Processing keyword: A。けれども、～B。(A. Keredomo,~ B.)
Japanese Grammar Point: A。けれども、～B。(A. Keredomo,~ B.)
1. Introduction
In this lesson, we'll explore the Japanese grammar point A。けれども、～B。, which is used to connect two statements where the second contrasts with or provides an exception to the first. Understanding how to use けれども will enhance your ability to express contrasting ideas, much like "however" or "but" in English.
2. Core Grammar Explanation
Meaning
けれども is a conjunction that means "but", "however", or "though". It is used to link two sentences where the second sentence presents a contrast, contradiction, or unexpected result in relation to the first sentence.
Structure
The structure for using けれども in this pattern is as follows:
A。けれども、B。
- A: A complete sentence ending with plain form.
- けれども: Conjunction meaning "however" or "but".
- B: The contrasting statement.
Formation Diagram
| Form | Example |
|---|---|
| Sentence A | 明日は雨が降るらしい。 |
| けれども | けれども、 |
| Sentence B | 試合は中止にならない。 |
| Full Sentence | 明日は雨が降るらしい。けれども、試合は中止にならない。 |
Detailed Explanation
- Sentence A ends with a plain form (can be present or past tense).
- けれども can be used at the beginning of a new sentence to show contrast.
- Sentence B presents a situation that contrasts with what would be expected from Sentence A.
Visual Aid: Flow Diagram
graph LR
A[Sentence A]
--> |けれども| B[Sentence B]
3. Comparative Analysis
けれども vs. other contrasting conjunctions:
| Conjunction | Usage | Politeness Level |
|---|---|---|
| けれども | Conversational, written | Neutral |
| が | Formal writing, polite speech | Polite |
| でも | Conversational, at start of B | Casual |
| しかし | Formal, written | Formal |
| だけど | Casual speech | Casual |
| Example Comparison: |
- けれども: 雨が降っています。けれども、出かけます。
- が: 雨が降っていますが、出かけます。
- でも: 雨が降っています。でも、出かけます。
- しかし: 雨が降っています。しかし、出かけます。
- だけど: 雨が降っています。だけど、出かけます。
4. Examples in Context
Example 1: Formal Context
Japanese: 新しいパソコンを買いました。けれども、使い方がよく分かりません。 Romaji: Atarashii pasokon o kaimashita. Keredomo, tsukaikata ga yoku wakarimasen. Translation: I bought a new computer. However, I don't quite understand how to use it.
Example 2: Informal Speech
Japanese: 昨日勉強した。けれども、テストに合格できなかった。 Romaji: Kinō benkyō shita. Keredomo, tesuto ni gōkaku dekinakatta. Translation: I studied yesterday. But I couldn't pass the test.
Example 3: Expressing Unexpected Result
Japanese: この道は近い。けれども、危険だ。 Romaji: Kono michi wa chikai. Keredomo, kiken da. Translation: This road is short. However, it's dangerous.
Example 4: Written Communication
Japanese: 提案を送りました。けれども、ご返事をいただいておりません。 Romaji: Teian o okurimashita. Keredomo, gohenji o itadaite orimasen. Translation: I sent the proposal. However, I haven't received a reply.
5. Cultural Notes
Levels of Politeness
- けれども is considered neutral and can be used in both formal and informal contexts.
- In very formal writing or speeches, しかし or が might be preferred.
- In casual conversations, shorter forms like けど or だけど are commonly used.
Idiomatic Expressions
- とはいえけれども: Means "Having said that, however..." Used to acknowledge a point but introduce a contrast.
6. Common Mistakes and Tips
Common Mistake 1: Using the Wrong Conjunction
- Error: Using けれども in very formal writing where しかし is more appropriate.
- Tip: Remember that けれども is neutral; for formal writing, consider using しかし.
Common Mistake 2: Incorrect Placement
- Error: Placing けれども at the end of Sentence A without a period.
- Incorrect: 新しい靴を買ったけれども、サイズが合わない。
- (This is correct in spoken Japanese but not following the A。けれども、B。 pattern.)
- Tip: Ensure Sentence A ends with a period when using this pattern.
Learning Strategy
- Mnemonic Device: Think of けれども as a bridge between two contrasting islands (sentences). The period after A signifies the end of one island before crossing the bridge to the next.
7. Summary and Review
Key Takeaways
- けれども means "but" or "however" and connects two contrasting sentences.
- The structure is A。けれども、B。, with a period after Sentence A.
- It is neutral in politeness and suitable for both formal and informal contexts.
- Be mindful of choosing the appropriate conjunction based on formality.
Quick Recap Quiz
- What does けれども mean in English?
- Answer: "But", "however", or "though".
- Is けれども considered formal or casual?
- Answer: Neutral; suitable for both formal and informal contexts.
- Translate the following sentence:
- Japanese: 天気は悪い。けれども、試合は行われる。
- Answer: The weather is bad. However, the game will be held.
By mastering A。けれども、～B。, you'll be able to express contrasting ideas more naturally in Japanese and enhance your overall fluency.