Learning how to express the concept of “passive” in Japanese can greatly enhance your language skills. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore the formal and informal ways to convey the passive voice in Japanese, providing various tips, examples, and even shedding light on regional variations when necessary. So, let’s dive into the intricacies of the Japanese language!
Table of Contents
The Formal Way
When using the passive voice in formal Japanese, you typically rely on the auxiliary verb “れる” (reru). This verb attaches to the end of the verb you want to express in the passive form. Here’s an example:
私はりんごを食べれます。
Watashi wa ringo wo tabererumasu.
I can eat apples. (Passive)
In this case, “reru” transforms the active verb “tabemasu” (to eat) into “tabereru” (can be eaten). By adding “reru“, we indicate that the action is being performed passively.
The Informal Way
In informal Japanese, you can use the auxiliary verb “られる” (rareru) instead of “reru“. Let’s take a look at an example:
彼女は映画を見られる。
Kanojo wa eiga wo mirareru.
She can watch movies. (Passive)
Here, by using “rareru” instead of “reru“, we maintain an informal tone. The verb “mirareru” signifies that the movies can be watched passively by her.
Tips for Using the Passive Voice
Mastering the passive voice in Japanese requires some practice and attentiveness. Here are a few tips to keep in mind:
- 1. Context Matters: In Japanese, the omission of subjects is common due to context. Ensure the passive voice doesn’t cause confusion by providing enough context for the listener/reader to understand.
- 2. Politeness: Using the passive voice in formal situations adds a layer of politeness. Be mindful of the appropriate level of politeness required in different scenarios.
- 3. Be Clear and Concise: While the passive voice can be useful, don’t overuse it. Aim for clarity and conciseness in your communication.
Regional Variations
Although there are no significant regional variations in expressing the passive voice directly, it’s worth noting that certain dialects may have unique sentence structures that imply passivity. For example, in the Kansai dialect, instead of using the auxiliary verb “reru“, speakers often use the suffix “れる” (reru), or omit mentioning the subject altogether. While such variations exist, they are generally understood across different regions of Japan.
Further Examples
Let’s look at a few more examples of how to express the passive voice in different contexts:
1. 彼に本を読ませられた。
Kare ni hon wo yomaserareta.
I was made to read a book by him.
2. 日本語が話される国に行きたい。
Nihongo ga hanasareru kuni ni ikitai.
I want to go to a country where Japanese is spoken.
Conclusion
Congratulations on completing this comprehensive guide on how to say “passive” in Japanese! By understanding the formal and informal ways to express the passive voice, along with some helpful tips, examples, and even regional variations, you are well on your way to becoming proficient in Japanese. Remember to practice using the passive voice in various contexts to reinforce your understanding. Keep up the great work and enjoy your language journey!
