When learning Japanese, one of the fundamental aspects you will encounter is the distinction between the plain form and the polite form. This distinction is crucial, not just for proper grammar, but for understanding social nuances and communicating effectively in different contexts. In this article, we’ll delve into the specifics of these forms, how they are used, and why they are essential for any Japanese language learner.
Understanding Plain Form
The plain form, also referred to as the informal form, is typically used in casual conversations among friends, family, and others with whom you share a close relationship. It is the form you’ll encounter in dictionaries, and it’s also the base form from which other conjugations are derived.
Plain Form of Verbs
Japanese verbs in their plain form can be categorized into three groups: Group 1 (u-verbs), Group 2 (ru-verbs), and irregular verbs.
1. **Group 1 (u-verbs)**: These verbs end in a consonant followed by ‘u’. For example:
– 書く (kaku) – to write
– 飲む (nomu) – to drink
2. **Group 2 (ru-verbs)**: These verbs end in ‘iru’ or ‘eru’. For example:
– 食べる (taberu) – to eat
– 見る (miru) – to see
3. **Irregular verbs**: There are only two irregular verbs in Japanese:
– する (suru) – to do
– 来る (kuru) – to come
The plain form is used in various grammatical structures, including casual speech, plain past tense, dictionary form, and within subordinate clauses.
Plain Form of Adjectives
Japanese adjectives can also be divided into two main categories: i-adjectives and na-adjectives.
1. **I-adjectives**: These end in ‘i’ and can be used in their plain form directly. For example:
– 高い (takai) – high, expensive
– 楽しい (tanoshii) – fun
2. **Na-adjectives**: These require the addition of ‘na’ when modifying nouns directly, but can be used in their base form otherwise. For example:
– きれい (kirei) – beautiful, clean
– 元気 (genki) – healthy, energetic
Plain Form of Nouns and Pronouns
Nouns and pronouns in Japanese do not change form based on plain or polite usage. However, the context in which they are used can affect the overall tone of the sentence. For example:
– 私 (watashi) – I, me
– 学校 (gakkou) – school
Understanding Polite Form
The polite form is essential for formal settings, interactions with strangers, superiors, or those to whom you wish to show respect. It is also the form used in most business environments and public settings.
Polite Form of Verbs
Converting verbs from their plain form to the polite form involves adding specific endings. For instance:
1. **Group 1 (u-verbs)**: Replace the ‘u’ with ‘imasu’. For example:
– 書く (kaku) becomes 書きます (kakimasu)
– 飲む (nomu) becomes 飲みます (nomimasu)
2. **Group 2 (ru-verbs)**: Replace ‘ru’ with ‘masu’. For example:
– 食べる (taberu) becomes 食べます (tabemasu)
– 見る (miru) becomes 見ます (mimasu)
3. **Irregular verbs**:
– する (suru) becomes します (shimasu)
– 来る (kuru) becomes 来ます (kimasu)
Polite Form of Adjectives
Adjectives in the polite form do not undergo much transformation but the verbs they accompany do. Therefore, the sentences they are part of become polite. For example:
– 高い (takai) – high, expensive, when used in a polite sentence: 高いです (takai desu)
– きれい (kirei) – beautiful, clean, when used in a polite sentence: きれいです (kirei desu)
Polite Form of Nouns and Pronouns
Like adjectives, nouns and pronouns in Japanese do not change in form when shifting between plain and polite speech. However, their usage within sentences requires the appropriate polite endings. For instance:
– 私 (watashi) – I, me, in a polite sentence: 私です (watashi desu)
– 学校 (gakkou) – school, in a polite sentence: 学校です (gakkou desu)
When to Use Plain vs. Polite Form
Understanding when to use the plain form versus the polite form is critical for effective communication in Japanese. Here are some general guidelines:
Use Plain Form When:
1. **Talking with Friends and Family**: In informal settings, such as conversations with friends and family, the plain form is more appropriate.
2. **Self-Talk or Diary Entries**: When speaking to yourself or writing in a personal diary, the plain form is commonly used.
3. **Subordinate Clauses in Complex Sentences**: In written Japanese, especially in literature and academic writing, plain form is often used in subordinate clauses.
4. **Quoting Others**: When quoting someone in a direct speech, the form used will match the original form, which is often plain.
Use Polite Form When:
1. **Speaking to Strangers or Acquaintances**: When you meet someone for the first time or speak to someone you do not know well, use the polite form.
2. **In the Workplace**: In professional settings, especially in Japanese companies, the polite form is the standard.
3. **Public Speaking and Presentations**: When addressing a group of people or giving a formal presentation, the polite form is expected.
4. **Talking to Superiors**: Always use the polite form when speaking to someone of higher status or older age to show respect.
Transforming Plain Form to Polite Form
Let’s practice transforming sentences from plain form to polite form.
Verb Example:
Plain form: 毎日水を飲む (Mainichi mizu o nomu) – I drink water every day.
Polite form: 毎日水を飲みます (Mainichi mizu o nomimasu) – I drink water every day.
Adjective Example:
Plain form: その映画は楽しい (Sono eiga wa tanoshii) – That movie is fun.
Polite form: その映画は楽しいです (Sono eiga wa tanoshii desu) – That movie is fun.
Noun Example:
Plain form: これは本です (Kore wa hon desu) – This is a book.
Polite form: これは本です (Kore wa hon desu) – This is a book. (Note: The noun itself does not change, but the sentence structure remains polite.)
Practice Exercises
To master the plain and polite forms, practice is essential. Here are some exercises you can try:
Exercise 1: Convert to Plain Form
1. 彼は先生です (Kare wa sensei desu) – He is a teacher.
2. 私は毎日走ります (Watashi wa mainichi hashirimasu) – I run every day.
3. その部屋はきれいです (Sono heya wa kirei desu) – That room is clean.
Exercise 2: Convert to Polite Form
1. 彼は学生だ (Kare wa gakusei da) – He is a student.
2. 私は毎朝コーヒーを飲む (Watashi wa mai asa koohii o nomu) – I drink coffee every morning.
3. その車は高い (Sono kuruma wa takai) – That car is expensive.
Common Mistakes and Pitfalls
Mixing Forms
One common mistake is mixing plain and polite forms within the same sentence. This can create confusion and may come off as awkward or disrespectful. Always ensure that the formality level remains consistent throughout your sentence or conversation.
Overusing Polite Form
While it’s better to err on the side of politeness, overusing the polite form in casual settings can make your speech sound stiff and unnatural. Pay attention to the context and adjust your speech accordingly.
Forgetting Social Context
Language learning is not just about grammar and vocabulary; it also involves understanding social contexts. Forgetting to switch to the polite form when speaking to superiors or in formal settings can be seen as rude. Conversely, failing to use the plain form in casual settings can make you seem distant.
Conclusion
Mastering the plain form and polite form in Japanese is essential for effective communication and social interaction. While the plain form is suited for informal, casual settings, the polite form is crucial for formal and respectful communication. Understanding when and how to use each form will not only improve your language skills but also help you navigate the social nuances of Japanese culture. So, practice regularly, pay attention to context, and soon you’ll find yourself switching between these forms with ease.
