ただ
Meanings
noun which may take the genitive case particle 'no', noun
Describes something that is not special, just the normal or everyday kind. Often used in phrases like ただの人 (an ordinary person) or ただの風邪 (just a common cold).
He's not just an ordinary office worker.
That's just a rumor.
noun which may take the genitive case particle 'no', noun
Means something costs nothing. Very common in everyday speech, e.g., ただで (for free).
You can use this app for free.
Nothing is more expensive than something free. (proverb)
noun which may take the genitive case particle 'no', noun
Used in set expressions like ただでは済まない (won't get away with it) or ただでは起きない (won't take it lying down). Implies that a situation will not end without consequences or change.
If you make him angry, you won't get away with it.
That failure didn't happen without reason.
Adverbial use meaning 'nothing more than'. Often interchangeable with だけ, but ただ can sound slightly more emphatic or literary. Common in ただ～だけ patterns.
I just wanted to see you.
That's nothing more than an excuse.
Conjunction used to introduce a contrasting statement. Often appears as ただ or ただし. Slightly formal; in casual speech でも or けど are more common.
This plan is good. However, it costs too much.
Participation is free. However, please apply in advance.
Usage patterns
- ただの〈人〉just an ordinary person
I don't think he's just an ordinary person.
- ただで〈動詞〉to do something free of charge
This app can be used for free.
- 〈事〉はただでは済まないthe situation won't end without consequences
If you make a mistake like this, it won't just blow over.
- ただ〈動詞〉だけだto merely do ~, nothing more
I just silently watched, nothing more.
- ただ、〈事〉however, ... (introducing a contrasting remark)
The food was delicious. However, it was a bit expensive.
- ただの〈物〉just a common, ordinary thing
That's just a common cold, so you don't need to worry.