Processing keyword: な-Adjective に します (na-Adjective ni shimasu)

Japanese Grammar Point: な-Adjective に します (na-Adjective ni shimasu)

Japanese Grammar Point: な-Adjective に します (na-Adjective ni shimasu)

1. Introduction

In Japanese, adjectives can be categorized into two main groups: い-adjectives and な-adjectives. The grammar point な-adjective にします is essential for expressing changes or making decisions regarding states or qualities described by な-adjectives. This expression is particularly useful in everyday conversation.

2. Core Grammar Explanation

Detailed Explanation

The structure "な-adjective + にします" translates to "to make something [adjective]" or "to decide to make something [adjective]." Here's the breakdown of the components:

• な-Adjective: A type of adjective that requires "な" when modifying a noun directly.
• に: A particle that indicates direction or a change of state.
• します (shimasu): The polite form of the verb "to do," indicating the action being taken.

Meaning and Structure

The structure can be illustrated as follows:

• 静か (shizuka - quiet) + にします → 静かにします (shizuka ni shimasu - to make something quiet)

Visual Aid

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3. Comparative Analysis

Comparison with other constructions:

• な-Adjective + になる (na-Adjective ni naru):
  • This expresses a change that happens naturally (e.g., "to become quiet" 静かになる)
• な-Adjective + しています (na-Adjective shiteimasu):
  • Indicates a continuing state (e.g., "is quiet" 静かにしています) Differences:
• "にします" implies an active decision or intention to change to a state, while “になる” indicates a more passive change.

4. Examples in Context

Sentence Examples

1. Formal:
   • 会議は静かにします。
   • (Kaigi wa shizuka ni shimasu.)
   • "I will make the meeting quiet."
2. Informal:
   • この部屋をきれいにします。
   • (Kono heya wo kirei ni shimasu.)
   • "I'll make this room clean."
3. Written:
   • 人々の生活を便利にします。
   • (Hitobito no seikatsu wo benri ni shimasu.)
   • "I will make people's lives more convenient."
4. Spoken:
   • あの映画は面白くしますよ！
   • (Ano eiga wa omoshiroku shimasu yo!)
   • "That movie will be made interesting!"

5. Cultural Notes

Cultural Relevance

In Japanese culture, politeness and indirectness are significant. Using "にします" reflects consideration for others, implying that you are actively trying to improve or adapt a situation for someone's benefit or the group's benefit.

Idiomatic Expressions

• いいようにします (ii you ni shimasu): "I will make it into a good situation." Commonly used in negotiations or when improving conditions.

6. Common Mistakes and Tips

Error Analysis

• Using いい (ii - good): Students often confuse "いい" with "よい" (yoi) and may use the wrong form. Remember, "いい" becomes "良くします" (yoku shimasu) for "to make good."

Learning Strategies

• Mnemonic Device: Remember "にします" as "decide to make" by thinking of "ni" as "to" (en route to 'make'), turning qualities into actions.

7. Summary and Review

Key Takeaways

• Structure: な-adjective + にします indicates an action to change something to that quality.
• Context: Used in various formal and informal settings.
• Nuances: Active change vs. passive state change with "なる."

Quick Recap Quiz

1. How do you say "make it beautiful" using "beautiful" in Japanese?
2. True or False: "にします" indicates a passive change.
3. What does "静かにします" mean? Answers:
4. きれいにします (kirei ni shimasu)
5. False
6. "To make it quiet"