Japanese grammar
What does ～にとって mean? Japanese grammar N3
～にとって means for ~; to ~ (from the perspective / standpoint of evaluation).
| Level (estimated, JLPT framework) | N3 |
|---|---|
| Structure | N + にとって |
| Romaji | nitotte |
| Meaning | for ~; to ~ (from the perspective / standpoint of evaluation) |
Forming it
| Noun | 私 + にとって |
|---|
How to use it
States the standpoint or perspective from which an evaluation is made; the clause after is usually a judgment (important, difficult, convenient).
- 「～にとって」 states the STANDPOINT or perspective of a person/group, from which something is evaluated: “for someone…”.
- The clause after is usually an adjective/evaluation (important, difficult, convenient), NOT an active action.
- Different from 「に対して」 (target directed at/contrast): 「にとって」 emphasizes the evaluating viewpoint.
Examples
私にとって、家族が一番大切です。
For me, family is the most important thing.
留学生にとって、この制度は便利です。
For international students, this system is convenient.
Keep in mind
- The subject whose standpoint is expressed is usually a person or group.
- Modifying form: 「Nにとっての + N」 (私にとっての宝物).
Common mistakes
-
Wrong私にとって、日本語を勉強しています。
I am studying Japanese.
Correct私は日本語を勉強しています。
「にとって」 goes with an EVALUATION (important, difficult…), not an active action.
-
Wrong客にとって、丁寧に話す。
I spoke politely to the guest.
Correct客に対して、丁寧に話す。
An attitude directed at a target uses 「に対して」; 「にとって」 is an evaluating viewpoint.
Exam tips
- 「にとって」 = standpoint for evaluation (clause after is a judgment); an action directed at a target uses 「に対して」.