことがありますか？

Sensei wa ryouri o nasatta koro ga arimasu ka?

Has the teacher cooked before?

私はそれをいたしました。

Watashi wa sore o itashimashita.

I have done that.

5.言う (iu)

言う means "to say." If you were to state what your boss said in Japanese, you have to use おっしゃる (ossharu). For yourself, you must use 申す (mousu).

Examples

彼はちょっと遅れているとおっしゃっていました。

Kare wa chotto okureteiru to osshatteimashita.

He said he would be running a bit late.

サクラと申します。

Sakura to moushimasu.

My name is Sakura.

先生はおっしゃったので、お聞きしました。

Sensei wa osshatta node okikishimashita.

Because the teacher was speaking, I listened.

6. Other Verbs

In the Japanese language, there are many other verbs that are used in place of typical verbs when speaking formally. However, some end up being formatted differently. For example, if one were to say "Mr. Tanaka was reading," they would say 「たなかさんはお読みになりました。」(Tanaka san wa oyomininarimashita). However, for yourself, the ending of of the verb should be します (shimasu) rather than なります (narimasu).

Examples

先生はよくお泳ぎになります。

Sensei wa yoku ooyogininarimasu.

Oftentimes, the teacher swims.

アメリカにお帰りするつもりです。

Amerika ni okaerisuru tsumori desu.

I am planning to return to America. 私はスピーチをお作りしました。

Watashi wa supi-chi wo otsukurishimashita.

I have created my speech.

One of the reasons why Japanese is a complex language is because of the fact one has to be really cautious when speaking in a certain setting. It is one of the most frustrating things about being a foreigner. However, with good practice, it can lead to a less awkward and more pleasant conversation. Here are some other verbs that can be useful when speaking in a formal setting.

Honorific Verbs (When talking about those who you highly respect)

ご覧になる (goranninaru)-to see, equivalent to 見る (miru)

くださる (kudasaru)-to give to you/someone else, equivalent to くれる (kureru)

お休みになる (oyasumininaru)-to sleep, equivalent to 寝る (neru) Humble Verbs (When talking about yourself)

ござる (gozaru)-to be or exist for inanimate objects, equivalent to ある (aru)

でござる (degozaru)-something is, equivalent to です (desu)

差し上げる (sashiageru)-to give to someone or do something for someone, equivalent to あげる (ageru)

That’s it for today’s lesson! これが終わります！ありがとうございました。 

Illustration was made by yours-truly

PS: My apologies for not posting in a while. The past few weeks have been a bit eventful and there is a chance it might get busier for the next month or so. However, I will try to post every week if I can. ありがとうございました。

[sakurabud]

Etiquette Basics 基本的な礼儀

こんにちは皆さん！私はサクラです。For today's post, we are going to talk about etiquette. When visiting another country, one has to expect that there are different etiquette rules to follow. Japan is no different. There are many rules to follow in Japan, so for today I will be going over the most basic etiquette tips in Japan.

1. Bowing

In Western cultures, it is common to shake hands when greeting one and another. However, in Japan, the natives would not only bow to greet, but also to give thanks or apologize to someone. 

Keep in mind, the lower and longer the bow, the more respect you give to the other person. For example, an employee would bow lower when greeting their higher-ups.

2. Shoes

When entering a house, one has to make sure to take off their shoes before going inside a home. In such cases, one should try to find where others take off their shoes and then follow suit.

One can wear slippers while being inside a house, however if you enter a room with tatami floors, you have to take off your slippers as well. These bamboo floors can get easily damaged by shoes. Finally, if you go to a house in Japan and use the restroom, look out for slippers. These shoes are to be worn when going to the restroom.

3. Chopsticks

At a restaurant in Japan, it is common to use chopsticks for eating foods. There are many rules as to how to use the chopsticks. For example, the larger part of the chopsticks is used to take food from a shared plate. When using chopsticks, one should never use them for pointing or for spearing food. If you have a bowl of rice, you must never stick chopsticks inside the bowl.  And you must never pass food from chopsticks to chopsticks. This is because it is too similar to a ritual being performed at a funeral.

Keep in mind, if you are in Japan, there may be cases where using different utensils or even using your hands would be appropriate. If you eat a European dish, expect to use forks and knives.

4. Onsen

When going to an onsen, there are a handful of rules for bathing in a hot springs. For example, one has to first clean themselves before entering the baths. Also, you are not allowed to wear anything when entering the baths. Even if you have washed your hair, dunking yourself into an onsen is frowned upon. In case you have long hair, take a hair tie to pull your hair back.

There are many more etiquette rules when going to Japan, but these are the most common tips centering on Japanese etiquette. It can be scary when going to another country and not knowing how to properly behave. However, if one spends the time to learn about the etiquette of another country, visiting another country can be less problematic.

That’s it for today’s lesson! これが終わります！ありがとうございました。

Source(s) I Have Used for Additional Information:

Beginner’s Guide to Japanese Onsen Etiquette-findthepearlstravel.com

Chopsticks-www.japan-guide.com

Japanese Chopsticks Etiquette-12 Things Not to Do-smilenihongo.com

Japanese Etiquette 101: Essential Tips & Taboos-boutiquejapan.com

Japanese Greeting-www.japan-guide.com

Taking Off Shoes in Japan-alt.npo-glad.org

Illustration was made by yours-truly.

