Processing keyword: A。だって B。(Datte~)

Japanese Grammar Point: 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.

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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]。

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3. Comparative Analysis

Comparing だって with Similar Grammar Points

Grammar Point	Usage	Example
だって	Indicates reason or emphasis	行かない。だって忙しいもん。
から	Indicates a reason (because)	忙しいから、行かない。
も	Indicates inclusivity (also/even)	私も行きたい。
でも	Indicates "even if"/"but"	雨でも行きます。

Note: While から is a standard way to express "because," だって adds a nuance of giving an excuse or justification, often used in spoken language.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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。

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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.

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