Processing keyword: Noun に する (Noun ni suru)

Japanese Grammar Point: Noun に する (Noun ni suru)

1. Introduction

In this lesson, we'll explore the Japanese grammar point 「Noun にする」 (Noun ni suru). This expression is commonly used to indicate making a choice or decision about something. Understanding this pattern will enhance your ability to express decisions and preferences in everyday conversations.

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2. Core Grammar Explanation

Detailed Explanation

「Noun にする」 is a phrase used to express that someone has decided on or chosen a particular noun. It's equivalent to saying "I'll have ~," "I choose ~," or "I've decided on ~" in English.

• Meaning: To decide on [noun]; to choose [noun]; to make something [noun].

Structure

Noun + にする

• Noun: The item or option being chosen.
• に: A particle indicating direction or target of the decision.
• する: The verb "to do," indicating action.

Formation Diagram

Component	Description
Noun	The choice or decision made
に	Particle indicating “to” or “on”
する	Verb meaning “to do/decide”

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3. Comparative Analysis

Comparing with Similar Grammar Points

1. 「Noun にする」 vs. 「Noun に決める」 (Noun ni kimeru)

• Similarity: Both express making a decision.
• Difference:
  • にする: More casual, often used in everyday decisions like ordering food.
  • に決める: Emphasizes the act of deciding, often for significant decisions.

Grammar Point	Usage	Example
Noun にする	Casual choice or decision	コーヒーにします。 (I'll have coffee.)
Noun に決める	Firm decision, often significant	日本に留学することに決めました。 (I decided to study abroad in Japan.)

2. 「Noun になる」 (Noun ni naru)

• Usage: Indicates a change into something; "to become [noun]."
• Difference: にする is an active decision by the subject, whereas になる often indicates a passive change or result.

Grammar Point	Usage	Example
Noun にする	Subject decides on something	部屋をきれいにする。 (I'll make the room clean.)
Noun になる	Something becomes something	部屋がきれいになる。 (The room becomes clean.)

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4. Examples in Context

Sentence Examples

Example 1: Ordering at a Restaurant (Casual)

• Japanese: 私はカレーにする。
• Romaji: Watashi wa karee ni suru.
• English: I'll have curry.

Example 2: Making a Decision (Polite)

• Japanese: 私は魚にします。
• Romaji: Watashi wa sakana ni shimasu.
• English: I'll go with the fish.

Example 3: Choosing a Meeting Time (Formal)

• Japanese: 会議は午後2時にします。
• Romaji: Kaigi wa gogo ni-ji ni shimasu.
• English: We'll set the meeting for 2 PM.

Example 4: Selecting an Outfit

• Japanese: このドレスにするわ。
• Romaji: Kono doresu ni suru wa.
• English: I'll choose this dress.

Example 5: Deciding on a Gift

• Japanese: プレゼントは本にします。
• Romaji: Purezento wa hon ni shimasu.
• English: I'll make the gift a book.

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5. Cultural Notes

Cultural Relevance

When making decisions in Japanese culture, especially in group settings, it's common to be considerate of others' opinions. Using 「にする」 can soften the assertion of one's choice, aligning with cultural values of harmony and politeness.

Idiomatic Expressions

• 気にする (Ki ni suru): To worry about; to care about.
  • Example: そんなこと気にしないで。
    • Don't worry about such things.
• 目にする (Me ni suru): To witness; to catch sight of.
  • Example: 有名人を目にした。
    • I caught sight of a celebrity.

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6. Common Mistakes and Tips

Error Analysis

1. Using the Wrong Particle
   • Incorrect: お茶をする。
     • This means "to have tea" in the sense of "do tea," which can sound odd.
   • Correct: お茶にする。
     • "I'll have tea."
2. Confusing with 「Verb (Dictionary Form) + ことにする」
   • Mistake: Using 「にする」 directly with verbs.
   • Correction: Use the dictionary form of the verb plus ことにする to express deciding to do an action.
     • Example: 旅行に行くことにします。
       • I've decided to go on a trip.

Learning Strategies

• Practice with Real-life Scenarios: Pretend you're in situations like ordering food, shopping, or planning events, and use 「Noun にする」 to express your choices.
• Visual Associations: Picture directing your decision toward an item; the particle 「に」 can be remembered as the arrow pointing to your choice.

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7. Summary and Review

Key Takeaways

• 「Noun にする」 is used to express choosing or deciding on something.
• The structure is straightforward: Noun + にする.
• It's commonly used in everyday situations, such as ordering food or making selections.
• Be mindful of the particle 「に」; it indicates the target of your decision.

Quick Recap Quiz

1. Translate to Japanese: "I'll have the salad." Answer: サラダにします。
2. Fill in the blank with the correct particle: 彼は新しい電話___した。 Answer: に Complete Sentence: 彼は新しい電話にした。
3. Explain the difference between 「Noun にする」 and 「Noun になる」. Answer:
   • 「Noun にする」: The subject actively decides on or makes something.
   • 「Noun になる」: Something becomes or changes into something else, often passively.

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By mastering 「Noun にする」, you'll be able to communicate your decisions and preferences effectively in Japanese. Keep practicing, and soon it'll become a natural part of your speech!

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