[sakurabud]

Giving あげる

こんにちは皆さん！私はサクラです。For today's post, we are going to talk about giving. Giving things to someone in Japan is quite common; if you go on a trip, you have to bring a souvenir. Doing something for someone and vice-versa is also considered giving. Naturally, to give something in japan is complicated. For one thing, you have to be mindful of the grammar you use. Here are the three crucial words to know when giving.

1.あげる (ageru)

あげる is the word you use when you or someone gives another person something or does something for that person. When using this, you must have は or が after the giver and then に after the receiver. Also, if you are trying to say that you or someone else does an action, you must use the te form of the verb before あげる.

Examples

私は弟にオレンジジュースをあげます。

Watashi wa otouto ni orenji jyussu o agemasu.

I give my younger brother orange juice.

彼は女の人に花をあげました。

Kare wa onna no hito ni hana o agemasu.

He gave flowers to the woman.

アミさんはジョンさんに洗濯をしてあげます。

Ami san wa jon san ni sentaku o shite agemasu.

Amy does the laundry for John.

2.くれる (kureru)

くれる is used when somebody is giving something or does something for you or someone else. Typically, the giver is followed by が and the recipient is followed by に. However, if the sentence involves you being as the recipient, oftentimes 私に is omitted. And of course, te form verbs are used when someone does something for you or someone else.

Examples

お母さんがご飯を作ってくれます。

Okaasan ga gohan o tsukutte kuremasu.

My mother makes a meal for me.

たろうさんがチョコレートをくれました。

Tarou san ga chokoretto o kuremashita.

Taro gave me chocolates. 彼女はたろうさんに仕事を手伝ってくれます。

Kanojo wa tarou san ni shigoto o tetsudatte kuremasu.

She helps Taro with work.

3.もらう (morau)

もらう is similar to the term くれる, because both words are used when someone does or gives something to you or to someone else. However it is a bit different. The best English term for もらう would be "to receive." Additionally, the sentence would start with mentioning the recipient, followed by the giver. The recipient can be followed by は or が whereas the particle following the giver is に. Sometimes から can be used in place of に, however, that will only happen when you or someone receives an item from someone else. One more thing, you cannot use 私 as a giver since the subject is the recipient.

Examples 私は先生に地図をもらいました。

Watashi wa sensei ni chizu o moraimashita.

I received a map from my teacher.

ケンさんはアレクサンダーさんにお茶を入れてもらいます。

Ken san wa arekusandaa san ni ocha o iretemoraimashita.

Ken had Alexander make tea for himself.

彼は弟から手紙をもらいました。

Kare wa otouto kara tegami o moraimashita.

He received a letter from my younger brother. 

Giving is a complicated thing in the Japanese culture. I have only mentioned some of the verbs one needs to know related to giving. Besides these terms, one also has to consider other parts of the Japanese language related to this subject, such as knowing how to ask someone to do something. Additionally, there are etiquette rules related to giving, such as bringing a souvenir after traveling.

Despite it's complexity, it is also one of the most unique traits about the Japanese culture. If giving was not valued in Japan, the culture might be a tad different.That's it for today's lesson! これが終わります！ありがとうございました。

Source(s) I Have Used for Additional Information:

How to ask for a favor/make a request-maggiesensei.com

Japanese Gifting Etiquette-trulyexperiences.com

Japanese Gift Giving-japanahome.com

Illustration was made by yours-truly

[sakurabud]

Because...から...

こんにちは皆さん！私はサクラです。Today we are going to be talking about the different ways of saying "because," "for that reason," and other similar terms. For some, it can be frustrating when people make excuses such as "There was heavy traffic," or "It's too heavy," and other things. However, if you find yourself in a situation where something happens or you cannot do certain things, you may need to explain yourself. Here are several terms that can help you in such a predicament.

1.から (Kara)

から translates to "because" and is used to explain the reason or cause of a situation, suggestion and other things. There are two ways to go about using this. One can state the situation, then explain in the next sentence and end it with から. Another version has から in the middle, where the reason is stated early before the situation. Keep in mind, when using the latter, you must make sure that the reason is in short form.  For example, if you want to say "I did not go out because it was raining" while using the first version, you would say 「私は出かけませんでした。雨が降っていましたから」(Watashi wa dekakemasendeshita. Ame ga futteimashita kara). However, if you use the second version, you would have to say 「雨が降っていたから、私は出かけませんでした」(Ame ga futteita kara, watashi wa dekakemasendeshita).

Examples 私の猫がいないから、悲しいです。

Watashi no neko ga inai kara, kanashii desu.

Because my cat is not here, I am sad.

ちこくしました。私は事故がありましたから。

Chikokushimashita. Watashi wa jiko ga arimashita.

I was arriving late. This is because I had an accident.

せいせきがよくなかったから、彼はちょっと怒っています。

Seiseki ga yokunakatta kara, kare wa chotto okotteimasu.

