Processing keyword: ～とされる (〜to sareru)
Japanese Grammar Point: ～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
| Component | Function |
|---|---|
| Sentence in Plain Form | The statement or idea being considered |
| と | Quotation particle ("that") |
| される | Passive form of する (to do) |
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
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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
- How do you say "This practice is considered dangerous" using ～とされる?
- What is the difference between ～とされる and ～と言われている? Answers:
- この行為は危険だとされる。
- ～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.