Lesson article
Spot the signal, compare it, then read it in context
Read all 4 sections in order. Notice the target form, compare it with the nearby alternative, then use the reading and practice below to check the meaning in context.
Section 1 of 4
Core Meaning
Use 〜 for roles, functions, and qualifications.
Start with the example
。
I attended the meeting as a representative.
The noun marks the speaker's role.
Notice the variation
。
He is famous as a writer.
The phrase identifies the capacity in which he is known.
More detail: how to apply this
Noun + means 'as' or 'in the role/capacity of.' It shows the standpoint, function, or category in which something is considered.
Explain it another way
Try a different way of looking at the same idea.
Preserve the role or capacity that limits an evaluation.
gives the positive evaluation within that role. The claim does not guarantee the book serves every advanced research purpose.
。
This book is useful as an introductory text.
Preserve the role or capacity that limits an evaluation.
Showing Try this approach: Everyday words.
Target signal
。
I attended the meeting as a representative.
The noun marks the speaker's role.
Vocabulary notes
- として
- as; in the role of
Compare in context
。
He is famous as a writer.
The phrase identifies the capacity in which he is known.
Vocabulary notes
- として
- as; in the role of
Section 2 of 4
Roles and Functions
Roles and Functions
Start with the example
。
This book is useful as an introductory text.
The phrase identifies the function of the book.
Notice the variation
。
This room is used as a meeting room.
The noun states the role or purpose.
More detail: how to apply this
〜 works not only with people but also with objects and institutions when you mean 'used as' or 'valued as.'
Explain it another way
Try a different way of looking at the same idea.
This book is useful as an introductory text.
The phrase identifies the function of the book.
。
This book is useful as an introductory text.
Return to the Japanese and locate the words supporting this meaning: This book is useful as an introductory text.
Showing Roles and Functions: Everyday words.
Target signal
。
This book is useful as an introductory text.
The phrase identifies the function of the book.
Vocabulary notes
- この
- this
- として
- as; in the role of
Preview
。
This room is used as a meeting room.
The noun states the role or purpose.
Vocabulary notes
- として
- as; in the role of
Section 3 of 4
Reading Use
Preserve the role or capacity that limits an evaluation.
Reading Use
。
Step 1 of 3 · Notice the clue
The book is the object being evaluated.
Step 1: Notice the clue
More detail: the reading method
In essays and formal writing, 〜 often introduces a social role, professional identity, or evaluation standard.
It helps show from what angle the writer is describing the subject.
Explain it another way
Try a different way of looking at the same idea.
As an international student, one needs to get used to life in Japan quickly.
The role sets the relevant perspective.
、。
As an international student, one needs to get used to life in Japan quickly.
Return to the Japanese and locate the words supporting this meaning: As an international student, one needs to get used to life in Japan quickly.
Showing Reading Use: Everyday words.
More examples
Target signal
、。
As an international student, one needs to get used to life in Japan quickly.
The role sets the relevant perspective.
Vocabulary notes
- として
- as; in the role of
- 慣れる
- to get used to
Preview
。
Its responsibility as an educational institution is also significant.
The phrase narrows the viewpoint.
Vocabulary notes
- として
- as; in the role of
- 大きい
- big; loud
Section 4 of 4
Compare the meaning
Use the contrast to make a decision. Choose an answer before opening the explanation.
Example A
Example B
Your turn · decide before revealing
How do these two examples change the meaning?
More detail: what changes and why
Compare and .
marks capacity;
marks subject matter.
Explain it another way
Try a different way of looking at the same idea.
Same words, two possible interpretations. Which has evidence?
marks capacity; marks subject matter.
How do these two examples change the meaning?
Supported meaning: Speak as representative / speak about the representative
Use the sentence to choose between these interpretations; do not add information that is only in an answer choice.
Showing Compare the meaning: Everyday words.