Processing keyword: ～ように言う (〜you ni iu)

Japanese Grammar Point: ～ように言う (〜you ni iu)

Japanese Grammar Point: ～ように言う (～you ni iu)

1. Introduction

The grammar point ～ように言う (〜you ni iu) is used when you want to express that someone is instructed or asked to do something. It translates to "to say to [someone] to [do something]." This structure is particularly useful when relaying requests or advice that have been communicated to another person.

2. Core Grammar Explanation

Detailed Explanation

• Meaning: The phrase expresses the idea that one is conveying instructions or requests to someone else.
• Structure: This expression is formed by using the verb 言う (いう, "to say") with a clause that describes the request or instruction preceded by the expression ように (you ni).

Formation Diagram

[誰か] + に (to [someone]) + [動詞のように] + 言う (to say)

Example Breakdown

• Example: 彼にもっと勉強するように言った。
  • Translation: I told him to study more.
  • Breakdown:
    • 誰か (he) + に (to him) + もっと勉強する (study more) + ように言った (said).

3. Comparative Analysis

Comparison with Similar Grammar Points

1. 〜ようにする (you ni suru):
   • Meaning: To make an effort to do something.
   • Example: 毎日運動するようにしています。 (I try to exercise every day.)
   • Nuance: Focuses on the attempt rather than on giving instructions.
2. 〜てほしい (te hoshii):
   • Meaning: I want someone to do something.
   • Example: 友達に手伝ってほしい。 (I want my friend to help me.)
   • Nuance: Expresses desire explicitly from the speaker's perspective rather than an instruction.

4. Examples in Context

Sentence Examples

1. Formal: 上司に早くレポートを提出するように言われました。
   (I was told by my boss to submit the report quickly.)
2. Informal: 兄に宿題をちゃんとやるように言った。
   (I told my brother to do his homework properly.)
3. Written: 講師から学生に授業に遅れないように言っておいてください。
   (Please tell the students not to be late for class as instructed by the lecturer.)
4. Spoken: 母に野菜をもっと食べるように言われた。
   (My mother told me to eat more vegetables.)

5. Cultural Notes

Cultural Relevance

In Japanese culture, direct commands can be seen as rude. Therefore, using ～ように言う softens the command into a suggestion or request. This is important in maintaining harmony and respect within communication.

Levels of Politeness

The usage of this phrase can vary:

• Adding 言う in a polite form (言います) makes it more respectful.
• Using this structure is particularly common in business and polite conversations.

Idiomatic Expressions

A common phrase to note:

• 〜しなさい (shinasai): A more direct command that might replace the softer suggestion sometimes indicated by a ように phrase.

6. Common Mistakes and Tips

Error Analysis

• Mistake: Mixing up the order or structure. Ensure you correctly place the particle に indicating the listener.
• Mistake: Using the wrong verb tense: Always ensure that the verb you are asking about is in the appropriate form.

Learning Strategies

• Mnemonic Device: Remember "ように" as "you need to do" -> "I say to you to do (this)."
• Practice: Create sentences involving requests to develop familiarity with this structure.

7. Summary and Review

Key Takeaways

• The structure ～ように言う is used to convey instructions.
• It is polite and maintains social harmony.
• Always follow the correct structure to avoid confusion.

Quick Recap Quiz

1. What does ～ように言う mean?
2. Give an example sentence using ～ように言う.
3. How does this structure relate to Japanese politeness?

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