Processing keyword: Verb る ところ (Verb-ru to koro)

Japanese Grammar Point: Verb る ところ (Verb-ru to koro)

Verb-るところ (Verb-ru tokoro)

1. Introduction

In this lesson, we'll explore the Japanese grammar point Verb-るところ (Verb-ru tokoro). This structure is used to express that an action is just about to happen. Mastering this grammar point will help you describe actions that are on the verge of occurring, enhancing your conversational skills.

2. Core Grammar Explanation

Meaning

Verb-るところ translates to "just about to do [Verb]" in English. It emphasizes that an action is imminent and is on the brink of starting.

Structure

To form this grammar point:

1. Take the dictionary form of the verb (Verb-る).
2. Add ところ (tokoro) after the verb. Formation:

Verb (dictionary form) + ところ

Formation Diagram

Visual Aid: Time Frame Illustration

Past ----------------- Present ----------------- Future
                            ▲
                       [Verb-るところ]
                   (Just about to do...)

3. Comparative Analysis

Similar Grammar Points

• Verb-ているところ: In the middle of doing something.
  • Example: 食べているところ (tabete iru tokoro) - In the middle of eating.
• Verb-たところ: Just finished doing something.
  • Example: 食べたところ (tabeta tokoro) - Just finished eating.

Differences and Nuances

• Verb-るところ: Action is about to start.
• Verb-ているところ: Action is currently happening.
• Verb-たところ: Action has just been completed.

4. Examples in Context

Example 1: Formal Speech

Sentence: 会議を始めるところです。 Romaji: Kaigi o hajimeru tokoro desu. Translation: We are just about to start the meeting.

Example 2: Informal Speech

Sentence: 今出かけるところだ。 Romaji: Ima dekakeru tokoro da. Translation: I'm about to head out now.

Example 3: Polite Request

Sentence: これから食事に行くところですが、一緒にいかがですか？ Romaji: Kore kara shokuji ni iku tokoro desu ga, issho ni ikaga desu ka? Translation: We're about to go out for a meal; would you like to join us?

Example 4: Written Context

Sentence: 新しいプロジェクトを始めるところで、チームの協力が必要です。 Romaji: Atarashii purojekuto o hajimeru tokoro de, chīmu no kyōryoku ga hitsuyō desu. Translation: We're about to start a new project, and we need the team's cooperation.

Example 5: Conversational

Sentence: 映画が始まるところだったのに、電話がかかってきた。 Romaji: Eiga ga hajimaru tokoro datta noni, denwa ga kakatte kita. Translation: I was just about to start the movie when I got a phone call.

5. Cultural Notes

Levels of Politeness and Formality

• Verb-るところ can be used in both formal and informal settings.
• Politeness is adjusted by the copula at the end:
  • です/ます forms for formal speech.
  • だ for informal speech.

Emphasis on Timing

• Japanese culture places importance on the timing and state of actions.
• Using ところ expressions accurately conveys respect for that timing in communication.

6. Common Mistakes and Tips

Common Mistakes

1. Using the wrong verb form:
   • Incorrect: 行っているところです。(Using て-form when about to do something)
   • Correct: 行くところです。
2. Confusing similar grammar points:
   • Mixing up Verb-るところ with Verb-ているところ or Verb-たところ.

Tips to Remember

• Mnemonic Device: Think of "る" as "ready to go"—the action is about to commence.
• Visualize the Timeline:
  • るところ: Action is on the threshold.
  • ているところ: Action is ongoing.
  • たところ: Action has just finished.

7. Summary and Review

Key Takeaways

• Verb-るところ is used to express that an action is just about to happen.
• Formed by adding ところ to the dictionary form of the verb.
• Different from Verb-ているところ (action in progress) and Verb-たところ (action just completed).

Quick Recap Quiz

1. How do you say "I am about to eat lunch" in Japanese? Answer: 昼ごはんを食べるところです。
2. Which verb form do you use with ところ to indicate an action that has just finished? Answer: Verb-たところ.
3. True or False: Verb-るところ is used to describe an action currently in progress. Answer: False.

By understanding and practicing Verb-るところ, you'll be able to express imminent actions confidently and naturally in Japanese conversations.