Processing keyword: ～足る Noun (〜taru～)

Japanese Grammar Point: ～足る Noun (〜taru～)

1. Introduction

In this lesson, we'll explore the grammar point ～足る (〜たる), a formal expression used in Japanese to denote worthiness or suitability. This structure emphasizes that someone or something possesses the qualities necessary for a particular role or status.

---

2. Core Grammar Explanation

Meaning

The phrase ～足る Noun means "worthy of being ~" or "suitable for ~". It highlights that the subject has the qualities or status befitting the noun that follows.

Structure

Noun1 + 足る + Noun2

• Noun1: The entity possessing the qualities.
• 足る (たる): An archaic verb meaning "to be worthy of" or "to be sufficient for".
• Noun2: The role or status being conferred.

Formation Diagram

Component	Function
Noun1	Subject with qualities
足る	Indicates worthiness/suitability
Noun2	Role or status the subject is worthy of

---

Visual Aid

graph LR
A[Noun1] --> B[足る]
B --> C[Noun2]

---

3. Comparative Analysis

Comparison with Similar Expressions

• ～にふさわしい Noun
  • Meaning: "Noun suitable for ~", "appropriate for ~".
  • Usage: More common in everyday conversation.
  • Example:
    • 彼はリーダーにふさわしい人物だ。
      He is a person suitable to be a leader.
• ～に値する (〜にあたいする)
  • Meaning: "To be worth ~", "to deserve ~".
  • Usage: Can be used in both formal and informal contexts.
  • Example:
    • 彼の行動は尊敬に値する。
      His actions deserve respect.

Differences:

• ～足る is more formal and often used in written language or speeches.
• It carries a stronger connotation of inherent worthiness or qualification.

---

4. Examples in Context

Example Sentences

1. 教師足る者、常に学ぶ姿勢を持つべきだ。
   きょうしたるもの、つねにまなぶしせいをもつべきだ。
   A person worthy of being a teacher should always have a learning attitude.
2. 彼は信頼するに足る人物だ。
   かれはしんらいするにたるじんぶつだ。
   He is a person worthy of trust.
3. この作品は賞賛に足る出来栄えだ。
   このさくひんはしょうさんにたるできばえだ。
   This work is of a quality worthy of praise.
4. 彼女はリーダー足る資質を備えている。
   かのじょはリーダーたるししつをそなえている。
   She possesses the qualities befitting a leader.
5. 政治家足る者、公正であるべきだ。
   せいじかたるもの、こうせいであるべきだ。
   Those worthy of being politicians should be fair.

---

Contextual Usage

• Formal Situations: Used in formal speeches, writings, and discussions about roles and responsibilities.
• Emphasizing Standards: Highlights the high standards or qualities expected of someone in a particular role.

---

5. Cultural Notes

Cultural Relevance

In Japanese culture, great emphasis is placed on fulfilling one's role with the appropriate qualities and behaviors. Using ～足る underscores the importance of meeting societal expectations associated with certain positions.

Levels of Politeness and Formality

• Formal Expression: Not commonly used in casual conversation.
• Suitability in Writing: Appropriate for essays, formal letters, and speeches.

Idiomatic Expressions

• 勇気ある者足るべし
  (One should be worthy of being called courageous.)
• 紳士足る態度
  (An attitude befitting a gentleman.)

---

6. Common Mistakes and Tips

Error Analysis

1. Using in Informal Contexts
   • Mistake: Using ～足る in casual conversation can sound unnatural.
   • Correction: Use more common expressions like ～にふさわしい.
   • Example:
     • Casual: 彼は信頼するに足る友達だ。 (Too formal)
     • Better: 彼は信頼できる友達だ。 (He is a trustworthy friend.)
2. Incorrect Structure
   • Mistake: Misplacing 足る or using the wrong form.
   • Correction: Ensure 足る directly follows Noun1.
   • Example:
     • Incorrect: 足る教師者、学生の模範だ。
     • Correct: 教師足る者、学生の模範だ。

Learning Strategies

• Association: Connect 足る with "being sufficient or worthy of" to remember its meaning.
• Practice Formal Contexts: Read formal Japanese texts to see how ～足る is used.
• Use Set Phrases: Memorize common expressions like 信頼するに足る to become familiar with the pattern.

---

7. Summary and Review

Key Takeaways

• ～足る Noun is a formal expression meaning "worthy of being ~" or "suitable for ~".
• Structure: Noun1 + 足る + Noun2
• Emphasizes the subject's suitability or qualifications for a role.
• Commonly used in formal writing and speeches.
• Not typically used in everyday conversation.

---

Quick Recap Quiz

1. Fill in the Blank この作品は賞賛に ____ 出来栄えだ。
   (This work is of a quality worthy of praise.) Answer: 足る
2. True or False ～足る is commonly used in casual conversation among friends. Answer: False
3. Choose the Correct Usage Which sentence correctly uses ～足る? a) 彼は学生足りる者だ。
   b) 彼は学生足る者だ。
   c) 彼は学生に足る者だ。 Answer: b) 彼は学生足る者だ。

---

By understanding ～足る Noun, you enhance your ability to read and comprehend formal Japanese texts and express nuanced ideas about worthiness and suitability in appropriate contexts.

---

© Hanabira.org