18. Basic grammar: Verbs and verb tenses

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Chapter 18: Basic Grammar: Verbs and Tenses

Before we dive into the study of verbs and tenses in the Japanese language, it is important to understand that the grammatical structure of Japanese is very different from most Western languages. In Japanese, word order is subject-object-verb, unlike English, which is subject-verb-object. Therefore, the verb always appears at the end of the sentence.

Verbs in Japanese are classified into three main groups: Group I verbs, Group II verbs, and irregular verbs. Each group has its own rules for conjugation in different tenses.

Group I Verbs

Group I verbs, also known as u verbs, are the most common. They are called u verbs because the verb ending in the present tense always ends with a "u" sound. For example, "taberu" (to eat), "nomu" (to drink), "kaku" (to write).

Group II Verbs

Group II verbs, also known as ru verbs, are slightly less common than u verbs, but are still widely used. These verbs always end with "ru" in the present tense. For example, "miru" (see), "neru" (sleep), "taberu" (eat).

Irregular Verbs

Irregular verbs do not follow regular conjugation rules and must be memorized individually. The two most common irregular verbs are "suru" (to do) and "kuru" (to come).

Verb tenses

Now that we understand the different groups of verbs, we can start exploring verb tenses. In Japanese, there are four main tenses: present, past, present negative, and past negative.

Gift

In the present tense, Group I verbs end in "u", Group II verbs end in "ru", and irregular verbs have their own unique forms.

Past

In the past tense, Group I verbs often change the ending "u" to "ta", Group II verbs change "ru" to "ta", and irregular verbs have their own unique forms.

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Negative Present

In the negative present tense, Group I verbs change the ending "u" to "wanai", Group II verbs change "ru" to "nai", and irregular verbs have their own unique forms.

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Negative Past

In the negative past tense, Group I verbs change the "u" ending to "wanakatta", Group II verbs change "ru" to "nakatta", and irregular verbs have their own unique forms.

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It is important to note that there are many exceptions and nuances in Japanese verb conjugation that cannot be fully covered in this chapter. However, with practice and continued study, you will become familiar with these rules and be able to use the verbs correctly in different contexts.

One of the best ways to learn and practice the basic grammar of verbs and tenses is through example sentences and dialogues, as well as practice exercises. So be sure to practice what you've learned in this chapter to reinforce your knowledge and skills.

We hope that this chapter has given you a good introduction to the basic grammar of Japanese verbs and tenses. Remember, the key to learning any language is constant practice and patience. Keep practicing and you'll see progress in your Japanese skills.

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6019. Basic grammar: Adjectives and adverbs