Processing keyword: Verb て くださる (Verb-te kudasaru)
Japanese Grammar Point: Verb て くださる (Verb-te kudasaru)
1. Introduction
In Japanese, expressing actions done as a favor involves specific grammar structures that convey respect and politeness. "Verb て くださる" is an honorific expression used when someone of higher status performs an action for the speaker or the speaker's in-group. Understanding this grammar point is essential for polite and respectful communication in Japanese.
2. Core Grammar Explanation
Meaning
"Verb て くださる" is used to indicate that someone (usually of higher social status or whom you wish to show respect) kindly does something for you or your in-group. It elevates the giver's action and shows appreciation.
Structure
The structure combines the て-form of a verb with くださる.
[Verb in て-form] + くださる
Formation Diagram
| Verb (Dictionary Form) | Verb (て-form) | Verb て くださる Form |
|---|---|---|
| 書く (kaku) | 書いて | 書いてくださる |
| 教える (oshieru) | 教えて | 教えてくださる |
| 待つ (matsu) | 待って | 待ってくださる |
| 読む (yomu) | 読んで | 読んでくださる |
| 飲む (nomu) | 飲んで | 飲んでくださる |
3. Comparative Analysis
"Verb て くださる" vs. "Verb て くれる"
- くださる is the honorific form of くれる.
- Use くださる when the person doing the action is of higher status or you want to show respect.
- Use くれる in casual situations when the giver is of equal or lower status.
Expression Politeness Level Context Verb て くださる Polite/Honorific Superior, teacher, client, senior member Verb て くれる Casual Friends, family, peers
4. Examples in Context
Formal Situations
- 先生がレポートを見てくださった。
Sensei ga repōto o mite kudasatta.
The teacher kindly looked at my report. - 部長がこのプロジェクトについて説明してくださいます。
Buchō ga kono purojekuto ni tsuite setsumei shite kudasaimasu.
The manager will kindly explain about this project.
Expressing Gratitude
- お客様がアンケートに答えてくださって、ありがとうございます。
Okyakusama ga ankēto ni kotaete kudasatte, arigatō gozaimasu.
Thank you for kindly answering the survey, dear customer.
Requesting Politely
- ご意見を聞かせてくださいますか。
Goiken o kikasete kudasaimasu ka.
Could you please let me hear your opinion?
Humble Context
- 社長が新しい戦略を発表してくださった。
Shachō ga atarashii senryaku o happyō shite kudasatta.
The president kindly announced a new strategy.
5. Cultural Notes
Cultural Relevance
In Japanese culture, respecting hierarchy and showing humility are paramount. Using "Verb て くださる" appropriately reflects awareness of social status and conveys respect toward the person performing the action.
Levels of Politeness
- くださる elevates the giver and is used for superiors or customers.
- Misusing these forms can come across as disrespectful or overly familiar.
Idiomatic Expressions
- お時間を割いてくださり、ありがとうございます。
Ojikan o saite kudasari, arigatō gozaimasu.
Thank you for taking the time (to meet with me).
6. Common Mistakes and Tips
Error Analysis
Using くれる instead of くださる:
Incorrect when speaking to or about someone deserving respect.Incorrect:
部長が資料を送ってくれた。 (Casual language about a superior.)
Correct:
部長が資料を送ってくださった。Overusing くださる in casual contexts:
Can sound overly formal or create distance between friends.
Learning Strategies
- Mnemonic Device:
Remember that くださる "comes down" from someone above (both in status and in the sentence structure), symbolizing respect. - Practice Politeness Levels:
Pair verbs with appropriate honorifics based on the relationship dynamics.
7. Summary and Review
Key Takeaways
- "Verb て くださる" is used to respectfully indicate someone does something for you.
- It is the honorific form of "Verb て くれる".
- Appropriate usage reflects cultural understanding of hierarchy and respect.
Quick Recap Quiz
- Fill in the blank with the correct form:
先生が本を____くださった。
(The teacher kindly gave me a book.) - True or False:
You can use くださる when talking about your friend's actions in a casual setting. - Choose the more appropriate expression for speaking to a customer:
a) 来てくれてありがとうございます。
b) 来てくださってありがとうございます。
Answers:
- 貸して
Sensei ga hon o kashite kudasatta.
The teacher kindly lent me a book. - False
Use くれる instead of くださる in casual settings with friends. - b) 来てくださってありがとうございます。
This is the polite form appropriate for customers.
By mastering "Verb て くださる", you enhance your ability to communicate respectfully and effectively in Japanese, reflecting a deep understanding of social nuances.