Welcome, language enthusiast! Learning how to say “kakeru” can open up many opportunities for fruitful communication in Japanese. Whether you’re interested in using this versatile term with friends, colleagues, or locals during your travels, this comprehensive guide will provide you with the necessary insights and tips. In this guide, we will cover the formal and informal ways to say “kakeru,” showcasing various examples and highlighting any regional variations if necessary. So, let’s dive in!
Table of Contents
The Formal Way: “Kakeru” in Polite Language
In formal contexts, it’s important to use polite language in Japanese. When saying “kakeru” formally, you can utilize the following phrases:
- “Kakerimasu” (Kah-keh-ree-mahs) – This is the present tense polite form of “kakeru.” It is commonly used in formal situations, such as business meetings, interviews, or when speaking to individuals older than you.
- “Kakemasu” (Kah-keh-mahs) – This is the potential form of “kakeru” in the polite language. It implies the ability or possibility to do something. For example, you can use it to express that you have the ability to hang something on a wall.
- “Kake masen” (Kah-keh mah-sen) – The negative form of “kakeru” in polite language. Use it when expressing the inability or intention not to hang something on a wall, for instance.
Here are a few examples of “kakeru” in polite language:
Shashin o kakemasu ka? (Can I hang a picture?)
Ano kuruma wa kake masen. (I will not hang that car.)
The Informal Way: “Kakeru” in Casual Conversations
When engaging in informal conversations, whether with friends or in everyday situations, you will use a less formal version of “kakeru.” Here are a few examples:
- “Kaku” (Kah-koo) – This is the plain form of “kakeru.” It signifies a casual way of expressing the action of hanging something.
- “Kakenai” (Kah-keh-nai) – The negative form of “kakeru” in informal language. Use this when you want to say that you won’t hang something.
Let’s see “kakeru” in informal contexts:
Shashin o kaku? (Wanna hang a picture?)
Ano kuruma wa kakenai. (I won’t hang that car.)
Bonus Tips: Regional Variations
While Japanese is relatively consistent across regions, there can be minor variations in pronunciation or vocabulary. Here is a regional variation of “kakeru” found in certain areas:
In the Kansai region (which includes cities like Osaka and Kyoto), people tend to pronounce the short “a” sound as a long “a,” known as the “Ōsaka-ben” dialect. So, instead of “kakeru,” they might say “kēkeru.” Though it’s not necessary to adopt this variation, it’s interesting to be aware of regional linguistic nuances during your travels.
Now you’re equipped with knowledge on how to say “kakeru” in both formal and informal contexts. Remember to adapt your choice of expression based on the situation and the people you’re communicating with. Practice speaking, and you’ll gradually become more comfortable using “kakeru” confidently.
Let’s wrap up this guide with a final example:
Sashin o kakemasu ka? (May I hang a picture?)
Ano kuruma wa kakenai yo. (I won’t hang that car.)
Happy learning and conversing in Japanese! Ganbatte kudasai! (Good luck!)
