Japanese grammar
What does ～といい mean? Japanese grammar N4
～といい means it would be good if ~; I hope ~.
| Level (estimated, JLPT framework) | N4 |
|---|---|
| Structure | Plain form + といい Vた + ほうがいい (more direct advice) |
| Romaji | toii |
| Meaning | it would be good if ~; I hope ~ |
Forming it
| Connection | Plain form + といい / Vた + ほうがいい (more direct advice) |
|---|
How to use it
Expressing a wish or a gentle piece of advice based on a result considered good.
- ～といい states a desired result; the subject can be the speaker, the listener, or the situation.
- For specific advice to the listener, ～たらどうですか or ～たほうがいい is usually clearer.
Examples
明日、晴れるといいですね。
I hope it will be sunny tomorrow.
分からないときは、先生に聞くといいですよ。
When you do not understand, it is a good idea to ask the teacher.
Common mistakes
-
Wrong明日、晴れたといいです。
Correct明日、晴れるといいです。
A wish about the future usually uses the non-past form before といい.
Exam tips
- Distinguish the wish ～といい from the stronger advice ～ほうがいい.