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Starter 15

    Japanese Grammar – Wanting Things & Expressing Reactions

    ■ Nが ほしいんですが

    Meaning: “I want N, and…” / “I need N…”

    Formation:
    Noun + が + ほしいんですが…
    Key Point:

    Used to express that you want something and are seeking help, advice, or a response.

    が marks the item you want.

    ~んですが explains your situation politely and leads to a request or question.

    Example ①
    A:
    ドライバーが ほしいんですが、どこで 買[か]えますか? I need a screwdriver. Where can I buy one?
    B:
    ホームセンターに ありますよ。 The home center has them.
    Example ②
    客[きゃく]:
    ドライヤーが ほしいんですが、どこに ありますか?
    Customer:
    I need a hair dryer. Where can I find one?
    店員[てんいん]:
    3階[かい]で ございます。
    Staff:
    On the third floor.
    Example ③
    客[きゃく]:
    すみません。USBメモリが ほしいんですが…。
    Customer :
    Excuse me. I need a USB thumb drive…
    店員[てんいん]:
    あちらです。ご案内[あんない]します。
    Staff :
    They are over there. I’ll show you.

    ■ ナAですね / イAいですね

    Meaning: “[It’s] (adjective), isn’t it?” (expressing shared impression)

    Formation:

    ナ-adjective な + ですね

    イ-adjective い + ですね

    Key Point:

    Used to express your impression while inviting agreement from others.

    The particle ね adds a sense of empathy or shared feeling.

    Common in shopping and casual conversation.

    ■ ナA! / イAい!

    Meaning: “[It’s] (adjective)!” (expressing personal reaction)

    Formation:
    ナ-adjective な / イ-adjective い (standalone)
    Key Point:

    Used to express immediate or personal feelings.

    No ね is used — typically spoken to yourself or when reacting spontaneously.

    Example
    A:
    この帽子[ぼうし]、どう? How does this hat look?
    B:
    えー、ちょっと 変[へん]ですね。 Uh, it looks a little strange.

    A:
    このシャツ、かっこいい! This shirt is cool!
    B:
    本当[ほんとう]。それに、安[やす]いですね。 I know. It’s cheap, too.

    A:
    このワンピース、おしゃれ! This dress is stylish!
    B:
    ああ、いいですね。 Yeah, it’s nice.