Processing keyword: ～となると (〜to naru to)

Japanese Grammar Point: ～となると (〜to naru to)

～となると (〜to naru to)

1. Introduction

In this lesson, we'll explore the Japanese grammar point ～となると (〜to naru to). This expression is commonly used to introduce a hypothetical situation or to emphasize a particular condition when discussing a topic. Understanding how to use ～となると will help you articulate scenarios and express considerations effectively in Japanese.

2. Core Grammar Explanation

Meaning

～となると is used to mean:

• "When it comes to ~"
• "If it turns out that ~"
• "If we consider ~" It emphasizes a change in the situation or highlights specific conditions that bring about different considerations.

Structure

The structure of ～となると is:

[Verb (dictionary form)] + となると  
[Noun] + となると  
[Sentence (plain form)] + となると

Formation Diagram

3. Comparative Analysis

Similar Grammar Points

• ～となれば (〜to nareba): Also means "if it comes to ~" but often implies that an action will follow.
• ～としたら (〜to shitara): Used for hypothetical situations meaning "if we suppose that ~". Differences:
• ～となると focuses on the considerations or implications that arise in a specific condition.
• ～としたら is used more for imagining hypothetical scenarios without necessarily considering further implications.
• ～となれば suggests that something will happen as a result of the condition.

4. Examples in Context

Example 1 (Casual)

Japanese:
海外に住む となると、言語の勉強は避けられないね。 Romaji:
Kaigai ni sumu to naru to, gengo no benkyō wa sakerarenai ne. English Translation:
When it comes to living abroad, studying the language is unavoidable, isn't it?

Example 2 (Formal)

Japanese:
新製品を発売する となると、詳細な市場調査が必要です。 Romaji:
Shinseihin o hatsubai suru to naru to, shōsai na shijō chōsa ga hitsuyō desu. English Translation:
If we're going to launch a new product, detailed market research is necessary.

Example 3 (Written)

Japanese:
いざ試験 となると、緊張してしまう学生も多い。 Romaji:
Iza shiken to naru to, kinchō shite shimau gakusei mo Ōi. English Translation:
When it comes time for the exam, many students end up feeling nervous.

Example 4 (Spoken)

Japanese:
引っ越し となると、色々と準備が大変だね。 Romaji:
Hikkoshi to naru to, iroiro to junbi ga taihen da ne. English Translation:
When it comes to moving, preparing various things is tough, isn't it?

5. Cultural Notes

Cultural Relevance

In Japanese communication, expressing considerations and implications in certain situations is important for clarity and politeness. Using ～となると allows the speaker to gently introduce potential issues or necessities without being too direct.

Levels of Politeness

The expression ～となると itself is neutral and can be used in both formal and informal contexts. Adjust the surrounding language to match the desired level of politeness.

Idiomatic Expressions

• 人間関係 となると、彼はとても慎重だ。
  When it comes to human relationships, he is very cautious.

6. Common Mistakes and Tips

Error Analysis

• Mistake: Using ～となると interchangeably with ～としたら without considering the nuance.

  Correction: Remember that ～となると emphasizes the implications or changes that come with the condition, whereas ～としたら is simply hypothesizing.

Learning Strategies

• Tip: Associate となる with "to become," so ～となると can be thought of as "when it becomes that ~," helping you remember that it's about considering the situation when something becomes reality.

7. Summary and Review

Key Takeaways

• ～となると is used to discuss implications or considerations when a certain condition or topic arises.
• It's structured by attaching となると to the plain form of verbs, nouns, or sentences.
• It differs from similar grammar points by focusing on the consequences or considerations of a situation.

Quick Recap Quiz

1. What does ～となると mean in English?
2. How is ～となると different from ～としたら?
3. Create a sentence using ～となると about planning a trip. Answers:
4. "When it comes to ~", "If it turns out that ~", or "If we consider ~".
5. ～となると emphasizes the implications or considerations of a situation, while ～としたら is used for hypothetical situations without necessarily considering the implications.
6. (Example answer) 旅行に行く となると、早めに予約したほうがいい。
   When it comes to going on a trip, it's better to book early.