Processing keyword: ～ものとして (～mono to shite)
Japanese Grammar Point: ～ものとして (～mono to shite)
1. Introduction
In this lesson, we'll explore the Japanese grammar point ～ものとして (～mono to shite). This expression is used to indicate an assumption or to consider something as a certain way. It is a formal construction often found in written language and formal speeches.
2. Core Grammar Explanation
Meaning
～ものとして means:
- "Assuming that..."
- "On the assumption that..."
- "Taking it as..." It is used to state that something is considered or assumed to be a certain way, even if it might not be confirmed.
Structure
The basic structures are:
- Verb (plain form) + ものとして
- い-adjective (plain form) + ものとして
- な-adjective + である + ものとして
- Noun + である + ものとして
Formation Diagram
| Component | Function |
|---|---|
| Verb (plain form) | Action or state |
| い-adjective | Description (adjective) |
| な-adjective + である | Description (adjective as noun) |
| Noun + である | Noun being assumed |
| + ものとして | Indicates assumption |
Detailed Explanation
- もの (mono): Literally means "thing" or "object." In this context, it nominalizes the preceding clause.
- として (to shite): A particle meaning "as" or "in the capacity of."
- When combined, ものとして conveys that the speaker is treating or considering something "as a thing of..." or "assuming that..." Usage Notes:
- This expression sets a hypothetical scenario or assumption.
- It is often used in formal contexts to discuss plans, policies, or hypothetical situations.
3. Comparative Analysis
Similar Grammar Points
| Grammar Point | Meaning | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| ～と仮定して (～to katei shite) |
Assuming that... | More formal; used in logical or theoretical contexts. |
| ～という前提で (～to iu zentei de) |
On the premise that... | Emphasizes the premise or precondition of something. |
| ～と思って (～to omotte) |
Thinking that..., assuming... | More casual; reflects the speaker's thought or belief. |
| Difference with ～ものとして: |
- ～ものとして is often used to set an assumption that is treated as a given within the context, especially in formal situations.
- It is less about personal belief (～と思って) and more about establishing a hypothetical or assumed condition.
4. Examples in Context
Example Sentences
- 彼はもう来ないものとして、始めましょう。 Kare wa mou konai mono to shite, hajimemashou. Assuming that he won't come anymore, let's start.
- 試験に合格したものとして、次のステップを考えよう。 Shiken ni goukaku shita mono to shite, tsugi no suteppu wo kangaeyou. Let's consider the next steps, assuming that we've passed the exam.
- 彼女は何も知らないものとして対応してください。 Kanojo wa nanimo shiranai mono to shite taiou shite kudasai. Please handle it under the assumption that she doesn't know anything.
- この計画は承認されたものとして進めます。 Kono keikaku wa shounin sareta mono to shite susumemasu. We will proceed with this plan assuming it has been approved.
- 問題は解決済みであるものとして、次に進みましょう。 Mondai wa kaiketsu zumi de aru mono to shite, tsugi ni susumimashou. Assuming that the issue has been resolved, let's move on to the next point.
Context Notes
- These examples demonstrate how ～ものとして sets an assumption for the rest of the action.
- It is often used to facilitate progress when waiting for confirmation is impractical.
5. Cultural Notes
Cultural Relevance
- In Japanese culture, indirectness and reservation are common in communication.
- Using ～ものとして allows speakers to proceed based on assumptions without making definitive statements, which can be seen as polite or cautious.
Levels of Politeness and Formality
- Formal Expression: Primarily used in formal writing, business contexts, legal documents, and formal speeches.
- Not Common in Casual Conversation: In everyday speech, people might opt for more casual expressions.
Idiomatic Expressions
While there aren't specific idioms using ～ものとして, understanding its usage enhances comprehension of formal Japanese texts and discourse.
6. Common Mistakes and Tips
Error Analysis
- Using Casual Verb Forms:
- Incorrect: 試験に合格するものとして...
- Correct: 試験に合格したものとして... Use the past tense plain form of the verb to set the assumption properly.
- Mixing Politeness Levels:
- Be consistent in the formality level throughout your sentence.
Learning Strategies
- Remember the Components:
- もの = thing (nominalizer)
- として = as, in the capacity of
- Practice by Setting Assumptions:
- Create sentences where you need to assume something to proceed.
- Associate with Formal Situations:
- Think of business meetings or formal planning when using ～ものとして.
7. Summary and Review
Key Takeaways
- ～ものとして is used to express assumptions in formal contexts.
- It sets the condition for the following action or statement.
- Structure involves the plain form of verbs or adjectives + ものとして.
Quick Recap Quiz
- What does ～ものとして express in a sentence?
- Answer: It expresses an assumption or considers something as a certain way (e.g., "assuming that...").
- Is ～ものとして typically used in casual conversation?
- Answer: No, it is primarily used in formal contexts.
- How do you form a sentence using a noun with ～ものとして?
- Answer: Noun + である + ものとして Example: 社員であるものとして (Assuming that (someone) is an employee)
By understanding ～ものとして, you can enhance your comprehension of formal Japanese and communicate assumptions effectively in professional settings.