Processing keyword: ～となったら (〜to nattara)

Japanese Grammar Point: ～となったら (〜to nattara)

～となったら (〜to nattara)

1. Introduction

In this lesson, we'll explore the Japanese grammar point ～となったら (〜to nattara). This structure is used to discuss hypothetical situations, especially those involving significant changes or decisions. By mastering this grammar point, you'll be able to express "if it comes to..." or "if it turns out that..." scenarios in Japanese.

2. Core Grammar Explanation

Meaning

～となったら is used to express a hypothetical condition or situation that may arise. It carries the meaning of:

• "If it comes to..."
• "If it turns out that..."
• "Should it happen that..." It often implies that if a certain situation were to occur, then certain actions or consequences would follow.

Structure

The formation of ～となったら involves combining a noun or sentence with the conditional expression.

Formation Diagram

Full Structure

[Verb Plain Form / Noun] + と + なったら

Explanation of Components

• Verb Plain Form / Noun: The base of the sentence indicating the potential situation.
• と: A particle that quotes or presents a condition, similar to "if" or "when".
• なったら: The conditional form (たら-form) of the verb なる (to become), meaning "if it becomes".

3. Comparative Analysis

Similar Grammar Points

1. ～となると (〜to naru to)

• Usage: Also means "if it comes to...", but suggests a higher likelihood or immediacy.
• Nuance: Implies that the situation is more probable or already in motion.

2. ～たら (〜tara)

• Usage: A general conditional "if/when", used broadly in conditional sentences.
• Nuance: Does not carry the specific nuance of "becoming" or a significant change.

Differences and Nuances

• ～となったら emphasizes a hypothetical scenario that may require consideration or action if it becomes a reality.
• ～となると suggests that the hypothetical situation is more imminent or likely to happen.
• ～たら is used for straightforward conditions without the added nuance of transformation or becoming.

4. Examples in Context

Example Sentences

1. 海外に引っ越す と なったら、準備が大変だ。
   Kaigai ni hikkosu *to nattara, junbi ga taihen da.
   If it comes to moving abroad, the preparations are tough.
2. その仕事を受ける と なったら、引っ越しが必要になります。
   Sono shigoto o ukeru *to nattara, hikkoshi ga hitsuyō ni narimasu.
   If it comes to accepting that job, moving will be necessary.
3. 結婚 と なったら、両親に紹介しなければ。
   Kekkon *to nattara, ryōshin ni shōkai shinakereba.
   If it comes to marriage, I must introduce you to my parents.
4. 試験に合格できない と なったら、どうしますか？
   Shiken ni gōkaku dekinai *to nattara, dō shimasu ka?
   If it turns out you can't pass the exam, what will you do?

Context Variations

• Formal Written Context: Used in essays, reports, or formal discussions about potential future scenarios.
• Casual Spoken Context: Used among friends or family when talking about possible plans or concerns.

5. Cultural Notes

Cultural Relevance

In Japanese culture, expressing hypothetical situations respectfully and thoughtfully is important, especially when discussing significant life events. Using ～となったら reflects a careful consideration of future possibilities.

Levels of Politeness and Formality

• The grammar point itself is neutral.
• Politeness is adjusted by conjugating the verbs appropriately and using honorific language where needed.

Idiomatic Expressions

While ～となったら is not idiomatic, it can be part of common expressions relating to decision-making or significant changes.

6. Common Mistakes and Tips

Error Analysis

• Mistake: Using ～となったら with adjectives without proper modification.
  • Incorrect: 暇 となったら 遊びに行きましょう。
  • Correct: 暇 だ と なったら 遊びに行きましょう。
• Explanation: Since 暇 is a na-adjective, it requires だ before と.

Learning Strategies

• Remember the Nuance: Associate なったら with なる (to become) to keep in mind that it involves a change or becoming.
• Practice with Scenarios: Create sentences about big decisions or changes to get comfortable using ～となったら.

7. Summary and Review

Key Takeaways

• ～となったら is used to discuss hypothetical situations involving a change or significant event.
• It combines a noun or plain-form verb with と and なったら.
• It adds nuance to conditional statements by focusing on the aspect of a situation "becoming" true.

Quick Recap Quiz

1. What does ～となったら express in a sentence?
   Answer: It expresses a hypothetical situation or condition, meaning "if it comes to..." or "should it happen that...".
2. How do you correctly form ～となったら with the noun "病気" (illness)?
   Answer: 病気 と なったら
3. What common mistake should you avoid when using ～となったら?
   Answer: Forgetting to properly connect adjectives or nouns with だ before と when necessary.

By practicing and using ～となったら in your sentences, you'll enhance your ability to discuss potential situations and express thoughtful considerations in Japanese.