Processing keyword: もう～ (mou～)

Japanese Grammar Point: もう～ (mou～)

もう～ (mou～)

1. Introduction

The Japanese grammar point もう (mou) is often translated as "already" in English. It is used to indicate that something has occurred or changed from a previous state. This expression is common in both spoken and written Japanese, making it essential for effective communication.

2. Core Grammar Explanation

Detailed Explanation

もう (mou) is used in various contexts to indicate the completion of an action or the transition to a new state. It can modify verbs, adjectives, and nouns.

Meaning and Structure

1. Usage with Verbs
   • When used with verbs, もう indicates that an action has been completed.
   • Structure: もう + Verb (in the plain form or past tense)
   • Example: もう食べた (I have already eaten).
2. Usage with Adjectives
   • With adjectives, もう conveys a change of state.
   • Structure: もう + Adjective (in non-past form)
   • Example: もう寒い (It is already cold).
3. Usage with Nouns
   • When used with nouns, it suggests that something is already in a particular state or condition.
   • Structure: もう + Noun + です
   • Example: もうお昼です (It is already noon).

Formation Diagram

 ┌─── Verb/Adjective/Noun ───┐
 │                           │
 └────→ もう + [Form]      ────→ "Already [Done/Is]" 

3. Comparative Analysis

• もう (mou) vs. まだ (mada):
  • While もう indicates that something has already happened or is the case, まだ means "not yet".
  • Example:
    • もう行った (I have already gone) vs. まだ行っていない (I have not gone yet).

4. Examples in Context

Sentence Examples

1. Formal:

   • もう日本に来ています。
   • (I have already come to Japan.)

2. Informal:

   • もう宿題終わったよ。
   • (I already finished my homework.)

3. Written:

   • もう冬が来ました。
   • (Winter has already come.)

4. Spoken:

   • もう映画が始まった！
   • (The movie has already started!)

5. Cultural Notes

• In Japanese culture, timing can be crucial when discussing events. Using もう appropriately can convey urgency or the need to catch up on recent events.
• Level of politeness can affect how you incorporate もう into your sentences. Using it in a more formal context may require additional respectful language.

Idiomatic Expressions

• もうひとつ (mou hitotsu): "one more" or "another one already"

6. Common Mistakes and Tips

Error Analysis

• Incorrect Negation: Some learners mix up もう with まだ.
  • Mistake: もう行ってない (I already haven't gone).
  • Correct: まだ行ってない (I have not gone yet).

Learning Strategies

• Associate もう with “completed” actions to emphasize that something happened.
• Visualize events on timelines where もう indicates points that are already past.

7. Summary and Review

Key Takeaways

• もう (mou) indicates that an action has been completed or a state has changed.
• It can be applied to verbs, adjectives, and nouns, strengthening communication about time and conditions.

Quick Recap Quiz

1. How would you say "I have already eaten" in Japanese?
2. What does まだ (mada) mean compared to もう (mou)?
3. Provide an example sentence using もう with a noun.

Please feel free to ask questions about any of the points discussed above!