Japanese grammar
What does ～ような気がする mean? Japanese grammar N2
～ような気がする means feel as if…; it seems like….
| Level (estimated, JLPT framework) | N2 |
|---|---|
| Structure | Plain form + ような気がする |
| Romaji | younakigasuru |
| Meaning | feel as if…; it seems like… |
Forming it
| Connection | plain form + ような気がする |
|---|
How to use it
States a vague FEELING with no clear basis. Softens an assertion.
- 「～ような気がする」 = have a feeling that, it seems as if. Not based on a definite basis.
- Used to soften a statement, avoiding a direct assertion: 「間違っているような気がする」.
- Different from 「～ようだ」 (an inference WITH observational basis): this pattern leans toward intuition.
Examples
前にもここへ来たような気がします。
I feel as though I have been here before.
今日は何かいいことが起こるような気がする。
I feel that something good will happen today.
Keep in mind
- An intuition, without a clear basis.
- Used to soften an assertion.
Common mistakes
-
Wrong来たように気がします。
Correct来たような気がします。
よう modifies 気 with な: ような気.
Exam tips
- 「ような気がする」 = a vague feeling (intuition); 「ようだ」 has an observational basis.