Translation guide
The concept of subordination in Japanese is expressed through various grammatical structures that link clauses, showing relationships like cause, condition, time, and concession. Unlike English, Japanese relies heavily on conjunctions, particles, and verb forms to indicate subordination.
Expressing that one clause is subordinate to another, often indicating reason, time, condition, etc.
The te-form is the most common way to link clauses, often implying a sequential or causal relationship. It can express subordination in a loose sense.
I woke up in the morning and washed my face.
Indicates a reason or cause, similar to 'because'. The subordinate clause comes before から.
Because it rained, the game was canceled.
Similar to から but slightly more formal or objective. Used for reason/cause.
Because the train was late, I was late.
Used to connect contrasting clauses, similar to 'but' or 'although'. The first clause is subordinate.
Japanese is difficult, but it's interesting.
Expresses 'although' or 'despite', often with a sense of regret or unexpectedness. Stronger than が.
Although I studied a lot, I failed the exam.
Expressing that one action occurs before, after, or at the same time as another.
Means 'when'. The clause before とき is subordinate and describes the time.
When I went to Japan, I saw Mt. Fuji.
Often used for 'when' or 'after' in a conditional/temporal sense. The subordinate clause sets the condition.
When I get home, I'll do my homework right away.
Means 'before'. The clause before 前に is subordinate.
Before I sleep, I read a book.
Means 'after'. The clause before 後で is subordinate.
After I eat, I take a walk.
Expressing a condition under which the main clause occurs.
Conditional form meaning 'if'. The subordinate clause states the condition.
If it rains, the game will be canceled.
Also used for 'if' in many contexts, often more colloquial than ば.
If it's cheap, I'll buy it.
Used for 'if' when the condition is based on the speaker's assumption or given information.
If you're going to Japan, Kyoto is good.
Used for natural consequence or habitual condition, similar to 'whenever' or 'if...then'.
When spring comes, flowers bloom.
Expressing that something happens despite a condition.
Means 'even if' or 'even though'. The subordinate clause is the concessive condition.
Even if it rains, I'll go.
As above, expresses 'although' with a nuance of regret or surprise.
Although it's expensive, it sells well.
Can mean 'although' when attached to a verb stem, often used in written language.
Although he is young, he is admirable.
Expressing the purpose of an action.
Using a clause to modify a noun, similar to relative clauses in English.
In Japanese, relative clauses directly precede the noun without a relative pronoun. The subordinate clause modifies the noun.
The book I bought yesterday is interesting.
The English word 'subordination' as a grammatical term does not have a single direct Japanese equivalent. Instead, focus on the specific type of clause relationship you want to express.
Both mean 'because', but ので is slightly more formal and objective. から can sound more subjective or direct. In polite speech, ので is often preferred for giving reasons.
I have something to do, so please excuse me.
The te-form is extremely versatile and can imply cause, means, or sequential action. It's often the most natural way to link clauses in casual speech.
I was tired and couldn't do anything.