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Using Japanese: A Guide to Contemporary Usage
This is a guide to Japanese usage for students who have acquired the basics of the language and wish to extend their knowledge. Unlike conventional grammars, it gives special attention to those areas of vocabulary and grammar that cause the most difficulty to English speakers. Careful consideration is given throughout to questions of style, register, and politeness, and there are sections on social rituals such as greetings, introductions and apologies. Clear, readable and easy to consult, with two indexes (Japanese and English), this is an essential reference for learners seeking access to the finer nuances of the Japanese language.
- GenresJapanese Literature
348 pages, Paperback
First published November 9, 2000
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August 10, 2013
Before the formal review, I'd like to mention that I have probably 30 books on Japanese grammar, particles, idioms, etc. so I've seen a lot of what is out there. I have been studying Japanese for almost 20 years. This book is a rare gem for several reasons.
First, this book does expand on things that normal grammar books seem to cut short. For example, the third section is called "Grammar and Verbal Strategies." This section alone is worth the price of the book. It really focuses on several aspects of Japanese grammar and tell you exactly what the differences and nuances are between similar structures. Japanese students will know the "conditional" forms such as "tara" "to" and "toki" etc. Most books leave out some very important information on the nuances between these forms. Not this book. You will know EXACTLY when to use each one, or when not to use them.
Another highlight in this section is talking about the forms "You" "rashii" and "mitai". Japanese students know these forms are very similar, and often times interchangeable, but this book CLEARLY defines the differences.
But it doesn't stop there. There is just so much packed into this book, that every page is like a study session in and of itself. It's like the authors were trying to pack as much into the book as they possibly could, and boy they couldn't have fit anymore in without making the book longer.
First, this book does expand on things that normal grammar books seem to cut short. For example, the third section is called "Grammar and Verbal Strategies." This section alone is worth the price of the book. It really focuses on several aspects of Japanese grammar and tell you exactly what the differences and nuances are between similar structures. Japanese students will know the "conditional" forms such as "tara" "to" and "toki" etc. Most books leave out some very important information on the nuances between these forms. Not this book. You will know EXACTLY when to use each one, or when not to use them.
Another highlight in this section is talking about the forms "You" "rashii" and "mitai". Japanese students know these forms are very similar, and often times interchangeable, but this book CLEARLY defines the differences.
But it doesn't stop there. There is just so much packed into this book, that every page is like a study session in and of itself. It's like the authors were trying to pack as much into the book as they possibly could, and boy they couldn't have fit anymore in without making the book longer.
Displaying 1 of 1 review