Processing keyword: A。だって B。(Datte~)

Japanese Grammar Point: A。だって B。(Datte~)

JLPT Grammar Lesson: A。だって B。 (Datte)

1. Introduction

In this lesson, we will explore the grammar point だって (datte), a versatile expression in Japanese that can convey reasons, highlight exceptions, or emphasize inclusivity. Understanding だって helps learners grasp nuanced conversations and express themselves more naturally.

2. Core Grammar Explanation

Meaning

だって can be translated into English as:

• "Because..."
• "Even..."
• "But..."
• "After all..." The exact meaning depends on the context in which it is used.

Structure and Formation

Structure 1: Indicating Reason (Because/After all)

• A。だって B。
  • A (Result/Statement)
  • だって
  • B (Reason/Explanation)

Structure 2: Emphasizing Inclusivity or Exception (Even/Also)

• [Noun] だって
  • Noun
  • だって

Formation Diagram

Indicating Reason

[Statement/Result]。だって [Reason/Explanation]。

Emphasizing Inclusivity

[Subject/Noun] だって [Action/State]。

3. Comparative Analysis

Comparing だって with Similar Grammar Points

4. Examples in Context

Example Sentences

Indicating Reason (Because/After all)

1. 行きたくない。だって疲れているんだもん。 I don't want to go. Because I'm tired.
2. できないよ。だって誰も教えてくれなかったから。 I can't do it. After all, nobody taught me.
3. 彼は来なかった。だって知らせていなかったもの。 He didn't come. Because we didn't inform him.

Emphasizing Inclusivity or Exception (Even/Also)

4. 子供だって分かるよ。 Even children understand.
5. 私だってできる！ I can do it too!
6. 犬だって感情がある。 Even dogs have feelings.

5. Cultural Notes

Cultural Relevance

• だって is often used in casual conversations.
• It conveys a sense of justification or making an excuse.
• Using だって can sometimes sound childish or playful, reflecting a desire to be understood or empathized with.

Levels of Politeness

• だって is informal and commonly used among friends, family, or in relaxed settings.
• In formal situations, it's better to use から or ので to indicate reasons.

Idiomatic Expressions

• 女心と秋の空だって。 They say a woman's heart is like autumn weather (unpredictable).
• 時間は金なりだって。 They say time is money.

6. Common Mistakes and Tips

Error Analysis

1. Using だって in Formal Writing
   • Incorrect: 申し訳ありません。だって電車が遅れました。
   • Correct: 申し訳ありません。電車が遅れましたので。 Using だって in formal apologies is inappropriate.
2. Confusing だって with って
   • って is a casual quoting particle.
   • Example: 彼が行くって言った。 He said he'll go.

Learning Strategies

• Mnemonic Device: Think of だって as the English "But..." or "Because...", often used when making an excuse.
• Tip: Observe how characters use だって in Japanese dramas or anime to get a sense of its casual usage.

7. Summary and Review

Key Takeaways

• だって is an informal particle used to:
  • Provide a reason or explanation (because).
  • Emphasize inclusivity or exceptions (even, too).
  • Make excuses or justify actions.
• It is primarily used in spoken, casual Japanese.
• Be cautious using だって in formal contexts.

Quick Recap Quiz

1. Fill in the blank with だって or から:
   • 明日は休みます。______熱があるんです。 I'll take a day off tomorrow. Because I have a fever.
2. True or False: だって can be used in formal business emails.
3. Translate to Japanese using だって:
   • Even a child knows that.

Answers:

1. 明日は休みます。だって熱があるんです。
2. False
3. 子供だってわかるよ。

By mastering だって, you can add nuance to your Japanese conversations, expressing reasons and emphasizing points more naturally. Practice using it in casual dialogues to become more comfortable with its usage.