Processing keyword: Verb てみる (〜te miru)

Japanese Grammar Point: Verb てみる (〜te miru)

Grammar Point: Verb てみる (〜te miru)

1. Introduction

The expression Verb てみる (〜te miru) is commonly used in Japanese to express the idea of trying something out or attempting to do something. This structure allows speakers to convey curiosity or experimentation with an action.

2. Core Grammar Explanation

Detailed Explanation

The structure Verb てみる is formed by taking the て-form of a verb and adding みる.

• Verb て-form: This is a conjugated form of the verb that typically ends in て (for example, 見る becomes 見て).
• みる (miru): This verb means "to see" or "to try."

Meaning

Using Verb てみる indicates an attempt to perform an action, usually to see how it goes or what the result is.

Structure

3. Comparative Analysis

Verb てみる (〜te miru) vs. Verb ておく (〜te oku)

• てみる focuses on trying out an action to see what happens.
• ておく indicates doing something in preparation for something else. Example:
• 食べてみる: Try to eat.
• 食べておく: Eat (something) in advance to prepare for later.

4. Examples in Context

Sentence Examples

1. Formal:
   • 日本料理を作ってみました。
     • Nihon ryōri o tsukutte mimashita.
     • "I tried making Japanese food."
2. Informal:
   • このアプリを使ってみてください。
     • Kono apuri o tsukatte mite kudasai.
     • "Please try using this app."
3. Written:
   • 新しい言語を勉強してみるのは楽しいです。
     • Atarashī gengo o benkyou shite miru no wa tanoshii desu.
     • "Trying to study a new language is fun."
4. Spoken:
   • この映画、見てみた？
     • Kono eiga, mite mita?
     • "Have you tried watching this movie?"

5. Cultural Notes

Cultural Relevance

In Japanese culture, trying new experiences is often encouraged, whether it’s food, music, or activities. Using てみる reflects openness to new experiences and curiosity.

Levels of Politeness

• The formality of みる can be adjusted based on context (e.g., 見ます (mimasu) in a more polite context).

Idiomatic Expressions

• 試してみる (tameshite miru): "to try (something) out".

6. Common Mistakes and Tips

Error Analysis

1. Forgetting the て-form: It's essential to use the correct て-form of the verb.
2. Skipping みる: Just using the verb without みる doesn’t convey the same meaning of trying.

Learning Strategies

• Mnemonic Device: Remember "みる" as "to see" what happens when you try something new.
• Practice With Context: Create sentences about things you would like to try or have tried.

7. Summary and Review

Key Takeaways

• Verb てみる is used to express trying something out.
• It comprises the て-form of a verb + みる.
• Context impacts the formality and nuance of the expression.

Quick Recap Quiz

1. What is the structure of Verb てみる?
2. How does Verb てみる differ from Verb ておく?
3. Create a sentence using Verb てみる in a casual context.

By understanding and using Verb てみる, you can effectively express your willingness to try new experiences in Japanese!