Processing keyword: ～にわたって (〜ni watatte)
Japanese Grammar Point: ～にわたって (〜ni watatte)
1. Introduction
The grammar point ～にわたって (〜ni watatte) is used in Japanese to express that something extends over a certain period of time, area, or range. It emphasizes the breadth or scope of an action or state, and is often translated as "over," "throughout," or "across" in English.
2. Core Grammar Explanation
Meaning
～にわたって indicates that an action or state covers the entirety of a specified time span, geographical area, or range of items.
- Temporal Extent: Over a period of time.
- Spatial Extent: Across a geographical area.
- Range Extent: Throughout a range or category.
Structure
Formation
**Noun** + にわたって / にわたり / にわたる + **Noun**
- にわたって (ni watatte): Used within a sentence.
- にわたり (ni watari): More formal, often used in writing.
- にわたる (ni wataru) + Noun: Modifies a noun.
Components
| Component | Function |
|---|---|
| Noun | Indicates the period, area, or range |
| にわたって | Expresses extension over that noun |
| Action/State | The action or state that extends |
3. Comparative Analysis
Similar Grammar Points
～を通じて / ～を通して (〜o tsūjite / 〜o tōshite)
- Meaning: "Throughout," "through"
- Usage: Indicates something happens consistently over a period or via a medium.
- Difference: Focuses on a continuous state or means, whereas にわたって emphasizes the entire span or range.
～にかけて (〜ni kakete)
- Meaning: "From... to...," "through"
- Usage: Describes a range from one point to another, often with a starting point.
- Difference: Used for approximate ranges without emphasizing complete coverage.
4. Examples in Context
Example 1: Over a Period of Time
会議は２日間にわたって行われました。 The conference was held over two days.
Example 2: Across an Area
その鳥はアジア全域にわたって生息している。 That bird lives throughout the whole of Asia.
Example 3: Throughout a Range
この問題は教育、経済、政治など多方面にわたって影響を与える。 This issue affects various fields such as education, economy, and politics.
Example 4: Formal Written Context
２０年にわたる研究の成果がついに出版された。 The results of research spanning 20 years have finally been published.
Example 5: Informal Spoken Context
彼は長年にわたってその店で働いていた。 He worked at that shop for many years.
5. Cultural Notes
Cultural Relevance
- Formality: にわたって is often used in formal speech and writing, such as news reports, academic articles, and official statements.
- Emphasis on Extent: In Japanese culture, expressing the extent or thoroughness of an action can convey diligence and thoroughness.
Idiomatic Expressions
- 全国にわたって (zenkoku ni watatte): "Throughout the country"
- 長期にわたって (chōki ni watatte): "Over a long period"
6. Common Mistakes and Tips
Common Mistakes
- Incorrect Noun Attachment Incorrect: 行くにわたって (iku ni watatte) Correct: 期間にわたって行く (kikan ni watatte iku) Tip: Attach にわたって to a noun indicating time, area, or range, not directly to a verb.
- Mixing up Similar Grammar Confusing にわたって with において (ni oite) or について (ni tsuite). Tip: Remember that にわたって emphasizes extent, whereas において indicates location or time, and について means "about" or "regarding."
Learning Strategies
- Visual Aids: Draw timelines or maps to visualize the extent over time or area.
- Practice Sentences: Create your own sentences using にわたって to describe periods or ranges relevant to your life.
7. Summary and Review
Key Takeaways
- ～にわたって is used to express that something extends over a period of time, across an area, or throughout a range.
- It is typically used in formal contexts.
- Always attach it to a noun representing time, area, or category.
Quick Recap Quiz
- What does ～にわたって emphasize in a sentence? Answer: It emphasizes that an action or state extends over the entire span of a period, area, or range.
- Fill in the blank with the correct particle: 彼は３０年____わたって医者として働いた。 Answer: に (彼は３０年にわたって医者として働いた。)
- True or False: ～にわたって can be used with verbs directly without a noun. Answer: False. It must be attached to a noun indicating time, area, or range.
Keep practicing using ～にわたって in different contexts to become more comfortable with its usage!