Processing keyword: Verb つもり (〜tsumori)

Japanese Grammar Point: Verb つもり (〜tsumori)

Japanese Grammar Point: Verb つもり (〜tsumori)

1. Introduction

The expression 〜つもり (tsumori) is used to indicate intention or plans. It conveys what a speaker intends to do in the future.

2. Core Grammar Explanation

Detailed Explanation

つもり (tsumori) is a noun derived from the verb つもる, which means "to intend." When attached to a verb in its dictionary form, it expresses the speaker's intention to perform that action in the future.

Structure

• The basic structure to form this grammar point is:

  [Verb - Dictionary form] + つもりです (tsumori desu)

Example Formation Diagram

[Verb in Dictionary Form] + つもりです
            ↓
         君 (kun) 本 (hon) 読む (yomu) つもりです

Translation: "I intend to read a book."

Meaning

• The phrase indicates a planned or intended action.
• It expresses a commitment or a personal decision to do something.

3. Comparative Analysis

Similar Grammar Points:

• Verb 予定 (〜yotei): This also expresses plans but often implies a more formal or scheduled plan compared to つもり.
  • Example: 来週旅行する予定です (Raishuu ryokou suru yotei desu) - "I have plans to travel next week."

Key Differences:

• つもり implies personal intention while 予定 suggests arranged plans.

4. Examples in Context

Sentence Examples

1. Formal Context:

   • 来年大学に入るつもりです。
     • Translation: "I intend to enter university next year."

2. Informal Context:

   • 明日映画を見るつもりだよ。
     • Translation: "I plan to watch a movie tomorrow."

3. Written Context:

   • 彼は来週から新しい仕事を始めるつもりです。
     • Translation: "He intends to start a new job from next week."

4. Spoken Context:

   • 週末に友達と会うつもりなんだ。
     • Translation: "I plan to meet my friends this weekend."

5. Cultural Notes

Cultural Relevance

Using つもり indicates a level of planning that reflects personal responsibility in Japanese culture. Expressing your intentions clearly is essential in maintaining good interpersonal relationships, as it demonstrates consideration for others.

Levels of Politeness

When using つもり, adding "です" makes the statement more polite. It's also common to drop です in casual conversations.

Idiomatic Expressions

While there aren't many set idioms with つもり, you may encounter phrases like:

• 予定を立てることになる (yotei o tateru koto ni naru) - "It comes to making a plan."

6. Common Mistakes and Tips

Error Analysis

1. Using the Wrong Verb Form: Remember to use the dictionary form of the verb before adding つもり.

   • Incorrect: 食べるつもりだ (taberu tsumori da) (Grammatically correct, but informal).
   • Correct: 米を食べるつもりです。 (Kome o taberu tsumori desu) - "I intend to eat rice."

2. Confusing with 予定 (yotei): Avoid mixing up つもり and 予定, as they have different levels of certainty.

Learning Strategies

• Mnemonic Device: Think of "つもり" as "to sum up my intentions," to remember its purpose.

7. Summary and Review

Key Takeaways

• 〜つもり (tsumori) indicates a planned intention or commitment to perform an action.
• It is formed by attaching it to the dictionary form of a verb.
• Distinguish between つもり and 予定 for proper expression of plans.

Quick Recap Quiz

1. How do you form a sentence using つもり?
2. What is the difference between つもり and 予定?
3. Give a sentence using つもり in a formal context.

By understanding and practicing the usage of つもり, you can express your intentions clearly and appropriately in Japanese conversations.