Because the grade was not good, he is a little mad.

２．ので (Node)

This term is used similarly to how から is used when explaining the reason first and the situation second. However, ので is more formal. Additionally, if you were to use Na adjectives or nouns before stating the situation, the spelling will depend on which term you will use. If you said, "Because she's a student, she's studying a lot" and choose to use から、you would have to say 「彼女は学生だから、たくさん勉強しています」(Kanojo wa gakusei da kara, takusan benkyoushiteimasu). However, if you use ので、you would say 「彼女は学生なので、たくさん勉強しています」(Kanojo wa gakusei na node, takusan benkyoushiteimasu).

Examples

彼が元気なので、私も元気です。

Kare ga genki na node, watashi mo genki desu.

Because he is fine, I am as well.

この授業が難しいので、心配します。

Kono jyugyou ga muzukashii node, shinpaishimasu.

Because this class is hard, I worry.

彼が警察なので、よく働いています。

Kare ga keisatsu na node, yoku hataraiteimasu.

Because he is a police officer, he oftentimes works.

3. し (Shi)

For sentences that have more than one reason, it would be useful to use し. Using し, one can list the various reasons for the situation. However, one can also just say one reason to show that it is not the only cause behind the situation. If you said, "This year has been fun because, for one thing, I go out more often," it would be 「よく出かけるし、今年は楽しいです」(Yoku dekakerushi, kotoshi wa tanoshii desu). One can list the reasons before or after the situation, however you must make sure these reasons are in short forms. You also have to use だ for Na adjectives and nouns.

Examples

日本の文化が面白いし、食べ物がおいしいし、日本に行きたいです。

Nihon no bunka ga omoshiroishi, tabemono ga oishiishi, nihon ni ikitai desu.

Because the Japanese culture is interesting and the food is delicious, I want to go to Japan.

ジョンさんは行けません。彼は病気だし、今、車がないし。

Jon san wa ikemasen. Kare wa byoukidashi, ima, kuruma ga naishi.

John can't go out. He is sick and doesn't have a car right now.

4. ため、結果 (Tame, kekka)

ため and 結果 can be use interchangeably, but the former can be used to state the reason rather than saying "For this/that reason," or "Because of this/that."

Examples

その結果、来週が忙しいかもしれません。

Sonokekka, raishuu ga isogashii kamoshiremasen.

Because of that, next week might be busy.

このため、これが買えません。

Konotame, kore ga kaemasen.

For this reason, I cannot buy this.

昨日の夜、忙しすぎたため、早く起きませんでした。

Kinou no yoru, isogashisugita tame, hayaku okimasendeshita.

Because I was too busy last night, I did not get up early.

Stating the reason for a situation can be hard, especially if it is out of your control. But, if you know how to use these terms properly, it can be less daunting.That's it for today's lesson! これが終わります！ありがとうございました。

Illustration was made by yours-truly

[sakurabud]

Where is It? どこですか？

こんにちは皆さん！私はサクラです。For today's post, we will be talking about vocabulary words used to describe where something is. In one of our earlier posts,  ここ (koko)、そこ(soko) and あそこ(asoko) are used to describe a place, but did you know they can also be used to describe where something is? For example, if someone were to ask 「本屋はどこですか」 (Honya wa doko desu ka) or "Where is the bookstore," and you answer "it's over there," you would say 「あそこです」（Asoko desu). However, it may be more idealistic if you were to specify where the object is. Here are some of the terms that may be helpful when describing a location.

1.右 (migi) and 左 (hidari) 右 means "Right" and 左 means "Left." When using those terms to describe where it is, you would say something is to the right or to the left of something. Examples

公園はデパートの左です。

Kouen wa depaato no hidari desu.

The park is to the left of the department store. アミさんはたろうさんの左です。

Ami san wa tarou san no hidari desu.

Amy is to the left of Taro. 郵便局はバス停の右です。

Yuubinkyoku wa basutei no migi desu.

The post office is to the right of the bus stop.

2.前 (mae), 後ろ（ushiro) and 間 (aida) For location, 前 means "front," 後ろ means "back," and 間 means "in between." Keep in mind, when saying something is between two things, you have to say (Subject) は (item 1) と (item 2) の間です.

Examples

レストランは公園の前です。

Resutoran wa kouen no mae desu.

The restaurant is in front of the park.

きっさてんは 映画館の後ろです。

Kissaten wa eigakan no ushirou desu.

The cafe is behind the movie theater.

ゆみさんはケンさんとアレクサンダーさんの間です。

Yumi san wa ken san to arekusandaa san no aida desu.

Yumi is between Ken and Alexander. 3. 上 (ue), 下 (shita) and 中 (naka) 上 means "above" or "on," 下 means "below" or "under," and 中 means "inside." Besides locations, these terms can be useful for describing where objects are in a room as well.

Examples

私の本はつくえの上です。

Watashi no hon wa tsukue no ue desu.

My book is on top of the desk.

猫は箱の中だと思います。

Neko wa hako no naka da to omoimasu.

I think the cat is inside the box. かばんはいすの下です。

Kaban wa isu no shita desu.

The bag is under the chair.

