Japanese grammar
What does ～ね／～よ mean? Japanese grammar N5
～ね／～よ means ~, right? / ~, you know (sentence-final particles).
| Level (estimated, JLPT framework) | N5 |
|---|---|
| Structure | sentence + ね sentence + よ |
| Romaji | ~ ne / ~ yo |
| Meaning | ~, right? / ~, you know (sentence-final particles) |
How to use it
Add nuance to the end of a sentence.
- ね: seeks AGREEMENT, confirmation — "right?", "isn't it?". The listener is assumed to already know this too.
- よ: gives NEW INFORMATION the listener doesn't yet know — like adding emphasis.
- Misusing よ can sound a bit condescending (like lecturing someone), so be careful with people above you.
Examples
今日は暑いですね。
It's hot today, isn't it?
あの店は安いですよ。
That shop is cheap, you know.
Common mistakes
-
Wrong（with someone you've just met, giving directions）こちらですね。
Correctこちらですよ。
Information the listener does NOT yet know should use よ; ね is for seeking agreement on something both already know.