Processing keyword: Verb てみせる (Verb te miseru)

Japanese Grammar Point: Verb てみせる (Verb te miseru)

Verb てみせる (Verb te miseru)

1. Introduction

In this lesson, we'll explore the Japanese grammar point Verb てみせる (Verb te miseru). This construction is used to express determination to show someone that you can do something or to demonstrate a result through an action. It's a powerful way to convey commitment or to reassure someone.

2. Core Grammar Explanation

Meaning

Verb てみせる is used to express:

• "I'll show you by doing..."
• "I will definitely..."
• "Let me demonstrate..." It conveys the speaker's determination to perform an action, often to prove a point or to impress someone.

Formation Diagram

The structure is straightforward:

Verb (て-form) + みせる

Breakdown

1. Verb (て-form): The て-form of a verb is used to connect verbs or to form certain grammatical structures.
2. みせる: Means "to show." When attached to the て-form, it metaphorically means "I'll show you by doing..."

3. Comparative Analysis

Similar Grammar Points

• Verb てやる: Implies doing something for someone else, sometimes with a condescending tone.
• Verb てあげる: Means to do something as a favor for someone else.
• Verb てみる: Means to try doing something. Verb てみせる differs as it emphasizes showing or proving through action, often with determination.

4. Examples in Context

Example 1: Expressing Determination

Japanese: 今度の試合では絶対に勝ってみせる。 Romaji: Kondo no shiai de wa zettai ni katte miseru. English: I'll definitely win the next match (and show you).

Example 2: Reassuring Someone

Japanese: 心配しないで、私がやってみせます。 Romaji: Shinpai shinaide, watashi ga yatte misemasu. English: Don't worry, I'll do it (and you'll see).

Example 3: Proving Ability

Japanese: 彼はみんなに自分の実力を見せつけてみせた。 Romaji: Kare wa minna ni jibun no jitsuryoku o misetsukete miseta. English: He showed everyone his true ability.

Example 4: Informal Conversation

Japanese: こんなの簡単さ。俺が解いてみせるよ。 Romaji: Konna no kantan sa. Ore ga toite miseru yo. English: This is easy. I'll solve it (and you'll see).

Example 5: Formal Written

Japanese: 私たちは最新の技術で問題を解決してみせます。 Romaji: Watashitachi wa saishin no gijutsu de mondai o kaiketsu shite misemasu. English: We will solve the problem with the latest technology.

5. Cultural Notes

Levels of Politeness

• てみせる can be used in both casual and formal contexts by adjusting the ending of the verb みせる.
  • Casual: みせる
  • Polite: みせます
• It's a strong expression, so be mindful of the context and relationship between speakers.

Idiomatic Expressions

• 見せつけてやる (misetsukete yaru): Means "I'll show you (in a boastful way)."
• Using てみせる adds emphasis on demonstrating one's capability or determination.

6. Common Mistakes and Tips

Error Analysis

• Mistake: Confusing てみせる with てみる.
  • てみる (te miru): Means "to try doing something."
  • てみせる (te miseru): Means "to show/prove by doing." Tip: Remember that みせる is "to show," so てみせる involves demonstrating through action.

Learning Strategies

• Mnemonic Device: Think of みせる as "to minifest" your ability.
• Practice by expressing your determination to do everyday tasks using てみせる.

7. Summary and Review

Key Takeaways

• Verb てみせる is used to express determination to show or prove something through action.
• It's formed by attaching みせる to the て-form of a verb.
• Conveys a strong will and is used to reassure, promise, or challenge.

Quick Recap Quiz

1. How do you form the てみせる grammar pattern?

   Verb (て-form) + みせる
   

2. Translate to English: 彼女はピアノを弾いてみせた。

   Answer: She played the piano (to show/prove her ability).

3. What is the difference between てみる and てみせる?

   • てみる: To try doing something.
   • てみせる: To show or prove by doing something.

Feel confident to use Verb てみせる to express your determination and show others what you can do!