21. Basic grammar: formal and informal form

The e-book course "Complete Course of Basic Japanese Level" is developing a chapter dedicated to basic grammar, focusing specifically on the formal and informal form of the Japanese language. This chapter, titled "21. Basic Grammar: Formal and Informal Form", is designed to help students understand the nuances of formal and informal language in Japanese.

First, it is important to understand that Japanese, like many other languages, has different levels of formality that are used depending on the context. Using these levels of formality correctly is crucial to communicating effectively and respectfully in Japanese. The formal form is called "keigo" and the informal form is called "kudaketa".

The formal form, or "keigo," is used in formal situations such as business meetings, speeches, and when speaking to older or higher-status people. It is characterized by the use of verbs in their "masu" and "desu" form, and the use of more polite vocabulary and expressions. For example, the phrase "I'm going" would be "ikimasu" in formal form.

The informal form, or "kudaketa", is used in casual situations, such as conversations with friends, family, and people of the same age or rank. It is characterized by the use of verbs in their dictionary form and the use of slang and more casual expressions. Using the same example as above, the phrase "I'm coming" would be "iku" informally.

It is important to note that while using the informal form may seem easier because it is shorter and more direct, it is essential to learn the formal form to avoid being perceived as rude or disrespectful. Furthermore, the formal form is often used in written texts such as newspaper articles, books and formal emails, so it is an essential skill for reading and writing in Japanese.

This chapter of the e-book course will include a series of hands-on exercises to help students become familiar with formal and informal form. These exercises will include translating sentences from English to Japanese in both forms, identifying the form used in different texts, and practicing conversation at both levels of formality.

In addition, the chapter will also include a detailed section on Japanese verb conjugation, as the verb form is one of the main differences between the formal and informal form. This section will explain how verbs are conjugated in different tenses and moods in both forms, with examples and exercises to reinforce learning.

In summary, the chapter "21. Basic Grammar: Formal and Informal Form" of the e-book course "Comprehensive Basic Japanese Course" is a valuable resource for anyone learning Japanese. It offers a detailed explanation of the formal and informal forms of the language, along with practical exercises to help students master these important concepts.

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63Japanese culture: Etiquette and behavior

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