Processing keyword: ～つもりだ (〜tsumori da)

Japanese Grammar Point: ～つもりだ (〜tsumori da)

Detailed Explanation of ～つもりだ (〜tsumori da)

Introduction

The grammar point ～つもりだ (〜tsumori da) is used to express intentions, plans, or resolutions. It conveys a speaker's determination or what they intend to do in the future. This expression is quite common in both spoken and written Japanese.

Core Grammar Explanation

Structure and Formation

The structure of ～つもりだ consists of the verb in its dictionary form, followed by つもりだ (tsumori da). Formation Diagram:

• Verb (dictionary form) + つもりだ

Breakdown of Meaning

• つもり (tsumori): This means "intention" or "plan."
• だ (da): This is the copula and can be thought of as "is" in English.

Usage Examples:

• 私は明日学校に行くつもりです。(Watashi wa ashita gakkou ni iku tsumori desu.)

  • I plan to go to school tomorrow.

• 彼女は来週旅行に行くつもりだ。(Kanojo wa raishuu ryokou ni iku tsumori da.)

  • She intends to go on a trip next week.

Comparative Analysis

Differences with Similar Grammar Points

• ～と思う (〜to omou): While つもりだ indicates a firm intention, と思う expresses a thought or expectation that is less certain. For example:

  • 明日行くと思う。(Ashita iku to omou.) - I think I will go tomorrow.

• ～予定だ (〜yotei da): This refers to a scheduled plan, often used for more formal or definite plans. It indicates that something is already arranged.

  • 明日行く予定だ。(Ashita iku yotei da.) - I am scheduled to go tomorrow.

Examples in Context

Sentence Examples

Cultural Notes

Cultural Relevance

The expression つもりだ reflects the importance of intentions and plans in Japanese culture. Communicating one's plans clearly shows responsibility and respect for others, especially in a society that values harmony and planning.

Levels of Politeness

• When using つもりだ, adding です (desu) makes it more polite. In casual situations, つもりだ can be used without です.

Idiomatic Expressions

A common phrase that utilizes the つもり structure is:

• 健康的な生活をするつもりだ。(Kenkou-teki na seikatsu o suru tsumori da.)
  • I intend to live a healthy life.

Common Mistakes and Tips

Error Analysis

1. Mixing up with と思う: Many learners confuse つもりだ with と思う, mistakenly using the latter when they mean to express firm intentions.
2. Incorrect verb forms: Ensure the verb is in its dictionary form before adding つもりだ.

Learning Strategies

• Mnemonic Device: Remember that つもり is related to "plan," like planning a "tummy" (sounds similar to "tsumori") feast!
• Practice forming sentences with different verbs to reinforce structure.

Summary and Review

Key Takeaways

• ～つもりだ (tsumori da) expresses intentions or plans for the future.
• It is important to differentiate it from similar expressions like と思う and ～予定だ.
• Using desu (です) adds politeness.

Quick Recap Quiz

1. What is the basic structure for forming sentences with つもりだ?
2. Difference between つもりだ and と思う?
3. Create a sentence using つもりだ about a future plan. Feel free to practice writing your own sentences using this grammar point!