Processing keyword: まだ～ません (mada ~masen)

Japanese Grammar Point: まだ～ません (mada ~masen)

JLPT Grammar Point: まだ～ません (mada ~masen)

1. Introduction

The Japanese expression まだ～ません (mada ~masen) is a common grammar structure used to indicate that something has not yet happened or been completed. It conveys the meaning of "not yet" and is often used to express patience, expectation, or pending actions.

2. Core Grammar Explanation

Detailed Explanation

• Meaning: The phrase まだ (mada) means "still" or "not yet," while the ending ません (masen) is the negative form of the polite verb ます (masu).
• Structure: The basic structure of this grammar point is:
  • Subject + まだ + Verb (masu-form) + ません

Formation Diagram

Subject + まだ + Verb (masu-form) + ません

Visual Aids

3. Comparative Analysis

Comparison with Other Structures

• まだ～ていません (mada ~teimasen): This is a more continuous aspect and emphasizes that the action is still ongoing.

  • Example: まだ食べていません (mada tabeteimasen) - "I still have not eaten."

• まだ～ない (mada ~nai): This is a more informal way to express "not yet."

  • Example: まだ食べない (mada tabenai) - "I’m not eating yet." (informal)

• もう～ました (mou ~mashita): Indicates that something has already happened (opposite of まだ).

  • Example: もう食べました (mou tabemashita) - "I have already eaten."

4. Examples in Context

Sentence Examples

1. Formal Context:
   • 先生はまだ来ません。 (Sensei wa mada kimasen.)
   • "The teacher has not arrived yet."
2. Informal Context:
   • 友達はまだ来ないよ。 (Tomodachi wa mada konai yo.)
   • "My friend hasn’t come yet."
3. Written Context:
   • レポートはまだ提出していません。 (Repooto wa mada teishutsu shiteimasen.)
   • "I have not submitted the report yet."
4. Spoken Context:
   • 宿題はまだ終わってない。 (Shukudai wa mada owattenai.)
   • "I haven’t finished my homework yet."

5. Cultural Notes - If Applicable

Cultural Relevance

Using まだ～ません in conversation often reflects a level of politeness and respect towards the listener, particularly in formal situations. The tone of hope and anticipation can also convey a sense of patience suitable in Japanese culture.

Idiomatic Expressions

• まだまだですね (mada mada desu ne) - "Still not enough!" or "You've got a long way to go!" This expression is often used to encourage improvement and persistence.

6. Common Mistakes and Tips

Error Analysis

• Confusing まだ (mada) with もう (mou):
  • Remember that まだ means "not yet," while もう means "already."

Learning Strategies

• Mnemonic Device: Think of "mada" as "mAh, don't have it yet!" to remember it means "not yet."
• Practice using it in context by imagining situations where you are waiting for something.

7. Summary and Review

Key Takeaways

• まだ～ません is used to indicate that something has not happened yet.
• A clear structure is important: Subject + まだ + Verb + ません.
• Cultural understanding of politeness can enhance usage.

Quick Recap Quiz

1. What does まだ (mada) mean?
2. Construct a sentence using まだ～ません.
3. What's the difference between まだ and もう?