Processing keyword: ～にしては (〜ni shite wa)

Japanese Grammar Point: ～にしては (〜ni shite wa)

Grammar Point: ～にしては (〜ni shite wa)

1. Introduction

The grammar point ～にしては is used to express a contrast or unexpected outcome. It can be translated as "considering" or "for" in English, often suggesting that something is surprising given the circumstances.

2. Core Grammar Explanation

Detailed Explanation

• Meaning: It is used to indicate that something is surprising or doesn't quite match the expectations based on a given reference point.
• Structure:
  • AにしてはB
  • Here, A is the standard or reference point, and B is the surprising outcome.

Formation Diagram

A (reference) + にしては (ni shite wa) + B (unexpected result)

Visual Aid

3. Comparative Analysis

Comparison with Similar Grammar Points

• 〜に対して (ni taishite): This emphasizes the contrast but is more neutral, while ～にしては suggests surprise.
  • Example: 日本人に対しては、日本文化に詳しいです (Nihonjin ni taishite wa, Nihon bunka ni kuwashii desu - Regarding Japanese people, [I] am well-versed in Japanese culture.)
• 〜としては (to shite wa): Used to refer to a person's role or status, while ～にしては adds a sense of expectation.
  • Example: 教師としては、彼は素晴らしい (Kyoushi to shite wa, kare wa subarashii - As a teacher, he is wonderful.)

4. Examples in Context

Sentence Examples

1. Formal Context:
   • この料理は簡単に作れるにしては、とても美味しいです。
     (Kono ryouri wa kantan ni tsukureru ni shite wa, totemo oishii desu.)
     Translation: Considering that this dish is easy to make, it is very delicious.
2. Informal Context:
   • 彼女は学生にしては、すごくお金持ちだよ！
     (Kanojo wa gakusei ni shite wa, sugoku okanemochi da yo!)
     Translation: For a student, she is really rich!
3. Written Context:
   • この小説は初心者にしては、内容が難しい。
     (Kono shōsetsu wa shoshinsha ni shite wa, naiyou ga muzukashii.)
     Translation: This novel is difficult for beginners.
4. Spoken Context:
   • その映画は子供にしては、ちょっと怖いかもね。
     (Sono eiga wa kodomo ni shite wa, chotto kowai kamo ne.)
     Translation: That movie might be a bit scary for kids.

5. Cultural Notes

Cultural Relevance

Using ～にしては shows an awareness of expectations based on societal norms. In Japanese culture, acknowledging someone's status or context is important, and using this grammar point reflects the speaker's sensitivity to those norms.

Levels of Politeness

• Casual Usage: Suitable for speaking with friends or peers.
• Formal Usage: Can be adjusted for politeness, but context usually defines tone.

Idiomatic Expressions

• 「彼にしては、信じられないことだ」: "For him, it's unbelievable."

6. Common Mistakes and Tips

Error Analysis

• Misusing with non-comparative statements or confusing it with other grammar points.
  • Mistake: 彼はいい人にしては、時々悪いことをする (Doesn’t correctly contrast).
  • Correction: 彼はいい人にしては、時々意地悪をする (Correctly reflects surprise or expectation).

Learning Strategies

• Mnemonic Device: Think of "ni shite wa" as "considering [something]." This helps link it to the unexpected outcome.

7. Summary and Review

Key Takeaways

• ～にしては indicates surprise related to expectations based on a reference.
• Structure: AにしてはB.
• Common in both spoken and written Japanese.

Quick Recap Quiz

1. How do you use ～にしては in a sentence?
2. What is a common mistake when using this grammar point?
3. Can ～にしては be used in both formal and informal contexts? Feel free to reflect on the answers or ask about specific examples to further clarify your understanding!