Processing keyword: ～ことにしている (〜koto ni shite iru)

Japanese Grammar Point: ～ことにしている (〜koto ni shite iru)

Grammar Point: ～ことにしている (〜koto ni shite iru)

1. Introduction

The grammar point "～ことにしている" is used to express a decision or an intention that has been established over time. It indicates that the speaker has made a habit or a conscious choice regarding a particular action. This grammar is useful for discussing lifestyle choices or routines.

2. Core Grammar Explanation

Meaning

• "～ことにしている" translates to "have decided to" or "have made it a point to" in English. It signifies an ongoing commitment or lifestyle choice.

Structure

• The basic structure is:
  • Verb (dictionary form) + ことにしている
• For negative forms:
  • Verb (dictionary form) + ことにしていない

Formation Diagram

Verb (Dictionary Form)  +  ことにしている
                          ↓
                  Ongoing Choice/Decision

Detailed Explanation

1. Verb Selection: Use the dictionary form of the verb to express the action you're making a decision about.
2. Continuous Action: This structure implies that the action is not just a one-time decision but an ongoing commitment.

3. Comparative Analysis

Comparison with Similar Grammar Points

• ～ことになる (koto ni naru): This means "it becomes" or "it is decided that." While "～ことにしている" indicates a personal decision or habit, "～ことになる" refers to external decisions or situations that affect the speaker.

Examples

• ～ことにしている: 自分の健康のために、毎朝運動することにしている。
  • (I have decided to exercise every morning for my health.)
• ～ことになる: 来月から東京に引っ越すことになった。
  • (It has been decided that I will move to Tokyo next month.)

4. Examples in Context

Sentence Examples

1. Formal:

   • 健康のために、毎日野菜を食べることにしています。
     • (I have made it a habit to eat vegetables every day for my health.)

2. Informal:

   • 最近、運動することにしてるんだ。
     • (I've decided to exercise lately.)

3. Written:

   • 今年は、環境を守るためにプラスチックを使わないことにしています。
     • (This year, I have decided not to use plastic to protect the environment.)

4. Spoken:

   • 夕飯は自炊することにしてるよ。
     • (I've decided to cook for dinner myself.)

5. Cultural Notes

Cultural Relevance

In Japanese culture, personal commitments and decisions often reflect one's responsibility and respect for others. Using "～ことにしている" shows that you are taking your choices seriously, which aligns with societal expectations.

Levels of Politeness

This grammar structure can be used in both formal and informal situations. Context will dictate the level of politeness.

Idiomatic Expressions

• Using "～ことにしている" can be seen in idiomatic expressions about health, discipline, or habits, reflecting cultural values regarding perseverance and personal growth.

6. Common Mistakes and Tips

Error Analysis

• Learners may confuse "～ことにしている" with "～ことになる." Remember that "～ことにしている" conveys personal intention, while "～ことになる" reflects external circumstances.

Learning Strategies

• To remember the difference, connect "～ことにしている" with habitual actions like training for a sport (personal decision), while "～ことになる" can be thought of as results beyond your control (like a scheduled event).

7. Summary and Review

Key Takeaways

• "～ことにしている" signifies ongoing habits or personal decisions.
• It is important to distinguish it from "～ことになる" which shows an external determination.
• Use this structure to talk about your habits related to health, work, or any personal commitment.

Quick Recap Quiz

1. What does "～ことにしている" mean in English?
2. How is "～ことにしている" different from "～ことになる"?
3. Provide an example sentence using "～ことにしている."