Processing keyword: ～次第で (〜shidai de)
Japanese Grammar Point: ～次第で (〜shidai de)
1. Introduction
The grammar point ～次第で (〜しだいで) is an essential expression in Japanese that conveys the meaning of "depending on" or "according to." It is used to indicate that the outcome or result of a situation is influenced by a preceding factor. Mastering this grammar point will enhance your ability to discuss conditional scenarios and express dependency in Japanese.
2. Core Grammar Explanation
Meaning
- ～次第で expresses that something depends on or is determined by something else.
Structure
| Formation | |
|---|---|
| Noun + 次第で | Depending on [Noun] |
Formation Diagram
[Cause/Condition Noun] + 次第で + [Resulting Action/Outcome]
Detailed Explanation
- 次第で attaches to a noun to show that the outcome varies based on that noun.
- It emphasizes that the result is not fixed and will change according to the preceding factor.
3. Comparative Analysis
- ～によって (〜によって): Also means "depending on," but によって often emphasizes methods or means, while 次第で focuses on conditions influencing outcomes.
- ～次第 (without で): Means "as soon as" when attached to a verb stem, which is different from 次第で.
4. Examples in Context
Example Sentences
- 努力次第で成功できる。
- Doryoku shidai de seikō dekiru.
- Depending on your effort, you can succeed.
- 天気次第で試合が中止になるかもしれない。
- Tenki shidai de shiai ga chūshi ni naru kamoshirenai.
- Depending on the weather, the match might be canceled.
- あなたの言い方次第で彼の反応は変わる。
- Anata no iikata shidai de kare no han'nō wa kawaru.
- His reaction will change depending on how you say it.
- 結果次第では計画を変更する必要がある。
- Kekka shidai dewa keikaku o henkō suru hitsuyō ga aru.
- Depending on the results, we may need to change the plan.
- 資金次第でプロジェクトの規模が決まる。
- Shikin shidai de purojekuto no kibo ga kimaru.
- The scale of the project will be decided depending on the funds.
5. Cultural Notes
Cultural Relevance
In Japanese culture, acknowledging variables and the influence of circumstances is important in communication. Using ～次第で reflects an understanding that outcomes are not always fixed and can be influenced by various factors, which aligns with the Japanese value of considering context and conditions.
Idiomatic Expressions
- 考え方次第で人生が変わる。
- Kangaekata shidai de jinsei ga kawaru.
- Your life can change depending on your way of thinking.
6. Common Mistakes and Tips
Error Analysis
- Mistake: Using 次第で with verbs directly.
- Incorrect: 行く*次第で、連絡します。*
- Correct Usage: 行く場合は、連絡します。
- Explanation: 次第で attaches to nouns, not verbs.
Learning Strategies
- Tip: Remember that 次第で always follows a noun. If you have a verb, convert it into a noun using the nominalizer こと or use the verb's noun form if available.
- Example: 努力する → 努力
7. Summary and Review
Key Takeaways
- ～次第で means "depending on" or "according to."
- It is used by attaching 次第で to a noun.
- It indicates that the outcome is influenced by the preceding noun.
Quick Recap Quiz
- How do you say "Depending on the weather, the picnic might be canceled" using 次第で?
- Answer: 天気次第でピクニックが中止になるかもしれない。
- True or False: 次第で can attach directly to verbs.
- Answer: False. 次第で attaches to nouns.
- Fill in the blank: 努力______成功できる。
- Answer: 努力次第で成功できる。
By understanding and practicing ～次第で, you'll be able to express dependency and conditions more naturally in Japanese. Keep practicing by creating your own sentences, and soon this grammar point will become a natural part of your language skills!