Processing keyword: Noun をもって (~wo motte)

Japanese Grammar Point: Noun をもって (~wo motte)

1. Introduction

In this lesson, we'll explore the grammar point 「Noun をもって」, a formal expression used to indicate "by means of," "with," or "as of" in Japanese. It's commonly found in formal writing, official statements, and ceremonial speeches.

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2. Core Grammar Explanation

Detailed Explanation

「Noun をもって」 has two primary usages:

1. Indicating Means or Method: It describes the means by which an action is performed, similar to "by means of" or "with" in English.
2. Indicating Time Limit or Closure: It marks a specific time as the endpoint or deadline for an action or event, equivalent to "as of" or "effective from" in English. This expression is more formal than 「Noun で」 or 「Noun によって」 and is often used in official contexts.

Meaning and Structure

Meaning

• By means of; With
• As of; Effective from

Structure

Noun + をもって + Action/Conclusion

Formation Diagram

[ Noun (Means/Time) ] + をもって + [ Action/Conclusion ]

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3. Comparative Analysis

Grammar Point	Usage	Formality
Noun をもって	By means of; With; As of (time point)	Formal
Noun で	By means of; With (methods/tools)	Casual
Noun によって	By; Through; Depending on (methods/reasons)	Formal

• Difference in Nuance:
  • をもって is formal and implies finality or officiality.
  • で is used in everyday conversation for means or methods.
  • によって is formal and can express causation or dependency.

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4. Examples in Context

Sentence Examples

1. 手紙をもって感謝の意を伝えます。
   • I express my gratitude by means of a letter.
2. 最新技術をもって、問題を解決しました。
   • We solved the problem using the latest technology.
3. 本日をもって、受付を終了いたします。
   • We will stop accepting applications as of today.
4. これをもって、会議を終了します。
   • This concludes the meeting.
5. 誠心誠意をもって対応いたします。
   • We will respond with sincerity.

Context Variations

• Formal Written Announcement:
  • 3月31日をもって、閉店いたします。
    • We will be closing down as of March 31st.
• Official Speech:
  • 努力と忍耐をもって、成功をつかんだ。
    • By means of effort and patience, success was achieved.

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5. Cultural Notes

Cultural Relevance

• Formal Communications: 「をもって」 is often used in formal or official announcements, such as business closures, policy changes, or ceremonial conclusions.

Levels of Politeness and Formality

• High Formality: Used in written documents, speeches, and respectful communication.
• Not Common in Conversational Japanese: In casual conversations, 「で」 or 「によって」 are preferred.

Idiomatic Expressions

• これをもって: An expression meaning "with this", commonly used to formally conclude events or statements.
  • 例: これをもって、式を終了いたします。
    • This concludes the ceremony.

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6. Common Mistakes and Tips

Error Analysis

• Misusing in Casual Contexts:
  • Incorrect: 友達をもって映画を見に行く。
    • (Using をもって for casual action)
  • Correct: 友達と映画を見に行く。
    • (Use と for "with" in casual contexts)
• Confusing with Similar Expressions:
  • Mistake: Replacing をもって with を持って (with kanji).
    • Note: In grammar usage, をもって is usually written in hiragana.

Learning Strategies

• Associate with Formality: Remember that をもって is used in formal settings.
• Context Clues: If the sentence is an announcement or formal statement, consider using をもって.
• Visual Mnemonic: Picture a formal document stamped with approval "by means of" or "as of" a certain date.

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7. Summary and Review

Key Takeaways

• 「Noun をもって」 is a formal expression meaning "by means of" or "as of."
• It is used to indicate methods/tools or to mark a time limit/end point.
• Not used in casual conversation; prefer で or によって for everyday speech.
• Commonly appears in formal announcements, official statements, and ceremonial contexts.

Quick Recap Quiz

1. What is the primary usage of 「Noun をもって」 in a sentence?
   • Answer: To indicate the means/method by which something is done or to mark a time as the endpoint.
2. Is 「をもって」 appropriate for casual conversations?
   • Answer: No, it's used in formal contexts.
3. Translate the following sentence:
   • 本日をもって、販売を終了します。
     • Answer: "We will stop sales as of today."

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By understanding 「Noun をもって」, you can enhance your comprehension of formal Japanese texts and communicate more effectively in official contexts.

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