Processing keyword: A かたわら B (A katawara B)

Japanese Grammar Point: A かたわら B (A katawara B)

JLPT Grammar Point: A かたわら B (A katawara B)

1. Introduction

In this lesson, we'll explore the grammar point A かたわら B (A katawara B), which is used to express that someone engages in B as a secondary activity while primarily doing A. This structure highlights the simultaneous commitment to two activities over a period of time.

2. Core Grammar Explanation

Meaning

A かたわら B is used to indicate that while someone is mainly occupied with A, they also do B as a secondary activity. It emphasizes the dual roles or responsibilities carried out simultaneously over a certain period.

• Translation: "While doing A, also does B", "Besides A, does B", "At the same time as A, B"

Structure

• Verb Dictionary Form + かたわら + B
• Noun + の + かたわら + B

Formation Diagram

Examples

• Verb Example: 彼は会社で働くかたわら、夜に勉強している。
• Noun Example: 彼女は教師のかたわら、音楽活動もしている。

3. Comparative Analysis

Comparison with Similar Grammar Points

1. ～ながら (nagara)

• Usage: Indicates two actions happening simultaneously.
• Structure: Verb Stem + ながら + Secondary Action
• Difference: ながら is used for actions occurring at the exact same time (e.g., walking while talking), typically short-term. かたわら is for longer-term concurrent activities (e.g., working and also studying over months).

2. ～つつ (tsutsu)

• Usage: Similar to ながら, used in formal contexts.
• Structure: Verb Stem + つつ + Secondary Action
• Difference: Like ながら, つつ refers to concurrent actions but is more formal and literary. かたわら emphasizes dual roles over time.

Visual Comparison

4. Examples in Context

Example 1: Formal Written

• Japanese: 彼は大学で教えるかたわら、研究論文を執筆している。
• Romaji: Kare wa daigaku de oshieru katawara, kenkyū ronbun o shippitsu shite iru.
• English: He teaches at the university while writing research papers.

Example 2: Formal Spoken

• Japanese: 私はエンジニアとして働くかたわら、ボランティア活動にも参加しています。
• Romaji: Watashi wa enjinia to shite hataraku katawara, borantia katsudō ni mo sanka shite imasu.
• English: I work as an engineer and also participate in volunteer activities.

Example 3: Informal

• Japanese: 彼女はモデルのかたわら、自分のブランドを立ち上げた。
• Romaji: Kanojo wa moderu no katawara, jibun no burando o tachiageta.
• English: She started her own brand while working as a model.

Example 4: Written, Academic

• Japanese: 研究者として活動するかたわら、大学院生の指導も行っている。
• Romaji: Kenkyūsha to shite katsudō suru katawara, daigakuinsei no shidō mo okonatte iru.
• English: While working as a researcher, he also mentors graduate students.

Example 5: Business Context

• Japanese: 彼は会社経営のかたわら、業界団体の活動にも携わっている。
• Romaji: Kare wa kaisha keiei no katawara, gyōkai dantai no katsudō ni mo tazusawatte iru.
• English: He manages his company while also being involved in industry organization activities.

5. Cultural Notes

Cultural Relevance

In Japanese culture, balancing multiple roles is often admired. Using かたわら reflects dedication and multifaceted talent, showcasing an individual's commitment to both primary and secondary pursuits.

Levels of Politeness and Formality

• かたわら is considered formal and is frequently used in written language, formal speeches, and professional contexts.
• It is less common in casual conversation, where simpler structures might be preferred.

Idiomatic Expressions

• 傍ら痛い (かたわらいたい): An idiom meaning "embarrassing to watch" or "cringe-worthy".
  • Example: 彼の失敗を見ているとかたわらいたい。
  • Translation: Watching his mistakes is embarrassing.

6. Common Mistakes and Tips

Common Mistake 1: Using かたわら with Short-term Actions

• Incorrect: 音楽を聴くかたわら、勉強する。
• Correction: 音楽を聴きながら、勉強する。
• Explanation: Use ながら for simultaneous short-term actions.

Common Mistake 2: Incorrect Verb Form Before かたわら

• Incorrect: 料理しているかたわら、子供の面倒を見る。
• Correction: 料理するかたわら、子供の面倒を見る。
• Explanation: Use the verb in its dictionary form before かたわら.

Learning Tips

• Remember the Time Frame: Associate かたわら with longer-term commitments.
• Formality Cue: Since かたわら is formal, expect to see it in professional or academic contexts.
• Mnemonic Device: Think of "katawara" as "side"—doing something on the "side" of your main activity.

7. Summary and Review

Key Takeaways

• Usage: Expresses engaging in a secondary activity B while primarily doing A.
• Structure:
  • Verb Dictionary Form + かたわら + B
  • Noun + の + かたわら + B
• Formality: Used in formal, written, or professional contexts.
• Time Frame: Applies to activities over an extended period.

Quick Recap Quiz

1. Fill in the blank: 彼女は学生の____、ウェブデザインの仕事もしている。
   • Answer: かたわら
2. True or False: The verb before かたわら should be in the -ている form.
   • Answer: False (Use the dictionary form)
3. Choose the correct usage:
   • a) テレビを見かたわら、夕食を食べた。
   • b) 彼は弁護士のかたわら、法律についての本を書いている。
   • Answer: b)

By understanding and practicing A かたわら B, you can express complex sentences about dual activities, enhancing your fluency and sophistication in Japanese.