Processing keyword: ～次第です (〜shidai desu)

Japanese Grammar Point: ～次第です (〜shidai desu)

～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

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

1. 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.
2. 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.
3. 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.
4. 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

1. 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.
2. 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。

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

1. 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
2. True or False: You can use ～次第です in casual conversations with friends. Answer: False
3. 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!