Processing keyword: Verb ようと Verbる まいと (Verb you to Verb ru mai to)

Japanese Grammar Point: Verb ようと Verbる まいと (Verb you to Verb ru mai to)

〜ようと〜まいと (Verb ようと Verbるまいと)

1. Introduction

In this lesson, we will explore the Japanese grammar point 〜ようと〜まいと (Verb you to Verb-ru mai to), which expresses the idea of "whether or not" an action occurs. This structure is used to indicate that the outcome remains the same regardless of whether the action happens. Understanding this grammar point will help you express determination and indifference towards certain conditions in Japanese.

2. Core Grammar Explanation

Meaning

〜ようと〜まいと conveys "whether (someone) does or doesn't do something, the result will be the same." It emphasizes that the action or condition does not affect the outcome.

Formation

To form this grammar structure:

1. Verb Volitional Form + と
2. Verb Dictionary Form + まいと They are used together in a sentence to show that regardless of whether the action is undertaken or not, the subsequent outcome remains unchanged.

Diagram

[Verb Volitional Form] と [Verb Dictionary Form] まいと 、[Result]

How to Form the Volitional Form and まい Form

• Group 1 Verbs (五段動詞):
  • Volitional Form: Change the u vowel to the ō vowel.
    • 書く → 書こう
  • まい Form: Use the dictionary form + まい
    • 書く → 書くまい
• Group 2 Verbs (一段動詞):
  • Volitional Form: Add よう to the stem.
    • 食べる → 食べよう
  • まい Form: Use the dictionary form + まい
    • 食べる → 食べるまい
• Irregular Verbs:
  • する → しよう / するまい
  • 来る → 来よう（こよう） / 来るまい（くるまい）

3. Comparative Analysis

Similar Grammar Points

• 〜ても〜なくても: Means "whether or not".
  • Example: 雨が降っても降らなくても、試合は行われる。
  • Usage: More commonly used in everyday conversation.
• 〜にせよ〜にせよ: Also means "whether... or..."
  • Example: 行くにせよ行かないにせよ、連絡してください。 Difference:
• 〜ようと〜まいと is more formal and emphasizes that an action does not influence the result, often used to express determination or indifference.
• 〜ても〜なくても is more neutral and commonly used in both spoken and written Japanese.

4. Examples in Context

Example Sentences

1. 雨が降ろうと降るまいと、私は出かけます。
   • Ame ga furou to furu mai to, watashi wa dekakemasu.
   • Translation: Whether it rains or not, I will go out.
2. 彼が来ようと来るまいと、会議は予定通り行われる。
   • Kare ga koyou to kuru mai to, kaigi wa yotei doori okonawareru.
   • Translation: Whether he comes or not, the meeting will proceed as scheduled.
3. 試験に合格しようとしまいと、努力したことに意味がある。
   • Shiken ni goukaku shiyou to shimai to, doryoku shita koto ni imi ga aru.
   • Translation: Whether you pass the exam or not, the effort you put in is meaningful.
4. 父は周りが反対しようとしまいと、自分の道を進む人だ。
   • Chichi wa mawari ga hantai shiyou to shimai to, jibun no michi o susumu hito da.
   • Translation: My father is someone who pursues his own path whether others oppose him or not.
5. 時間があろうとなかろうと、このプロジェクトを完成させなければならない。
   • Jikan ga arou to nakarou to, kono purojekuto o kansei sasenakereba naranai.
   • Translation: Whether we have time or not, we must complete this project.

Contextual Usage

• Formal/Written Context: This grammar point is often used in written Japanese or formal speeches to express strong will or to emphasize that the outcome is unaffected by certain actions.
• Expressing Determination: It highlights the speaker's resolve or indifference towards circumstances.

5. Cultural Notes

Cultural Relevance

In Japanese culture, expressing determination and unwavering commitment is valued, especially in professional and academic settings. Using 〜ようと〜まいと can convey a strong sense of responsibility and dedication, qualities that are respected in Japanese society.

Politeness and Formality

• This grammar structure is relatively formal and is more likely to be found in written language, speeches, or formal discussions.
• Using this pattern in casual conversation might sound overly stiff or dramatic.

Idiomatic Expressions

• 泣こうがわめこうが（Nakou ga wamekou ga）: "Whether you cry or scream" – meaning no matter how much fuss is made, the result won't change.
  • Though slightly different, it carries a similar nuance of indifference to the action expressed.

6. Common Mistakes and Tips

Error Analysis

• Incorrect Volitional Form: Misforming the volitional form of verbs.
  • Incorrect: 食べるようと食べるまいと
  • Correct: 食べようと食べるまいと
• Using Negative Form Instead of まい:
  • Incorrect: 行こうと行かないと
  • Correct: 行こうと行くまいと

Tips to Remember

• Mnemonic Device: Think of "Volitional と / Dictionary Form + まいと" as setting up two possibilities: doing or not doing.
• Practice Conjugation: Regularly practice forming volitional and まい forms to become familiar with the patterns.
• Context Matters: Remember that this structure is formal. Use it appropriately to match the level of politeness required.

7. Summary and Review

Key Takeaways

• 〜ようと〜まいと expresses "whether (do) or (not do), the result is the same."
• Formed using the volitional form and dictionary form + まいと.
• It is a formal expression, suitable for written language and formal speech.
• Emphasizes determination or that the outcome is unaffected by certain actions.

Quick Recap Quiz

1. How do you form the 〜ようと〜まいと grammar structure?
2. Translate the following sentence: 彼女が参加しようとしまいと、計画は変わらない。
3. Is 〜ようと〜まいと more common in formal or casual conversations?
4. What is a common mistake learners make with this grammar point?

Answers:

1. Volitional Form + と + Dictionary Form + まいと
2. "Whether she participates or not, the plan doesn't change."
3. It is more common in formal conversations.
4. Using incorrect verb forms, such as misforming the volitional form or incorrectly using the negative instead of まい.

By mastering 〜ようと〜まいと, you can express complex sentences that show determination and unaffected outcomes, adding depth to your Japanese language skills.