4.近く(chikaku) and 隣 (tonari) The former means "near" or "nearby" while the latter means "next to." Because these words seem similar, when using this, you will need to consider the distance in order to use the correct one.

Examples ケンさんは冷水機の近くです。

Ken san wa reisuiki no chikaku desu.

Ken is near the water cooler.

アイスクリームはお菓子の隣です。

Aisukuri-mu wa okashi no tonari desu.

The ice cream is next to the candy.

プリンターはオフイスの近くです。

Purintaa wa ofuisu no chikaku desu.

The printer is near the office. There is a chance there are other words to describe where things are. But these terms are the most common terms to describe where something is. The main thing is to make sure to use them properly when the question of where something is arises.

That’s it for today’s lesson! これが終わります！ありがとうございました！

Source(s) I Have Used for Additional Information: 

koko, soko, asoko, doko-www.japanesewithanime.com

Illustration was made by yours-truly

[sakurabud]

Frequency Adverbs 回数の副詞

こんにちは皆さん！私はサクラです。For today's post, we will be talking about frequency adverbs. When talking to people or friends in Japan, sometimes they might ask you if you do a certain activity very often or not all the time. Without knowing how to answer properly, it can be a little troublesome. With that said, here are some useful words to explain how frequent you perform an activity.

1.よく（yoku)

よく means "often," and you would use this term to describe things you or someone else does more than "sometimes," but not as frequent as "usually." If you were to say, "I often come here," you would say 「よくここに行きます」(yoku koko ni ikimasu).

Examples

私はよく新聞を読みます。

Watashi wa yoku shinbun o yomimasu

.I often read the newspaper.

よく歌いますか？

Yoku utaimasuka?

Do you oftentimes sing?

2.たいてい (taitei)

たいてい would be "usually" in English. If you do an activity more than often, you would use たいてい. Using this term also means that the subject of the sentence does said verb on a regular basis.

Examples

彼はたいていコーヒーメーカーを使います。

Kare wa taitei ko-hi-me-ka o tsukaimasu.

He regularly uses the coffee machine.

私はたいてい教科書で勉強します。

Watashi wa taitei kyoukasho de benkyoushimasu.

I usually study with a textbook.

ジョンさんはたいてい四時に家に帰ります。

Jon san wa taitei yoji ni ie ni kaerimasu.

John usually returns home at four.

3.時々（tokidoki)

時々 means "sometimes." It is used when someone does something more than occasionally but not frequently.

Examples

私は時々心理について書きます。

Watashi wa tokidoki shinri nitsuite kakimasu.

I sometimes write about philosophy.

はい、時々アイスクリームを食べます。

Hai, tokidoki aisukuri-mu o tabemasu.

Yes, sometimes I eat ice cream.

アミさんは時々コーヒを飲みます。

Ami san wa tokidoki co-hi o nomimasu.

Amy sometimes drinks coffee.

4.あまり(amari)

あまり relates to よく, but it is the polar opposite of it. The closest translation for this term would be "not very often." Compared to the other adverbs mentioned, you must make sure that the verb is in negative form. This is because you are saying the subject of the sentence is not doing said verb often.

Examples

いいえ、あまり新聞を読みません。

Iie, amari shinbun o yomimasen.

No, I do not read the newspapers much.

私はあまり郵便局に行きません。

Watashi wa amari yuubinkyoku ni ikimasen.

Not very often would I go to the post office.

たろうさんはあまりロックを聞きません。

Tarou san wa amari rokku o kikimasen.

Taro does not listen to rock music very often.

5.全然 (zenzen)

全然 is Japanese for "never" or "not at all." This is the adverb you would use if you or someone does not perform said verb at all. Of course, like あまり, the verb must be in negative form.

Examples

私は全然タバコをすいません。

Watashi wa zenzen tabako o suimasen.

I never smoke tobacco/cigarette/etc.

その人は全然宿題をしません。

Sono hito wa zenzen shukudai o shimasen.

That person never does homework.

全然バレイを見ません。

Zenzen barei o mimasen.

I do not watch ballet at all.

6.いつも (itsumo)

いつも means "always" in Japanese. When someone says they always perform a certain verb, then they would use いつも. However, you must be very careful. If you were to say 「私はいつも読みます」(Watashi wa itsumo yomimasu) or "I am always reading," the listener might expect you to carry a book every single day.

Examples

彼はいつも大騒ぎします。

Kare wa itsumo oosawagishimasu.

He always makes an uproar.

彼女はいつも文句を言われています。

Kanojo wa itsumo mongu o iwareteimasu.

She always complaining (much to my annoyance).

夏の間に、ジョンさんはいつも水を飲みます。

Natsu no aida ni, Jon san wa itsumo mizu o nomimasu.

During the summer, John always drinks water.

7.毎日 (mainichi)

毎日 literally means "everyday." It is a bit different from いつも because if someone does something everyday, it could mean that they do it once a day rather than all the time.

Examples

毎日出かける前に歯を磨きます。

Mainichi, dekakeru mae ni ha wo migakimasu.

Everyday, I would brush my teeth before going out.

