Processing keyword: ～とされる (〜to sareru)

Japanese Grammar Point: ～とされる (〜to sareru)

～とされる (〜to sareru)

1. Introduction

In Japanese, expressing widely held beliefs or general opinions without specifying a particular subject is essential, especially in formal contexts. The grammar point ～とされる (〜to sareru) allows us to convey such ideas elegantly. This lesson will delve into the usage, structure, and nuances of ～とされる, helping you understand and use it effectively.

2. Core Grammar Explanation

Meaning

～とされる is used to express that something is considered, regarded, or thought to be a certain way. It conveys a general consensus or common belief without attributing it to any specific person or group.

Structure

The structure involves attaching ～とされる to a plain form sentence:

[Plain Form Sentence] + とされる

Formation Diagram

3. Comparative Analysis

• ～と思われる: Also means "it is thought that," but implies more uncertainty.
• ～と言われている: Means "it is said that," focusing on what people say rather than general belief.
• ～とみられる: Translates to "it is seen as," often used in written reports or news. While all these expressions convey general opinions, ～とされる is more formal and is frequently used in written language to express established views or theories.

4. Examples in Context

Example Sentences

1. 富士山は日本一高い山だとされる。
   • Fujisan wa Nihon ichi takai yama da to sareru.
   • Mount Fuji is considered the highest mountain in Japan.
2. この研究は画期的だとされている。
   • Kono kenkyū wa kakki-teki da to sarete iru.
   • This research is considered groundbreaking.
3. 彼の行動は問題視されるとされている。
   • Kare no kōdō wa mondai-shi sareru to sarete iru.
   • His actions are regarded as problematic.
4. その薬は効果があるとされていたが、実際には違った。
   • Sono kusuri wa kōka ga aru to sarete ita ga, jissai ni wa chigatta.
   • That medicine was believed to be effective, but in reality, it was not.

5. Cultural Notes

Cultural Relevance

In Japanese society, indirect expressions are valued, especially in formal settings. Using ～とされる allows the speaker or writer to present information objectively without asserting personal opinion, which aligns with the cultural preference for harmony and avoiding confrontation.

Idiomatic Expressions

• 常識とされる
  • Jōshiki to sareru
  • Considered common sense
• 重要とされる
  • Jūyō to sareru
  • Regarded as important

6. Common Mistakes and Tips

Error Analysis

• Confusing Passive Forms: Mixing up ～とされる with other passive forms like ～られる or ～れる.
  • Incorrect: 彼は天才とられる。
  • Correct: 彼は天才とされる。
• Using Polite Form Inside the Structure: Placing です・ます forms before とされる.
  • Incorrect: 彼は優秀ですとされる。
  • Correct: 彼は優秀だとされる。

Learning Strategies

• Mnemonic Device: Think of される as "is done," so とされる is like "is done being said," hence "is considered."
• Practice: Create sentences using common beliefs or general statements to become comfortable with the structure.

7. Summary and Review

Key Takeaways

• ～とされる is used to express general beliefs or opinions.
• It is formed by adding とされる to a sentence in the plain form.
• Commonly used in formal written Japanese.
• Helps in expressing ideas objectively without personal bias.

Quick Recap Quiz

1. How do you say "This practice is considered dangerous" using ～とされる?
2. What is the difference between ～とされる and ～と言われている? Answers:
3. この行為は危険だとされる。
4. ～とされる expresses a general consensus or belief without specifying who says it, while ～と言われている implies that people say or it is said that, focusing more on hearsay.