Processing keyword: ～ものとして (～mono to shite)

Japanese Grammar Point: ～ものとして (～mono to shite)

～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:

1. Verb (plain form) + ものとして
2. い-adjective (plain form) + ものとして
3. な-adjective + である + ものとして
4. Noun + である + ものとして

Formation Diagram

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

• ～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

1. 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.
2. 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.
3. 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.
4. 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.
5. 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

1. 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.
2. 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

1. 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...").
2. Is ～ものとして typically used in casual conversation?
   • Answer: No, it is primarily used in formal contexts.
3. 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.