毎日彼は泣いてしまいました。

Mainichi kare wa naiteshimaimashita.

(To my regret) He cries everyday.

毎日洗濯をします。

Mainichi sentaku o shimasu.

I do the laundry every day.

These adverbs can let the listener know when you perform certain activities. Additionally, they can also give you an idea of how frequent the person in the sentence does something. If you can remember when to use a negative or a positive verb for the adverb, using these adverbs will be a simple task.That’s it for today’s lesson! これが終わります！ありがとうございました！

Source(s) I have used for Additional Information:

Difference Between “Usually” and “Often”-www.differencebetween.net

Japanese lessons 10-Frequency adverbs in Japanese-js-language.com

Illustration was made by yours-truly

[sakurabud]

Particles 助詞

こんにちは皆さん！私はサクラです。For today's post, we will be talking about particles used in the Japanese language. When making a sentence, it involves nouns, verbs, and even adjectives. Knowing the proper words to use can be beneficial when speaking Japanese. However, knowing when to use the right particle can be tricky. After all, they tend to follow after the noun, verb and adjective. For this post, I will be listing the most common particles used in Japanese.

1. は（wa) Although it is pronounced the same way as わ（wa)、は is used in this place. It is used to mark the topic of the sentence or something that is the center of the sentence or conversation. So a noun or personal pronoun would be before は. The English counterpart would be "am", "is, and "are."　

Examples:

私はサクラです。

Watashi wa sakura desu.

My name is Sakura.

これはケンさんのノートです。

Kore wa ken san no nooto desu.

This is Ken's notebook.

それは高いです。

Sore wa takai desu.

That is tall. Or That is expensive.

2. が（ga） For some who learn Japanese, が tends to be hard to be distinguish from は. But typically, when が appears, it would be used to differentiate the topic from the subject. For example, 「この人は髪が長いです」（Kono hito wa kami ga nagai desu)、means "this person has long hair." Although the topic is "this person," the subject is "hair." Using this term will help differentiate between two objects in a sentence.

Examples: 私は猫がいます。

Watashi wa neko ga imasu.

I have a cat. アミさんは日本語が好きです。

Ami san wa nihongo ga suki desu.

Amy likes Japanese.

3. で(de) In a sentence, で is oftentimes attached to a location or a noun. For the former, it would mean that something happens at the said place. However, in case it is attached to a noun, it usually means that the person is able to do something while using the object. For example, if the person says he went to the park by a bike, he would say 「私は自転車で公園に行きました」(Watashi wa jitensha de kouen ni ikimashita).

Examples: 私は図書館で勉強しています。

Watashi wa toshokan de benkyoushiteimasu.

I am studying in the library.

彼は車で家に帰りました。

Kare wa kuruma de ie ni kaerimashita.

He returned home by car.

4. を (o) を、which is pronounced "o," follows the direct object. It also tends to come before the verb. For example, in the sentence 「アミさんはコーヒーを飲みます」（Ami san wa ko-hi- o nomimasu), or "Amy drinks coffee," the direct object is コーヒー and the verb is 飲みます. Examples: 私はJポップを聞きます。

Watashi wa J poppu o kikimasu.

I listen to J-pop.

マイカルさんは絵をかきます。

Maikaru san wa e o kakimasu.

Michael paints a picture. 5. に (ni) For に、it tends to be used for many things. Most commonly, it would indicate the time, place or direction.  If someone said 「私は大学に行きます」(Watashi wa daigaku ni ikimasu), it means that person goes to a college, with college being the location the speaker goes to. And if you were to say "I am cooking at 7pm," you would say 「私は午後七時に料理をしています」(Watashi wa gogo shichiji ni ryouri o shiteimasu).

Examples:

私は八時に寝ます。

Watashi wa hachiji ni nemasu.

I sleep at eight.

ケテイさんは三時に家に帰りました。

Ketei san wa sanji ni ie ni kaerimashita.

Katy returned to her house at three.

彼は午後四時にお茶を飲みます。

Kare wa gogo yoji ni ocha o nomimasu.

He drinks tea at 4pm. 6. へ（e) へ、which is pronounced "e," is similar to に because it also indicates the place and direction. However, it is not used to indicate the time. The most common English translation for へwould be "towards."

Examples:

彼女はスーパーへ行きます。

Kanojo wa su-pa- e ikimasu.

She goes toward the supermarket.

私は家へ帰ります。

Watashi wa uchi e kaerimasu.

I returned to my home.

彼は学校へ行きます。

Kare wa gakkou e ikimasu.

He goes toward the school.

7. も（mo) も is used when there is a second item that share a common attribute with the first. One could use this when two or more people do the same activity. It is similar to the English word "too" and "also."

Examples:

私も二十歳です。

Watashi mo hatachi desu.

I am also twenty years old.

ジョンさんも音楽を聞きました。

Jon san mo ongaku o kikimashita.

John also listened to music.

これも安いです。

Kore mo yasui desu.

This is also inexpensive.

