Learn Japanese | Minna No Nihongo Lesson 1 Grammar

Introduction

This tutorial presents essential Japanese grammar points based on the "Minna No Nihongo Lesson 1" video. By following this guide, you will learn how to introduce yourself in Japanese, form affirmative and negative sentences, ask questions, and use honorifics. This foundational knowledge will aid you in basic conversations and self-introductions.

Chapter 1: N1 wa N2 desu

Structure and Meaning

• Pattern: N1 wa N2 desu
• Translation: N1 is N2
• Components:
  • N1: Subject or topic of the sentence (e.g., your name)
  • wa: Topic marker (pronounced as "wa" when used as a particle)
  • N2: Predicate, which can be a noun, verb, or adjective
  • desu: Politeness marker

Examples

1. Introducing Yourself:

   • Japanese: watashi wa Rose desu
   • English: I am Rose

2. Stating Nationality:

   • Japanese: watashi wa Philippine Jin desu
   • English: I am Filipino

3. Describing Another Person:

   • Japanese: De la Cruz san wa sensei desu
   • English: Mr. De la Cruz is a teacher.

Practical Tip

Always remember to use "desu" for polite introductions. In casual contexts, you may drop "desu."

Chapter 2: N1 wa N2 ja arimasen

Negative Form

• Pattern: N1 wa N2 ja arimasen
• Translation: N1 is not N2

Examples

1. Stating Identity:

   • Japanese: watashi wa Maria ja arimasen
   • English: I am not Maria.

2. Referring to Nationality:

   • Japanese: Maria wa Nihonjin ja arimasen
   • English: Maria is not Japanese.

Common Pitfall

Be careful with the negative form. Use "ja arimasen" for formal situations and "ja nai" for casual conversations.

Chapter 3: Question Formation

Structure for Questions

• Pattern: N1 wa N2 desu ka?
• Translation: Is N1 N2?

Examples

1. Asking About Occupation:

   • Japanese: De la Cruz san wa sensei desu ka?
   • English: Is Mr. De la Cruz a teacher?

2. Responses:

   • Affirmative: Hai, De la Cruz san wa sensei desu.
   • Negative: Iie, De la Cruz san wa sensei ja arimasen.

Using Interrogative Words

• Who: N1 wa donata desu ka?
• Example:
  • Japanese: Ano hito wa donata desu ka?
  • English: Who is that person?

Chapter 4: N1 mo

Meaning of "mo"

• Pattern: N1 mo N2 desu
• Translation: N1 is also N2

Examples

1. Expressing Similarity:
   • Japanese: James san wa engineer desu. Anthony mo engineer desu.
   • English: James is an engineer. Anthony is also an engineer.

Chapter 5: N1 no N2

Possessive Structure

• Pattern: N1 no N2
• Translation: N2 of N1

Examples

1. Describing Employment:

   • Japanese: Anthony wa IBM no shain desu.
   • English: Anthony is an employee of IBM.

2. Describing Education:

   • Japanese: James wa Manila Daigaku no gakusei desu.
   • English: James is a student of Manila University.

Chapter 6: Using -san

Honorific Titles

• Usage: -san is used to show respect (similar to Mr., Mrs., or Ms.)

Examples

1. Introducing Someone:

   • Japanese: Kochira wa Anthony Mabini san desu.
   • English: This is Mr. Anthony Mabini.

2. Polite Inquiries:

   • Japanese: Mabini san wa nansai desu ka?
   • English: How old are you, Mr. Mabini?

Chapter 7: How to Introduce Yourself

Self-Introduction Structure

1. Start with Greeting:

   • Japanese: Hajimemashite (How do you do?)

2. State Your Name:

   • Japanese: watashi wa (your name) desu.

3. Mention Nationality:

   • Japanese: watashi wa (nationality) desu.

4. End with Polite Phrase:

   • Japanese: Douzo yoroshiku onegaishimasu (Pleased to meet you).

Example of Full Introduction

• Japanese: Hajimemashite, watashi wa Maria Dela Cruz desu. Watashi wa Philippine Jin desu. Douzo yoroshiku onegaishimasu.
• English: How do you do, I am Maria Dela Cruz. I am Filipino. Pleased to meet you.

Conclusion

You now have a foundational understanding of basic Japanese grammar needed for introductions and simple conversations. Practice these structures often to build confidence. Consider expanding your vocabulary and practicing with native speakers to enhance your learning experience. Happy studying!