Japanese grammar
What does ～んです／～のです mean? Japanese grammar N4
～んです／～のです means the thing is ~; actually, ~.
| Level (estimated, JLPT framework) | N4 |
|---|---|
| Structure | V／Aい (plain form) + んです Aな／N + なんです |
| Romaji | ~ n desu / ~ no desu |
| Meaning | the thing is ~; actually, ~ |
How to use it
Explains background, asks for an explanation, or opens a request based on a circumstance.
- のです turns the clause into an explanatory statement; んです is the common conversational form. It links the sentence to a circumstance both parties are observing or need to know.
- The question どうしたんですか doesn't just ask about an event but invites the listener to explain. When opening a request, ～んですが… states the circumstance and lets the request follow.
Examples
どうして遅れたんですか。—電車が止まったんです。
Why were you late? — The train stopped.
日本語の本を探しているんですが、どこにありますか。
I am looking for Japanese books; where can I find them?
Keep in mind
- Don't use んです for every neutral statement; there must be a need to explain, confirm, or introduce something.
Common mistakes
-
Wrongこの町は静かんです。
Correctこの町は静かなんです。
na-adjectives and nouns must add な before んです: 静かなんです／学生なんです.
Exam tips
- An na-adjective/noun right before んです needs な; this is a very common form-related trap.