Processing keyword: ～次第 (〜shidai)

Japanese Grammar Point: ～次第 (〜shidai)

～次第（しだい）

1. Introduction

In this lesson, we'll explore the grammar point ～次第（しだい）. This expression is essential for conveying that something will happen as soon as a particular action is completed. It's commonly used in formal situations, such as business or polite communications.

2. Core Grammar Explanation

Meaning

～次第 means:

• As soon as
• Once
• Immediately after It indicates that the action in the main clause will occur right after the preceding action is completed.

Structure

To form sentences with ～次第, use the following structure:

Verb (ます-stem) + 次第

Formation Diagram

Examples of Verb (ます-stem) Forms

Usage Notes

• The action after ～次第 is often the speaker's intention, request, or suggestion.
• It's frequently used in formal contexts.

3. Comparative Analysis

～次第 vs. ～たら vs. ～と

• 会議が終わり次第、連絡します。 "I will contact you as soon as the meeting is over." (Emphasis on prompt action)
• 会議が終わったら、連絡します。 "I'll contact you after the meeting ends." (Neutral timing)

4. Examples in Context

Sentence Examples

1. 準備ができ次第、ご連絡いたします。 Translation: "I will contact you as soon as preparations are complete."
2. 新しい住所が決まり次第、お知らせします。 Translation: "I will inform you as soon as the new address is decided."
3. 部長が戻り次第、会議を始めます。 Translation: "We will start the meeting as soon as the manager returns."
4. 電車が着き次第、出発しましょう。 Translation: "Let's depart as soon as the train arrives."
5. 詳細がわかり次第、ご報告いたします。 Translation: "I will report as soon as the details are known."

Context Variations

• Formal Written Context:
  • 注文品が入荷し次第、発送いたします。 "We will ship your order as soon as it arrives in stock."
• Formal Spoken Context:
  • 確認次第、折り返しご連絡します。 "I will get back to you as soon as I confirm."

5. Cultural Notes

Cultural Relevance

• Formal Communication: ～次第 is often used in business emails, announcements, and official statements to convey professionalism.

Levels of Politeness and Formality

• Using ～次第 adds a level of formality and respect.
• It is less common in casual conversations; alternative expressions like ～たら might be used instead.

Idiomatic Expressions

• あなた次第です。 Translation: "It's up to you."
  • In this phrase, 次第 means "dependent on" or "up to," showing its versatility.

6. Common Mistakes and Tips

Error Analysis

1. Incorrect Verb Form
   • Incorrect: 会議が終わって次第、連絡します。
   • Correct: 会議が終わり次第、連絡します. Tip: Use the ます-stem form of the verb before 次第, not the て-form.
2. Using in Casual Contexts
   • Overusing ～次第 in informal situations can sound overly formal or stiff. Tip: In casual conversations, consider using ～たら or ～と.

Learning Strategies

• Remember the Structure:
  • Think of 次第 as "the sequence (次) from this point onwards (第)."
• Practice with Common Verbs:
  • Make a list of common verbs and practice converting them to the ます-stem form before adding 次第.
• Create Realistic Scenarios:
  • Use situations from your own life to make sentences, enhancing memorization.

7. Summary and Review

Key Takeaways

• ～次第 is used to express immediate action following the completion of another action.
• Structure: Verb (ます-stem) + 次第
• It's commonly used in formal contexts.
• Always use the ます-stem form of the verb before 次第.

Quick Recap Quiz

1. Fill in the blank with the correct form of the verb: 新しい情報が_____次第、お知らせします。
2. True or False: ～次第 can be used with the plain form of verbs.
3. Choose the appropriate context for using ～次第: a) Casual conversation with friends b) Formal business email c) Informal text messages

Answers:

1. 入り (ます-stem form of 入る)
   • 新しい情報が入り次第、お知らせします。
2. False
   • ～次第 uses the ます-stem form, not the plain form.
3. b) Formal business email

By mastering ～次第, you can enhance your formal Japanese communication skills, making your speech and writing sound more professional and polished.