Processing keyword: ～次第です (〜shidai desu)
Japanese Grammar Point: ～次第です (〜shidai desu)
1. Introduction
In this lesson, we'll explore the Japanese grammar point ～次第です (〜shidai desu), which is used to explain the reason or circumstances behind a decision or action. Understanding this expression will help you articulate explanations and justifications more naturally in Japanese.
2. Core Grammar Explanation
Meaning
～次第です (〜shidai desu) conveys the meaning of "that is why," "therefore," or "as a result." It is used to explain the reason or background for a certain situation or action, often in a formal context. This expression emphasizes that the preceding statement is the reason for the subsequent explanation.
Structure
The structure of ～次第です is as follows:
- Verb (dictionary form) + 次第です
- Verb (ます-stem) + 次第です However, it's most commonly used with the ます-stem of a verb.
Formation Diagram
| Component | Form |
|---|---|
| Verb (ます-stem) | 食べ ます → 食べ **** |
| + | 次第です |
| Combined Form | 食べ次第です |
Examples of Verb Conjugation
- 帰る (to return) → 帰り + 次第です → 帰り次第です
- 伺う (to visit) → 伺い + 次第です → 伺い次第です
3. Comparative Analysis
Comparison with Similar Grammar Points
～からです (〜kara desu)
- Usage: Used to provide a simple reason or cause.
- Formality: Neutral to polite.
- Example: 今日は忙しいからです。
Translation: Because I am busy today.
～次第です (〜shidai desu)
- Usage: Used to explain the reason or circumstances, often adding a formal tone.
- Formality: Formal.
- Example: 本日、忙しい状況である次第です。
Translation: That is why I am in a busy situation today. Note: While both expressions provide reasons, ～次第です is more formal and often used in business or official settings to elaborate on circumstances.
4. Examples in Context
Sentence Examples
- 会議が延期になったことをお知らせする次第です。 Translation: I am informing you that the meeting has been postponed.
- この度、プロジェクトを終了する次第です。 Translation: Therefore, we will be concluding the project at this time.
- 新しいシステムを導入する次第です。 Translation: That is why we are introducing a new system.
- 皆様にご報告いたしました次第です。 Translation: This is why I have reported to everyone.
Contextual Usage
- Formal Written Communication: Such as emails, letters, or announcements.
Example:
お客様各位、価格改定のお知らせを申し上げる次第です。 Translation: Dear customers, we are informing you of the price revisions.
- Formal Spoken Communication: Speeches, presentations, or formal meetings.
Example:
本日はご多用のところお集まりいただいた次第です。 Translation: That is why we have gathered today despite everyone's busy schedules.
5. Cultural Notes
Cultural Relevance
In Japanese culture, expressing oneself appropriately in formal situations is crucial. Using ～次第です shows respect and politeness, adhering to the social norms of formality.
Levels of Politeness and Formality
- Very Formal: ～次第でございます
Used in honorific expressions, elevating the politeness level.
Example:
このような結果となった次第でございます。 Translation: That is how we arrived at this result.
- Formal: ～次第です Standard formal expression suitable for business settings.
Idiomatic Expressions
- ～する次第だ
Conveys a formal explanation for taking action.
Example:
詳細を確認した次第だ。 Translation: That is why I have confirmed the details.
6. Common Mistakes and Tips
Error Analysis
- Using in Casual Conversations
- Mistake:
Using ～次第です with close friends or in informal settings. - Correction:
Use more casual expressions like ～だから or ～なんです.
- Mistake:
- Incorrect Verb Form
- Mistake:
Using the plain past tense before 次第です.
Example: 終わった次第です。 - Correction:
Use the ます-stem form.
Example: 終わり次第です。
- Mistake:
Learning Strategies
- Remember the Formality: Associate ～次第です with formal situations like business meetings or official announcements.
- Practice with Set Phrases: Familiarize yourself with common expressions to gain a natural feeling for usage.
- Verb Stem Usage: Recall that the ます-stem connects verbs to other structures, not the past tense.
7. Summary and Review
Key Takeaways
- ～次第です is used to formally explain reasons or circumstances behind actions.
- It is constructed by attaching 次第です to the ます-stem of a verb.
- This expression adds a level of formality suitable for business or official contexts.
Quick Recap Quiz
- Fill in the blank with the correct form:
新しいサービスを開始する_______。
a) からです
b) 次第です Answer: b) 次第です - True or False: You can use ～次第です in casual conversations with friends. Answer: False
- Which verb form is used before 次第です?
a) Dictionary form
b) た-form (Past tense)
c) ます-stem Answer: c) ます-stem
By mastering ～次第です, you'll enhance your ability to communicate formally and respectfully in Japanese. This grammar point is essential for professional interactions and demonstrates a high level of language proficiency. Feel free to practice by creating your own sentences using ～次第です!