GrammarJLPT N5
topic definition marker
ExpressionParticle

Definitions

  1. 1. indicates word or phrase being defined
  2. 2. used for quoting (thoughts, speech, etc.)
  3. 3. with
This combination of the topic particle and the subject marker creates a pattern used to define or explain a concept, functioning like "as for what ~ means" or "the definition of ~." It is commonly used when explaining terms, asking for definitions, or providing clarifications. It often appears in dictionary-style explanations and academic or formal writing.

Grammar

Grammar lesson content not found for this point.

Example sentences

Initial · simple i+1

What is a 'cat'?

Sentence 1

What exactly do you mean by "problem"?

Sentence 2

By "now" here, I mean this moment.

Sentence 3

The "problem" right now is time.

Sentence 4

What do you mean by "normal"?

Sentence 5

Work is something you do every day.