Processing keyword: A。もっとも B。(Motto mo ~)

Japanese Grammar Point: A。もっとも B。(Motto mo ~)

A。もっとも B。(Motto mo ~)

Introduction

The grammar point "A。もっとも B。" (motto mo ~) is used to express that A is indeed true, but B is also valid or relevant. It can be translated to "A is true, but (more importantly) B" or "Although A is the case, there is also B." This structure often establishes a contrast or adds an additional piece of information relating to A.

Core Grammar Explanation

Meaning

• "もっとも" (motto mo) is often used to present a corrective or added nuance to the preceding statement.
• It can present a new perspective or qualify the previous statement.

Structure

• The basic structure is as follows:

  A。もっとも B。
  

Formation Diagram

Example Structure

• A: 私は学生です。(Watashi wa gakusei desu.) - I am a student.

• もっとも: もっとも (Motto mo) - However,

• B: 時間がありません。(Jikan ga arimasen.) - I don't have time.

  Complete Sentence: 私は学生です。もっとも、時間がありません。(Watashi wa gakusei desu. Motto mo, jikan ga arimasen.) - I am a student. However, I don't have time.

Comparative Analysis

Similar Grammar Points

1. しかし (shikashi): Means "however", but is used at the beginning of a sentence or clause. "もっとも" is more specific in adding a nuance to the initial statement.
   • Example: 明日は休みです。しかし、宿題があります。(Ashita wa yasumi desu. Shikashi, shukudai ga arimasu.) - Tomorrow is a holiday. However, I have homework.
2. けれども (keredomo): Translates to "but" and can be used interchangeably with "もっとも" to show contrast, but "もっとも" implies a more delicate nuance starting from the truth of A to B.
   • Example: この仕事は楽しいけれども、給料が低い。(Kono shigoto wa tanoshii keredomo, kyūryō ga hikui.) - This job is fun, but the salary is low.

Examples in Context

Sentence Examples:

1. Formal:
   • 日本は安全な国です。もっとも、自然災害が多いです。
   • (Nihon wa anzen na kuni desu. Motto mo, shizen saigai ga ooi desu.)
   • Japan is a safe country. However, natural disasters are frequent.
2. Informal:
   • このゲームは面白いよ。もっとも、難しいけどね。
   • (Kono gēmu wa omoshiroi yo. Motto mo, muzukashii kedo ne.)
   • This game is fun, but it's difficult, you know.
3. Written:
   • 環境問題は重要です。もっとも、それを解決する方法は難しいです。
   • (Kankyō mondai wa jūyō desu. Motto mo, sore wo kaiketsu suru hōhō wa muzukashii desu.)
   • Environmental issues are important. However, finding solutions is challenging.
4. Spoken:
   • 毎日運動している。もっとも、食事には気を使っていない。
   • (Mainichi undō shite iru. Motto mo, shokuji ni wa ki wo tsukatte inai.)
   • I exercise every day. However, I'm not careful about my diet.

Cultural Notes

• Politeness Levels: "もっとも" is relatively polite and is appropriate for both formal and informal conversations. The context and relationship between the speakers will determine its adaptability.
• Social Norms: Japanese communication often involves considering the other party's feelings, and the use of "もっとも" adds nuance to statements that might come off as too direct or harsh, thus softening the delivery.

Common Mistakes and Tips

Error Analysis

• Using it too casually: Learners sometimes use "もっとも" in highly informal settings, where another phrase like "でも" (demo - but) might be more appropriate.
• Sentence order confusion: Misplacing B or confusing the structure, leading to unclear contexts.

Learning Strategies

• Mnemonic Devices: Remember "もっとも" as "More Over", associating it with adding more information or contrasting ideas.

Summary and Review

Key Takeaways

• "A。もっとも B。" expresses a contrast between two statements.
• This structure adds depth and nuance to conversations or writings.
• It is polite and applicable in various contexts.

Quick Recap Quiz

1. What does "もっとも" convey in a sentence?
2. Give an example of a sentence using the structure "A。もっとも B。"
3. How does "もっとも" differ from "しかし"? By understanding this grammar point, learners can express more nuanced thoughts in Japanese, enhancing their conversational skills significantly.