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 idea
Recognize 〜 as a formal way to state rules and instructions.
Start with the example
。
Do not use mobile phones during class.
-form + creates a prohibition in written rules.
Notice the variation
。
Be quiet in the library.
Dictionary form + creates a required action.
More detail: how to apply this
In written rules, notices, and formal instructions, verbs + can mean 'must do' or 'do not do.' It sounds impersonal and official.
Explain it another way
Try a different way of looking at the same idea.
Read the notice’s final as an instruction, then preserve its time, place, and polarity.
ends a written instruction requiring the action. It is not simply a noun phrase about the concept of writing in this notice.
、。
Before the interview, write your name at reception.
Read the notice’s final as an instruction, then preserve its time, place, and polarity.
Showing Try this approach: Everyday words.
Target signal
。
Do not use mobile phones during class.
-form + creates a prohibition in written rules.
Vocabulary notes
- 授業中
- during class
- こと
- thing; matter; fact
Compare in context
。
Be quiet in the library.
Dictionary form + creates a required action.
Vocabulary notes
- 図書館
- library
Section 2 of 4
Formation and patterns
Formation and patterns
Start with the example
。
Turn in assignments by Friday.
This is notice-style Japanese, not a personal request.
Notice the variation
。
Do not park a car here.
Stop or park verbs often appear in posted rules.
More detail: how to apply this
Use dictionary form + for required behavior and -form + for prohibition.
This pattern is especially common in posted rules and written guidance.
Explain it another way
Try a different way of looking at the same idea.
Turn in assignments by Friday.
This is notice-style Japanese, not a personal request.
。
Turn in assignments by Friday.
Return to the Japanese and locate the words supporting this meaning: Turn in assignments by Friday.
Showing Formation and patterns: Everyday words.
Target signal
。
Turn in assignments by Friday.
This is notice-style Japanese, not a personal request.
Vocabulary notes
- 金曜日
- Friday
- まで
- until; up to
- こと
- thing; matter; fact
Preview
。
Do not park a car here.
Stop or park verbs often appear in posted rules.
Vocabulary notes
- ここに
- here
- こと
- thing; matter; fact
Section 3 of 4
Reading and nuance
Read the notice’s final as an instruction, then preserve its time, place, and polarity.
Reading and nuance
、。
Step 1 of 3 · Notice the clue
sets when the instruction must be followed: before the interview.
Step 1: Notice the clue
More detail: the reading method
Compared with 〜, 〜 is firmer and more formal.
It often appears without a subject because the rule applies generally.
Explain it another way
Try a different way of looking at the same idea.
Before the interview, write your name at reception.
The subject is omitted because the rule applies generally.
、。
Before the interview, write your name at reception.
Return to the Japanese and locate the words supporting this meaning: Before the interview, write your name at reception.
Showing Reading and nuance: Everyday words.
More examples
Target signal
、。
Before the interview, write your name at reception.
The subject is omitted because the rule applies generally.
Vocabulary notes
- 前に
- before
- 受付
- reception desk
- こと
- thing; matter; fact
Preview
。
Do not place things in front of the emergency exit.
This style is common in signs and manuals.
Vocabulary notes
- こと
- thing; matter; fact
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
on instructions
Your turn · decide before revealing
How do these two examples change the meaning?
More detail: what changes and why
Compare and on instructions.
Sentence-final gives a written instruction here;
the verb's polarity determines the required behavior.
Explain it another way
Try a different way of looking at the same idea.
Same words, two possible interpretations. Which has evidence?
Sentence-final gives a written instruction here; the verb's polarity determines the required behavior.
How do these two examples change the meaning?
Supported meaning: Write your name / do not write your name
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.