Processing keyword: ～により (〜ni yori)

Japanese Grammar Point: ～により (〜ni yori)

Grammar Point: ～により (〜ni yori)

1. Introduction

The grammar point ～により (〜ni yori) is used to indicate the means or method by which something is done, similar to "by" or "due to" in English. It expresses causation, agency, or the context in which an action occurs.

2. Core Grammar Explanation

Detailed Explanation

• Meaning: It expresses causation, showing the means, method, or reason for an action.
• Structure:
  • It is often followed by a noun, and can be used in both formal and written contexts.
  • The general format is:

    [Noun] + により + [Result/Action]
    

Formation Diagram

[Method/Means] + により + [Effect/Result]

3. Comparative Analysis

• Similar Grammar Point:
  • 〜によって (〜ni yotte): Also means "by" or "due to," but emphasizes the agent or cause more often when referring to human actions or decisions.
  • Difference: While ～により is usually more formal and often used in written Japanese, ～によって is more flexible and can be used in both formal and informal situations.

4. Examples in Context

Sentence Examples

1. Formal Context:

   • 自然災害により、多くの家が壊れた。
   • Due to natural disasters, many houses were destroyed.

2. Written Context:

   • この研究は多くのデータにより支えられている。
   • This research is supported by a lot of data.

3. Informal Context:

   • 彼の都合により、パーティは中止になった。
   • The party was canceled due to his circumstances.

5. Cultural Notes

Cultural Relevance

• The use of ~により often reflects politeness and formality, making it suitable for official documents, reports, or announcements. In Japanese culture, choosing the right level of formality is critical in communication.

Idiomatic Expressions

• While not a common idiom itself, it can be found in phrases like:
  • 「天候により」(due to the weather)
  • This emphasizes the way external conditions can impact events.

6. Common Mistakes and Tips

Error Analysis

• Learners may confuse ～により with ～によって, using them interchangeably without understanding the nuance of formality.

Learning Strategies

• Mnemonic Device: Remember that "より" has a formal ring to it, hinting at its usage in written and polite contexts.
• Tip: Practice constructing sentences using both forms to see the differences in their respective nuances.

7. Summary and Review

Key Takeaways

• Meaning: Indicates the method, means, or reason for an action.
• Usage: More formal than ～によって, frequently used in written and formal Japanese.
• Structure: Noun + により + Result/Action.

Quick Recap Quiz

1. What does ～により mean in English?
2. When should you use ～により instead of ～によって?
3. Provide one example sentence using ～により. Answers:
4. "By" or "Due to".
5. When writing in a formal context or document.
6. Example sentence should contain the structure mentioned.