Jidoushi Tadoushi: Intransitive and Transitive Verbs in Japanese

Overview

• The document discusses the grammatical distinction between intransitive and transitive verbs in Japanese.
• Intransitive Verbs:
  • Actions that occur automatically without a direct object.
  • Example: "The door will open." The door opens automatically when approached.
• Transitive Verbs:
  • Actions where a subject acts upon a direct object.
  • Example: "I will open the door." A person opens the door intentionally.

Key Concepts

Intransitive Verbs

• Represent actions that are automatic or natural without requiring a direct object.
• Often set by particles indicating subjects, not objects.
• Example: "The train will leave the station." The train departs automatically.

Transitive Verbs

• Represent intentional actions performed by a subject on a direct object.
• Require a subject and a direct object in their sentence structure.
• Example: "I will take the train out from the station."

Verb Transformation Patterns

Pattern 1

• Verbs ending in -aru:
  • Intransitive verbs become transitive by replacing -aru with -eru.
  • Examples:
    • Intransitive:
      • 上がる (agaru): to rise
      • 集まる (atsumaru): to gather
    • Transitive:
      • 上げる (ageru): to raise
      • 集める (atsumeru): to collect

Pattern 2

• Verbs ending in -reru:
  • Intransitive verbs become transitive by replacing -reru with -su.
  • Examples:
    • Intransitive:
      • 掛かる (kakaru): to hang
    • Transitive:
      • 掛ける (kakeru): to hang (something)

Advanced Notes

• The use of particles can alter the meaning of sentences.
• Intransitive verbs can sometimes appear with transitive particles if they don't serve as direct objects.
• Avoid using the same particles repeatedly in a sentence to prevent confusion in Japanese grammar.

Vocabulary Highlights

• Intransitive to Transitive examples:
  • 増える (fueru): to increase — 増やす (fuyasu): to increase (something)
  • 変わる (kawaru): to change — 変える (kaeru): to change (something)
  • 決まる (kimaru): to be decided — 決める (kimeru): to decide

Practical Tips

• Do not memorize verb forms all at once; learn gradually.
• Recognizing verb patterns can aid in understanding and using Japanese verbs correctly.

By understanding these distinctions and patterns, one can better grasp the nuances of Japanese verb usage and structure. This guide aims to facilitate distinguishing between intransitive and transitive verbs effectively.