8. の（no) の is used as a possessive particle, such as saying someone owns something. This is similar to the possessive apostrophe s. It can also be used to indicate something is related to another object. However, you must be careful. If you are trying to say this is a college in England, you must say「これはイギリスの大学です」(Kore wa igirisu no daigaku desu). If you said 「これは大学のイギリスです」(Kore wa daigaku no igirisu desu), it would be grammatically incorrect.

Examples:

これはケンさんのくつです。

Kore wa ken san no kutsu desu.

These are Ken's shoes.

彼女は日本語の先生です。

Kanojo wa nihongo no sensei desu.

She is a Japanese Language teacher.

それは私の台所です。

Sore wa watashi no daidokoro desu.

That is my kitchen.

あれは大学の図書館です。

Are wa daigaku no toshokan desu.

That (over there) is the college's library. Using different particles can be tricky, especially since there are so many to use. However, if one wants to learn Japanese, these particles are the ones that have to be memorized.

That’s it for today’s lesson! これが終わります！ありがとうございました！

Source(s) I have used for Additional Information:

Japanese Grammar-Particles-nihongoichiban.com

What Are Japanese Particles?-www.clozemaster.com

Illustration was made by yours-truly

[sakurabud]

First, Second, and Third Person Pronouns 一人称、二人称、それに三人称代名詞

こんにちは皆さん！私はサクラです。For today's post, we will be talking about first, second, and third person pronouns. If you have watched anime, chances are you may have heard different types of pronouns referring to a person. Compared to English, these pronouns can vary depending on the person and the formality. For this post, I will be listing the most common pronouns used in Japanese.

1.First Person-私、僕、俺、あたし

These are the terms used to refer to oneself. It translates to ”I,” however these types of pronouns depends on the individual. The most basic first person to use is 私 (watashi), so if you spoke Japanese, the safest term to use would be this one. 僕（boku) and 俺(ore) are used by guys. However, the former is mostly used by boys and the latter tends to be used by guys who not only want to sound masculine, but also rough-around-the-edges. In anime, if a male character uses 僕、he tends to be a bit mild and quiet. Characters who use 俺 tend to be upfront and confident. If you are a guy, you have to be careful when using the term 俺、because one should not use it when talking in a workplace or in front of superiors. Finally, あたし（atashi) is a informal version of 私、but it is typically used by women. Of course, girls should not use this term in the same places guys should not use 俺.

Before I continue on, I should also mention that some females use the term 俺 and some males use the term あたし. Girls who use 俺 are those who tend to be tomboys or live in certain prefectures where females use that term. And guys who use あたし tend to be effeminate. 2.Second Person-あなた、お前、君、手前

Before I began this section, I want the readers to know that while these terms mean "you," it is very informal to use these terms. In fact, most of the time you will only hear some of them in anime. When talking to someone else, it is best to address them by their name.

In the Japanese language, あなた (anata) is the most basic way of saying "you." The only time it is okay to use this is if you don't know the person's name.  However, you should at least strive to ask and/or remember the person's name and use it. There have been cases where spouses use this term to refer to their husbands. お前 (omae) tends to be more informal compared to あなた. If a couple of friends are not concerned about using pronouns, they might use it. However, most people in Japan do not use it, especially in front of someone they do not know. Oftentimes, you would hear this in anime. 君 (kimi) is considered somewhat more common way of saying "you" in Japanese and the kanji is actually the same for くん（kun). It is considered condescending but it can also sound docile.  It would normally be used by those who are older or of higher status than the listener they are talking to. Both 君 and お前 imply some intimacy when used, however the latter is considered impolite. Finally, there is 手前（temee), which is a very informal way of saying you compared to お前. It is hardly used in real life and only anime characters and people who are cussing at someone would use it. 3.Third Person-彼、彼女、（この、その、あの）人、（この、その、あの）方、あいつ

For Third Person, 彼 (kare) means "he" while 彼女 (kanojo) means "she." However there are various ways of referring to someone other than yourself and the person you are speaking to. Additionally, depending on the word, they can be formal or informal. この人（kono hito)、その人 (sono hito)、and あの人 (ano hito) mean "this person," "that person," and "that person (over there)." They can be used in formal and informal settings. この方（kono kata), その方（sono kata) and あの方 (ano kata) literally means "this side," "that side," and "that side (over there)." However, these can be used in a very formal setting and can also mean "this person," "that person," and "that person (over there)." Finally we have あいつ. This is the most informal way of saying "that person," so you must be careful when using this term. Japanese is a complex language, and one reason is because of the different first, second, and third person pronouns. However, if one is able to take the time to practice these terms when speaking Japanese, one would be able to know when to appropriately use these pronouns.

Here's a list for a quick review.

First Person

私（watashi)-Standard "I"

僕（boku)-Used by boys and guys who want to sound milder.

俺（ore)-Used by men who want to sound masculine/tough and tomboys.

あたし(atashi)-Used by women and guys who are effeminate.

Second Person

あなた(anata)-Standard "you." Can be used by people who don't know the other person's name.

お前 (Omae)-More informal than あなた. Has been used by friends who do not care about pronoun usages and wives when speaking to their husbands.

君（kimi)-More common way of saying you, however it is normally used by those who are older/higher status than the person they are talking to (ex. 先輩（senpai）to a 後輩（kouhai）).

