Japanese grammar
What does ～たる mean? Japanese grammar N1
～たる means in the position of; deserving of the title….
| Level (estimated, JLPT framework) | N1 |
|---|---|
| Structure | N + たる + N |
| Romaji | taru |
| Meaning | in the position of; deserving of the title… |
Forming it
| Connection | N + たる + N |
|---|
How to use it
States a lofty status and then derives the duty that comes with it. Classical style, used in exhortations and formal writing.
- 「Nたる者（もの）」 = one who bears the name N. The following clause is almost always an obligation: 「～べきだ」「～なければならない」.
- N is a role with social responsibility: 指導者・教師・政治家・親・社会人. Not used for a trivial role.
- 「たる」 is the classical form of 「である」, so it attaches directly to a noun: 「指導者たる者」, without adding 「の」.
Examples
指導者たる者、責任を持つべきだ。
A person worthy of being a leader should take responsibility.
教師たる者は、学び続けなければならない。
A teacher must continue learning.
Keep in mind
- Don't insert 「の」: 「指導者たる者」, not 「指導者のたる者」.
- The following clause must be an obligation, not a neutral description.
Common mistakes
-
Wrong指導者のたる者。
Correct指導者たる者。
A noun attaches directly to たる — don't add の.
Exam tips
- 「Nたる者」 = one who bears the name N must...; attaches directly to N, the following clause is an obligation.