Processing keyword: Noun に します (Noun ni shimasu)

Japanese Grammar Point: Noun に します (Noun ni shimasu)

Grammar Point: Noun に します (Noun ni shimasu)

1. Introduction

The construction Noun に します is a commonly used expression in Japanese that means "to decide on (something)" or "to choose (something)." It is often used when discussing preferences, decisions, or choices in various contexts.

2. Core Grammar Explanation

Meaning

• Noun refers to the thing you are deciding on or choosing.
• に (ni) is a particle that indicates direction or result and, in this case, it connects the noun to the verb.
• します (shimasu) is the polite form of the verb "to do" and indicates the action of making a decision.

Structure

• Noun + に + します

Example Diagram:

[ Noun ]  +  [ に ]  +  [ します ]
  (Choice)     (Direction)    (Do)

Formation

1. Identify the noun representing your choice (e.g., メニュー/menu, 仕事/work).
2. Add the particle に to show the action's direction or outcome.
3. Use します to indicate the act of deciding or choosing.

3. Comparative Analysis

• Noun に します vs. Noun に なる (Noun ni naru):
  • に します indicates making a decision, whereas に なる indicates a change to a state or condition.
  • Example:
    • 学生にします (I will choose to be a student.)
    • 学生になる (I will become a student.)

4. Examples in Context

Sentence Examples

1. Formal
   • 私は新しい仕事にします。
   • (Watashi wa atarashii shigoto ni shimasu.)
   • "I will choose a new job."
2. Informal
   • コーヒーにするよ。
   • (Kōhī ni suru yo.)
   • "I’ll have coffee."
3. Written
   • 彼は留学にします。
   • (Kare wa ryūgaku ni shimasu.)
   • "He has decided to study abroad."
4. Spoken
   • ランチはピザにしよう。
   • (Ranchi wa piza ni shiyou.)
   • "Let’s decide on pizza for lunch."

5. Cultural Notes

Cultural Relevance

• Using にします reflects a thoughtful approach in Japanese culture, where making a decision often involves considering others' feelings and opinions.
• The level of politeness in the choice of します can reflect respect, especially in formal or business settings.

Idiomatic Expressions

• 決まったらいいね (kimattara ii ne): “It’d be good if we could decide.”
• This expression often precedes a discussion involving にします, highlighting the collaborative decision-making process typical in Japanese culture.

6. Common Mistakes and Tips

Error Analysis

• Using the wrong noun: Ensure the noun you choose appropriately reflects your intention.
• Omitting the particle に: Remember that に is essential to indicate the direction of the decision.

Learning Strategies

• Create a personal list of nouns that reflect your interests and practice forming sentences using にします.
• Use flashcards: One side with a noun, the other with Noun にします in a complete sentence.

7. Summary and Review

Key Takeaways

• Noun に します is used to indicate a decision or choice about something.
• It is essential to connect a noun properly with the に particle, followed by します.

Quick Recap Quiz

1. What does Noun に します mean in English?
2. How would you say "I will decide on sushi" in Japanese?
3. Contrast Noun に します with Noun に なる and explain one difference. Feel free to attempt the answers, and let's review your understanding!