Processing keyword: ～うとした (〜uto shita)

Japanese Grammar Point: ～うとした (〜uto shita)

Grammar Point: ～うとした (〜uto shita)

1. Introduction

In this lesson, we will explore the Japanese grammar point ～うとした (〜uto shita). This expression is important for conveying attempts and intentions.

2. Core Grammar Explanation

Detailed Explanation

• Meaning: The structure ～うとした means "tried to do (something)" or "was about to do (something)." It indicates an intent or attempt that was not completed or was interrupted.
• Structure: The grammar is formed by taking the -u form (dictionary form) of a verb, removing the final う (u), and adding とした (to shita).

Formation Diagram

Verb (dictionary form) → Remove う → Add とした

Examples:

• 食べる (taberu) → 食べ (tabe) + とした = 食べようとした (tabeyou to shita) - "tried to eat"
• 行く (iku) → 行こう (ikou) + とした = 行こうとした (ikou to shita) - "tried to go"

3. Comparative Analysis

Similar grammar points include:

• ～ようとする (〜yō to suru): This indicates the intention or effort to do something but is still in progress, while ～うとした indicates an attempt that was made but not completed.
• ～ている (〜te iru): This structure describes ongoing actions but does not imply any attempt or intention.

Summary of Differences:

4. Examples in Context

1. Informal:
   • 妹はコンサートに行こうとしたけど行けなかった。
     Imōto wa konsāto ni ikou to shita kedo ikenakatta.
     (My younger sister tried to go to the concert, but she couldn't.)
2. Formal:
   • 先生は説明をしようとしたが、時間がなくなりました。
     Sensei wa setsumei o shiyou to shita ga, jikan ga nakunarimashita.
     (The teacher tried to explain, but there was no time left.)
3. Spoken:
   • 彼は買い物に行こうとしたけど、雨が降り始めた。
     Kare wa kaimono ni ikou to shita kedo, ame ga furi hajimeta.
     (He tried to go shopping, but it started to rain.)
4. Written:
   • 私はその本を読もうとしたが、忙しすぎてできなかった。
     Watashi wa sono hon o yomou to shita ga, isogashisugite dekinakatta.
     (I tried to read that book, but I was too busy to do it.)

5. Cultural Notes

Cultural Relevance

The usage of ～うとした can reflect humility in Japanese culture as it expresses an acknowledgment of an effort that did not reach completion. This aligns with societal norms of not boasting about successes and being modest about intentions.

Idiomatic Expressions

• 行こうとしたのに (ikou to shita noni) - "I tried to go, but..."

6. Common Mistakes and Tips

Error Analysis

• Mistaking the form by using a verb in the non-past form instead of the dictionary form can lead to incorrect usage.
• Confusing with the same structure but using it for completed actions instead of attempts.

Learning Strategies

• Mnemonic Device: Remember that "とした" can relate to attempts by linking it to "to try".
• Practice by Scenario: Think of daily activities you have an intention to do and apply this grammar point.

7. Summary and Review

Key Takeaways

• Meaning: Indicates an attempt or intention that was not completed.
• Formation: Verb (dictionary form) + とした.
• Usage: Applies to informal and formal contexts.

Quick Recap Quiz

1. How do you form the grammar structure ～うとした?
2. What is the difference between ～うとした and ～ようとする?
3. Create a sentence using ～うとした in a context of your choice.