Processing keyword: Verbる にはあたらない (Verb-ru ni wa ataranai)

Japanese Grammar Point: Verbる にはあたらない (Verb-ru ni wa ataranai)

Grammar Point: Verbるにはあたらない (Verb-ru ni wa ataranai)

1. Introduction

The expression Verbるにはあたらない (Verb-ru ni wa ataranai) is a Japanese grammar point used to convey that something is not worth the action or effort described by the verb. It's often used to imply that the situation is trivial or insignificant.

2. Core Grammar Explanation

Detailed Explanation

• Meaning: The phrase essentially means "it is not worth (doing)..." or "there’s no need to (do)...". It communicates that the action is unnecessary in a given context.
• Structure:
  • Verb + る (ru): This is the dictionary form of the verb, which represents the action.
  • にはあたらない (ni wa ataranai): This part is a fixed phrase where:
    • には (ni wa) indicates the target or focus (the action).
    • あたらない (ataranai) is the negative form of the verb あたる (ataru) which means "to be worth" or "to apply".

Formation Diagram

[Verb (dictionary form)] + にはあたらない

Example Structure

• 昨日の出来事について怒るにはあたらない。
  • (Kinou no dekigoto ni tsuite okoru ni wa ataranai.)
  • Translation: "It’s not worth getting angry about yesterday’s events."

3. Comparative Analysis

Comparison with Similar Grammar Points

• Verbする必要はない (Verb suru hitsuyou wa nai): This expression also conveys that there is no need to do something but can sound slightly more formal or definitive.
  • Example: 勉強する必要はない (Benkyou suru hitsuyou wa nai) - "There is no need to study."
• Verbてもさしつかえない (Verb-te mo sashitsukaenai): This can imply that it is acceptable to do something, but unlike にはあたらない, it doesn’t express insignificance.
  • Example: 行ってもさしつかえない (Itte mo sashitsukaenai) - "It won’t hurt to go."

4. Examples in Context

Sentence Examples

1. Formal Context:
   • この問題について議論するにはあたらない。
   • (Kono mondai ni tsuite giron suru ni wa ataranai.)
   • Translation: "It’s not worth discussing this issue."
2. Informal Context:
   • そんなことを気にするにはあたらないよ。
   • (Sonna koto o ki ni suru ni wa ataranai yo.)
   • Translation: "You shouldn’t worry about that kind of thing."
3. Written Context:
   • 彼女の選択を批判するにはあたらない。
   • (Kanojo no sentaku o hihan suru ni wa ataranai.)
   • Translation: "It's not necessary to criticize her choice."
4. Spoken Context:
   • 彼の意見を聞くにはあたらない。
   • (Kare no iken o kiku ni wa ataranai.)
   • Translation: "It’s not worth listening to his opinion."

5. Cultural Notes

Cultural Relevance

Using すごく (sugoku) and 全部 (zenbu) to exaggerate can make your statement more emphatic. This grammar point reflects the Japanese cultural tendency towards modesty and not making a big deal out of minor issues. It also demonstrates the importance of humility, as saying something is "not worth" implies a certain level of detachment and lack of urgency.

Idiomatic Expressions

• それほど大したことではない (Sorehodo taishita koto de wa nai): This phrase can express a similar sentiment: "It’s not that big of a deal."

6. Common Mistakes and Tips

Error Analysis

• Confusing with する必要がある (suru hitsuyou ga aru): Learners may wrongly use にはあたらない when expressing necessity instead of insignificance.

Learning Strategies

• Mnemonic Device: Remember that "あたらない" sounds like "not worth it" = "nothing" + "to do." If a situation is "not worth it," use "にはあたらない."

7. Summary and Review

Key Takeaways

• Verbるにはあたらない is used to express that doing a particular action is unnecessary or not worth the effort.
• It is formed by putting the verb in dictionary form followed by にはあたらない.

Quick Recap Quiz

1. What does "Verbるにはあたらない" mean in English?
2. How would you structure a sentence using this grammar point?
3. What is a common mistake when using this expression?

Answers

1. "It’s not worth (doing)..."
2. [Verb (dictionary form)] + にはあたらない
3. Confusing it with necessity phrases (e.g., する必要がある).