The Plain Form (Dictionary Form)
The Plain form (also known as Dictionary form) is used for casual conversations with friends and is the building block for many advanced grammar patterns.
Why do we need the Plain Form?
So far, you've learned the 'Masu-form' (e.g., tabemasu, nomimasu). This is polite and safe. But what if you are talking to a close friend or family member?
In casual situations, Japanese people drop the polite 'masu' and use the 'Plain form'. Because this is how verbs appear in a dictionary, it is often called the 'Dictionary form'.
Beyond casual speech, you MUST use the Plain form before adding other grammar words, like 'to think that...' (~to omoimasu) or 'because' (kara/node).
How to find the Dictionary Form
Casual vs Polite Sentences
Teacher's Advice
When asking a question in casual speech, NEVER use the particle 'ใ (ka)' at the end! Saying 'Iku ka?' sounds extremely rough and masculine, like you are a yakuza. Just say 'Iku?' with a rising intonation at the end.
JLPT Exam Patterns
- โขUsing Plain Form + ใจๆใใพใ (to omoimasu - I think that...) (N5/N4)
- โขUsing Plain Form + ๅใซ (mae ni - Before doing...) (N5)
- โขUsing Plain Form + ใคใใใงใ (tsumori desu - I intend to...) (N4)
Practice the Plain Form
Drill the conversion between Masu-form and Plain form until you can switch instantly.
Start Practice โ