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
Naming and Labeling
Use 〜 to introduce names, labels, and definitions.
Start with the example
。
A mountain called Mount Fuji is world-famous.
The phrase introduces the name of the mountain.
Notice the variation
『』。
Do you know the word 'empathy'?
The phrase marks the label being introduced.
More detail: how to apply this
〜 can connect a name or label to a noun.
In this use it often means 'called' or 'named.'
Explain it another way
Try a different way of looking at the same idea.
Use the noun after to identify what the preceding proposition supplies: a name, message, definition, or viewpoint.
says this view also exists. The writer is presenting one perspective among others, not declaring it the only possible view.
。
There is also the view that ties between people are important.
Use the noun after to identify what the preceding proposition supplies: a name, message, definition, or viewpoint.
Showing Try this approach: Everyday words.
Target signal
。
A mountain called Mount Fuji is world-famous.
The phrase introduces the name of the mountain.
Vocabulary notes
- という
- called; that ...; saying that ...
Compare in context
『』。
Do you know the word 'empathy'?
The phrase marks the label being introduced.
Vocabulary notes
- 知っています
- know
Section 2 of 4
Definition and Explanation
Definition and Explanation
Start with the example
、。
Hanami is the custom of enjoying cherry blossoms in spring.
The phrase introduces a definition.
Notice the variation
、。
Diversity means the presence of many kinds of differences.
introduces the term; defines it. Recognizing or respecting diversity is a separate action.
More detail: how to apply this
〜 is often used to define, rephrase, or explain an idea.
It is very common in essays, lessons, and interviews.
Explain it another way
Try a different way of looking at the same idea.
Hanami is the custom of enjoying cherry blossoms in spring.
The phrase introduces a definition.
、。
Hanami is the custom of enjoying cherry blossoms in spring.
Return to the Japanese and locate the words supporting this meaning: Hanami is the custom of enjoying cherry blossoms in spring.
Showing Definition and Explanation: Everyday words.
Target signal
、。
Hanami is the custom of enjoying cherry blossoms in spring.
The phrase introduces a definition.
Vocabulary notes
- という
- called; that ...; saying that ...
Preview
、。
Diversity means the presence of many kinds of differences.
introduces the term; defines it. Recognizing or respecting diversity is a separate action.
Section 3 of 4
Reading Use
Use the noun after to identify what the preceding proposition supplies: a name, message, definition, or viewpoint.
Reading Use
。
Step 1 of 3 · Notice the clue
The full proposition is that connections between people are important. Keep it together before the following noun.
Step 1: Notice the clue
More detail: the reading method
When a text becomes dense, often helps organize information by naming, summarizing, or restating an idea.
Treat it as a signpost rather than translating each instance the same way.
Explain it another way
Try a different way of looking at the same idea.
In Japan, there is a spring event called hanami.
The phrase labels a cultural item.
、。
In Japan, there is a spring event called hanami.
Return to the Japanese and locate the words supporting this meaning: In Japan, there is a spring event called hanami.
Showing Reading Use: Everyday words.
More examples
Target signal
、。
In Japan, there is a spring event called hanami.
The phrase labels a cultural item.
Vocabulary notes
- という
- called; that ...; saying that ...
Preview
。
There is also the view that ties between people are important.
Here packages a clause as a labeled idea.
Vocabulary notes
- という
- called; that ...; saying that ...
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 .
introduces a name in the first phrase;
is a clause modifying in the second.
Explain it another way
Try a different way of looking at the same idea.
Same words, two possible interpretations. Which has evidence?
introduces a name in the first phrase; is a clause modifying in the second.
How do these two examples change the meaning?
Supported meaning: The name Yamada / words Yamada said
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.