Product Description

Particles are the most difficult aspect of the Japanese language. Previous books take up particles as independent entities, enabling students to grasp the functions of the individual particles. The downside to this approach is that many particles share the same functions, but with slight differences, so though students may have grasped the general nature of each, they are unsure about the differences between shared function particles. This book solves this problem by grouping the particles that are similar in function, defining them, giving samples of usage, and pointing out differences. Each section is followed by exercises, so that students can test and confirm their knowledge. Thus, the student can easily access shared usage particles and understand their separate nuances.

Product Details

• Amazon Sales Rank: #298603 in Books
• Published on: 2005-04-26
• Original language: English
• Number of items: 1
• Binding: Paperback
• 200 pages

Synopsis
Particles are the most difficult aspect of the Japanese language. Previous books take up particles as independent entities, enabling students to grasp the functions of the individual particles. The downside to this approach is that many particles share the same functions, but with slight differences, so though students may have grasped the general nature of each, they are unsure about the differences between shared function particles. This book solves this problem by grouping the particles that are similar in function, defining them, giving samples of usage, and pointing out differences. Each section is followed by exercises, so that students can test and confirm their knowledge. Thus, the student can easily access shared usage particles and understand their separate nuances.

Customer Reviews

Great reference book, not a tutorial
This book does exactly what it says on the tin: it puts particles into functional groups (time, relative position, actions towards, quantity, etc) and describes their usage with practical examples. It is very easy to use, and most of the differences between similar particles are illustrated quite clearly. The exercises at the end of each section provide an effective means of testing what has been learned.

The only disadvantage is that example sentences are given in kanji/kana, and alternatively in romaji. This means that learners who have mastered hiragana and katakana but not the kanji will be put off from reading the Japanese text, and revert to the romanised text, which I personally find to be a step backwards. But others might not see it as relevant because the point is, after all, to learn about particles.

Overall this book is well worth the price, both for learners wishing to find out about the different particles, and for experienced Japanese speakers who want their grammar to be so sharp that it could shatter a katana.