Japanese, like any language, has its own set of phrasal verbs. These are combinations of verbs and other grammatical elements that together convey specific meanings. Phrasal verbs can be tricky because their meanings often can’t be deduced from the meanings of their individual parts. For English speakers learning Japanese, understanding and mastering these phrasal verbs can provide a significant boost to fluency and comprehension. This article will delve into some of the most common Japanese phrasal verbs, providing you with essential knowledge to navigate daily conversations and written texts with greater ease.
What Are Phrasal Verbs?
Phrasal verbs are combinations of a verb with a particle, which can be a preposition or an adverb. In English, examples include “give up,” “look after,” and “run into.” In Japanese, these combinations also exist, and they often follow similar principles. However, instead of prepositions or adverbs, Japanese phrasal verbs usually combine a verb with a noun, another verb, or a particle.
Common Japanese Phrasal Verbs
Understanding common Japanese phrasal verbs can significantly improve your language skills. Below are some frequently used phrasal verbs, their meanings, and examples of how to use them in context.
1. ～にする (ni suru)
Meaning: To decide on, to make into
This phrasal verb is commonly used to express a decision or transformation. The verb “する” (suru) means “to do,” and when combined with “に” (ni), it conveys the idea of making a choice or turning something into another state.
Examples:
– 昼ご飯はサンドイッチにする。 (Hirugohan wa sandoitchi ni suru.) – I’ll have a sandwich for lunch.
– 部屋をきれいにする。 (Heya o kirei ni suru.) – I’ll clean the room.
2. ～てみる (te miru)
Meaning: To try doing something
This phrasal verb combines the te-form of a verb with “みる” (miru), which means “to see.” It implies trying something to see what happens or to test it out.
Examples:
– 新しいレストランに行ってみる。 (Atarashii resutoran ni itte miru.) – I’ll try going to the new restaurant.
– この本を読んでみる。 (Kono hon o yonde miru.) – I’ll try reading this book.
3. ～ておく (te oku)
Meaning: To do something in advance, to prepare
This phrasal verb uses the te-form of a verb combined with “おく” (oku), which means “to place” or “to put.” When used in this context, it means to perform an action in preparation for something.
Examples:
– 旅行のために、ホテルを予約しておく。 (Ryokou no tame ni, hoteru o yoyaku shite oku.) – I’ll book the hotel in advance for the trip.
– 明日の会議のために、資料を用意しておく。 (Ashita no kaigi no tame ni, shiryō o yōi shite oku.) – I’ll prepare the documents for tomorrow’s meeting.
4. ～てしまう (te shimau)
Meaning: To finish completely, to do something accidentally
This phrasal verb combines the te-form of a verb with “しまう” (shimau). It can indicate the completion of an action or sometimes denote an action done unintentionally.
Examples:
– 宿題を全部やってしまった。 (Shukudai o zenbu yatte shimatta.) – I finished all my homework.
– 財布を忘れてしまった。 (Saifu o wasurete shimatta.) – I accidentally forgot my wallet.
5. ～てくる (te kuru)
Meaning: To come to, to do something and come back
This phrasal verb combines the te-form of a verb with “くる” (kuru), meaning “to come.” It suggests performing an action and then returning or indicates that something is approaching.
Examples:
– ちょっとコンビニに行ってくる。 (Chotto konbini ni itte kuru.) – I’ll just go to the convenience store and come back.
– 涙が出てくる。 (Namida ga dete kuru.) – Tears are coming out (I’m starting to cry).
6. ～ていく (te iku)
Meaning: To go and do something, to continue doing something
This phrasal verb uses the te-form of a verb combined with “いく” (iku), meaning “to go.” It indicates performing an action and then moving away or continuing an action into the future.
Examples:
– 彼はアメリカへ留学していく。 (Kare wa Amerika e ryuugaku shite iku.) – He will go to study abroad in America.
– このプロジェクトを続けていく。 (Kono purojekuto o tsuzukete iku.) – We will continue this project.
7. ～ている (te iru)
Meaning: To be doing something, continuous action
This phrasal verb combines the te-form of a verb with “いる” (iru), which means “to be.” It is used to express ongoing actions or states.
Examples:
– 私は今、映画を見ている。 (Watashi wa ima, eiga o mite iru.) – I am watching a movie now.
– 彼は毎日ジョギングしている。 (Kare wa mainichi jogingu shite iru.) – He jogs every day.
8. ～てくれる (te kureru)
Meaning: To do something for someone (favor)
This phrasal verb uses the te-form of a verb combined with “くれる” (kureru), which means “to give.” It indicates that someone is doing something for the speaker or for someone the speaker considers close.
Examples:
– 友達が宿題を手伝ってくれる。 (Tomodachi ga shukudai o tetsudatte kureru.) – My friend helps me with my homework.
– お母さんがご飯を作ってくれる。 (Okaasan ga gohan o tsukutte kureru.) – My mom makes food for me.
Tips for Mastering Japanese Phrasal Verbs
Understanding and using phrasal verbs effectively can be challenging, but there are some strategies you can employ to make the process easier.
1. Practice Regularly
Like any language skill, regular practice is crucial. Try to incorporate phrasal verbs into your daily conversations. Write sentences using new phrasal verbs and review them frequently.
2. Use Flashcards
Flashcards can be an excellent tool for memorizing phrasal verbs. Write the phrasal verb on one side and its meaning and an example sentence on the other.
3. Engage with Native Content
Watching Japanese TV shows, movies, and listening to music can expose you to phrasal verbs used in natural contexts. Pay attention to how they are used and try to mimic those usages.
4. Practice with a Language Partner
If possible, practice with a native speaker or a language partner. They can provide you with immediate feedback and help you understand the nuances of using phrasal verbs correctly.
5. Keep a Journal
Keeping a journal in Japanese can help you practice using phrasal verbs. Try to include a variety of phrasal verbs in your entries to reinforce your learning.
Conclusion
Phrasal verbs are an integral part of the Japanese language, and mastering them can significantly enhance your fluency and comprehension. By understanding their meanings and practicing their usage in context, you can become more confident in your Japanese language skills. Remember, the key to mastering phrasal verbs is consistent practice and exposure, so make them a regular part of your study routine. Happy learning!