手前（temee)-More informal than お前、and is barely used. Only anime characters and people who cuss at others use this.

Third Person

彼（kare)-He

彼女(kanojo)-She

この人（kono hito)-This Person

その人（sono hito)-That Person

あの人（ano hito)-That Person (Over There)

この方（kono kata)-This Side, This Person (very formal)

その方（sono kata)-That Side, That Person (very formal)

あの方（ano kata)-That Side (Over There), That Person (Over There) (very formal)

あいつ (aitsu)-That Person (Very Informal)

That’s it for today’s lesson! これが終わります！ありがとうございました！

Source(s) I have used for Additional Information:

Anata,Omae,Temee,Kimi,Kisama-www.japanesewithanime.com

First Person Pronouns-www.japanesewithanime.com

Japanese Pronouns-I, You, He, She, They, This, That-www.japanesewithanime.com

Lesson 4. The Complete Guide of Pronouns in Japanese-http://lingo-apps.com

Illustration was made by yours-truly

[sakurabud]

Golden Week 黄金週間

こんにちは皆さん！私はサクラです。For today's post, we will be talking about Golden Week. Golden Week is one of the many well-known events in the Japanese culture; this occurrence is known to have more than one holiday held in a single week. It sounds very interesting, but in order to fully appreciate it, it is best to learn about what it is and what to do during that time frame. 1. What is Golden Week In Golden Week, there are four national holidays that are recognized during this week. The first holiday is called Showa Day. It is celebrated on April 29th, and it is the birthday of the late Emperor Showa. On May 3rd, Constitution Day is celebrated. It is the anniversary of the postwar constitution, which was established back in the year 1947. May 4th is Green day, and it was created because Emperor Showa was enamored with nature. Before 2006, this holiday was celebrated on the same day as Emperor Showa's birthday. However, due to laws related to holidays, that date was moved to May 4th. Finally, we have May 5th, which is Children's Day or the Boy's Festival. On that day, families would pray for good health and future success of their sons by hanging carp streamers and displaying samurai dolls. 2. Things to Do Because these holidays fall close together and there are weekends to consider, many people in Japan would have time off and kids would get a break from school. During that period, the Japanese would do various activities. Those who reside in Tokyo tend to travel somewhere else. Some partake in outdoor events such as viewing wisteria or azalea flowers and seeing historical parades. Because of how ideal the outdoor temperatures are, some might even go to the beach.

Unfortunately, because many people tend to travel around that time, planning the activities during Golden Week can become problematic. In order to avoid stress, it is advisable to make earlier reservations and allow extra time to accommodate delays in traveling. Also one could avoid tourists attractions and public transportation by pursuing activities and events nearby. 3. Silver Week Golden Week occurs once a year, however there is a particular week that would occur once every five to six years. It is called Silver Week, and it would occur during the late September. During that time, Respect for the Aged Day, Autumn Equinox, and the weekend would be combined into making a holiday period, which would last about the same length of time as Golden Week. The next time this happen will be in the year 2026, so be on the lookout when the time comes.

Golden Week is one of the most busiest holidays in Japan. It is a wonderful spectacle, however if you plan to partake in this event, be prepared for crowded areas such as trains stations, airports, and even sightseeing spots.

That’s it for today’s lesson! これが終わります！ありがとうございました！

Source(s) I have used for Additional Information:

Golden Week-www.japan-guide.com

Golden Week 2021: dates and travel tips-www.jrailpass.com

Illustration was made by yours-truly

[sakurabud]

Kosoado Pronouns こそあど言葉

こんにちは皆さん！私はサクラです。For today's post, we will be talking about the demonstrative and interrogative pronouns in the Japanese Language . Both English and Japanese have terms used to describe something to someone else such as "this" and "that." For this post, I will be listing the most common demonstrative and interrogative pronouns.

これ、それ、あれ

These terms describe an object without saying what exactly it is. If you talk about something close to you, you would say これ (kore)、which means "this." If you are referring to something that is some ways away from you and likely close to the listener, it would be それ (sore), or "that." And if you are talking about something far from you and the speaker, you would say あれ (are) or "that over there."

この、その、あの

This is similar to これ、それ、and あれ、however it states what the object is. For example, if you said "this book," you would say このほん (kono hon). Just make sure that you give the correct term for the object. You do not want to say "That bicycle over there," when you meant the one close to your friend.

ここ、そこ、あそこ

For these terms, you would use them to describe a place rather than an object. If you said "here," it would be ここ (koko). "There" would be そこ (soko) in Japanese, and "over there" would be あそこ (asoko)。

どれ、どの、どこ

These terms are a little different from the ones mentioned earlier. They ask about the object in question. どれ (dore) means "Which thing." どの (dono) is similar to the last statement, but it is inquiring about which specific thing. And of course, どこ (doko) is "Where."

There are more pronouns to describe other things. Some of them even mean the same thing but are of different formality. For example, こいつ (koitsu) and こちら (kochira) can mean "this person," but the latter is used in a casual setting whereas the former is the opposite.When speaking Japanese, one should try to memorize all the pronouns, but these terms are the ones you must especially memorize.

