Processing keyword: ～ようと思う (〜you to omou)

Japanese Grammar Point: ～ようと思う (〜you to omou)

Japanese Grammar Point: ～ようと思う (〜you to omou)

1. Introduction

The Japanese phrase ～ようと思う (〜you to omou) is commonly used to express one's intention or desire to do something in the future. This construction combines the volitional form of a verb with the phrase "と思う," which means "to think."

2. Core Grammar Explanation

Detailed Explanation

• Structure:
  • The volitional form of a verb + と思う
  • The volitional form often ends in the suffix -う or -よう depending on the verb type.

Breakdown:

1. Volitional Form: This form expresses the speaker's intention to do something.
   • For example:
     • 食べる (taberu) → 食べよう (tabeyou) [let’s eat]
     • 行く (iku) → 行こう (ikou) [let’s go]
2. Attach と思う (to omou): This phrase translates as "I think."

Formation Diagram:

[Verb in volitional form] + と思う

Meaning:

The entire phrase suggests that the speaker is considering or contemplating doing the action specified by the verb.

3. Comparative Analysis

Similar Grammar Points:

• ～つもり (〜tsumori): This expression also indicates intention but is generally stronger, meaning "I intend to..." instead of "I think I might."
• ～ようとする (〜you to suru): This translates as "to try to..." and emphasizes the effort being made toward the action. Example Comparison:
• 食べようと思う (tabeyou to omou): I think I will eat.
• 食べるつもり (taberu tsumori): I intend to eat.
• 食べようとする (tabeyou to suru): I am trying to eat.

4. Examples in Context

Sentence Examples:

1. Formal:
   • 来週、旅行に行こうと思います。
   • (Raishuu, ryokou ni ikou to omoimasu.)
   • "I am considering going on a trip next week."
2. Informal:
   • 明日、映画を見ようと思ってる。
   • (Ashita, eiga o miyou to omotteru.)
   • "I think I will watch a movie tomorrow."
3. Written:
   • 彼は大学で勉強しようと思っています。
   • (Kare wa daigaku de benkyou shiyou to omotteimasu.)
   • "He intends to study at university."
4. Spoken:
   • この週末に友達に会おうと思う。
   • (Kono shuumatsu ni tomodachi ni aou to omou.)
   • "I think I will meet my friend this weekend."

5. Cultural Notes

Cultural Relevance:

In Japanese culture, expressing intention or consideration rather than making a direct declaration is common. This reflects a level of politeness and consideration for others' opinions and feelings.

Levels of Politeness:

Using "と思う" is generally polite, but the degree of formality can vary based on the context and verb conjugation.

Idiomatic Expressions:

• あの人と話そうと思う (ano hito to hanasou to omou): "I think I will talk to that person."

6. Common Mistakes and Tips

Error Analysis:

• Students often confuse ～ようと思う with ～つもり.
• Misuse of volitional form for irregular verbs can lead to incorrect structures.

Learning Strategies:

• Mnemonic Device: Remember "よう" for "intention" together with "思う" to link it to thinking about future actions.

7. Summary and Review

Key Takeaways:

• The structure combines the volitional form of a verb with "と思う" to express future intentions.
• It reflects a moderate level of politeness and is commonly used in both spoken and written contexts.

Quick Recap Quiz:

1. What does ～ようと思う express?
2. Provide the volitional form of 食べる.
3. How does ～ようと思う differ from ～つもり?