Here's a list for a quick review.

これ (kore)-This

それ (sore)-That

あれ (are)-That over there

この (kono)-This＿＿＿

その (sono)-That＿＿＿

あの (ano)-That＿＿＿＿ over there

ここ (koko)-Here

そこ (soko)-There

あそこ (asoko)-Over There

どれ (dore)-Which

どの (dono)-Which＿＿＿＿

どこ (doko)-Where

That's it for today's lesson! これが終わります！ありがとうございました！

Source(s) I Have Used for Additional Information:

Kosoado Kotoba-www.japanesewithanime.com

Illustration was made by yours-truly 

[sakurabud]

Japanese Honorifics 日本語の御

こんにちは皆さん！私はサクラです。For today's post, we will be talking about the Japanese Honorifics. In English, we use the honorifics such as "Mr.," "Mrs.," "Ms.," and even "Dr." to address people. The Japanese language is no different, and there are many ways to address someone. For this post, I will be listing some of the most common honorifics and when to properly use them.

さん

さん（san) is a widely used term in the Japanese language. It means "Mr.," "Mrs.," and "Ms.," and used regardless of gender, age, and status. If you were to meet or talk to a stranger, it would be best to use this term.

さま

さま（sama) is more formal than さん、 it is used for people who are of higher status. If you were to go to a shop, the staff would use the term おきゃくさま(okyakusama) to refer to you since customers are highly respected. The closest English equivalent would be "Sir" and "Madam." Sometimes, this term is used for a huge group of people or an audience such as 「皆様」（mina sama) which means "everyone." Other times, it is used for referring to Japanese deities or 「神様」 (kami sama).

くん

くん（kun) is used for those who are either of the speaker's status or younger than the speaker. It is not a formal term, so it tends to be used in casual settings. Oftentimes, it is used with boys and young men, however it has been used to address young women on certain occasions. Additionally, this term is used for romantic partners, male friends, and even relatives.

ちゃん

ちゃん（chan), is similar to くん, but it tends to be used for females who are of equal status or younger than the speaker. Additionally, it is used to refer to children, grandmothers, and even a close pet. Rumiko's mother might say, "Come eat your breakfast, Rumi-chan." Couples can use it to address each other, and sometimes people use it for someone they cherish. So whenever you refer to someone as ちゃん、be careful. It would be embarrassing if someone were to use it to address a person they are not so close to.

Aside from these four terms, there are many other honorifics one can use. Some are related to school such as 先生（sensei) or "teacher," and some are related to work such as 社長（shachou）, which is equivalent to "CEO." There are also unusual honorifics, such as たん（tan) and ぽん（pon). They are considered cutesy and have been used with babies and women. I suggest you would not use them in a formal setting.

The important thing is to realize when to use the correct term for a person regarding their age, status, and so forth. And one more thing, these honorifics are for third person and second person. Therefore, you must not use these terms when referring to your own self.

That's it for today's lesson! これが終わります！ありがとうございました！

Source(s) I Have Used for Additional Information:

Learn Japanese Honorifics: How to Show Respect In Japanese-www.mezzoguild.com

Sama, san, kun, chan: the many Japanese honorifics-gogonihon.com

Illustration was made by yours-truly

[sakurabud]

Hanami花見

こんにちは皆さん！私はサクラです。 For today's post, we will be talking about one of the most popular events in Japan called Hanami. If you have researched about the Japanese culture, chances are you have probably heard about the term Hanami or have seen a Hanami before. However, what is this sort of event, and how does one partake in a Hanami?

History

Hanami literally means "Flower viewing," and it is an event where people in Japan view cherry blossoms. This type of event is very traditional that it dated back to the Nara period, which was around the 700s. However, at that time, the flower that was viewed was another tree called Ume, a relative of the plum and the apricot. Also, this type of activity originated from China. However, after this custom became part of Japan's culture, the Sakura quickly became the show-stopping flower.

Timing

Of course, this type of activity occurs during the spring. However, because of the position of Japan, the timing of viewing this flower depends on the prefecture. For example, those who are in Hiroshima should expect flowers to bloom in March. Meanwhile, people who live in Sapporo will have to wait until May. Because the period of when the flowers bloom is a short time span, one would need to figure out when to go out as soon as possible. They also have to consider arriving early since spots and areas get taken easily, especially on the weekends.

Things to Do

When partaking in Hanami, one can do various activities. Besides looking at the blossoms, one can have a picnic and bring various items. Some people choose to take a stroll and be mesmerized by the soft pastel petals. And then there are some who choose to drink too much and do silly things as if it was an office party or something. Hanami is a scenery to witness in Japan. If you plan to go to Japan, please take the chance to partake in a Hanami. It is a calming and aesthetic experience. You don't wanna miss it.

That's it for today's lesson! これが終わります！ありがとうございました！

Source(s) I Have Used for Additional Information:

Japan Cherry Blossom 2021 Forecast-livejapan.com

What is Hanami: The Fun Way Japanese Enjoy Sakura Viewing-livejapan.com

What is Hanami?-jw-webmagazine.com

Illustration was made by yours-truly