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〜よ
to inform, emphasize, remind, or give light commands.
1. Overview
「〜よ」 is a Japanese sentence-ending particle commonly used in casual conversation. It adds emotional nuance or emphasis to a statement, serving functions like informing, reminding, stressing, or issuing a soft command.
- Meaning: to inform, emphasize, remind, or give light commands.
2. Structure
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Grammar Structure:
- Sentence + よ
- Attached to verbs, adjectives, or nouns.
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Explanation:
- よ is used to add emotional tone or emphasis to a statement, often to inform or give a suggestion in a more casual or friendly manner.
3. Usage Explanation
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Informing or Reminding:
- When used to inform or remind someone, 「〜よ」 conveys new information or reminds the listener about something.
- 今日は休みだよ。
It's a day off today.
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Emphasis:
- Speakers use 「〜よ」 to emphasize what they are saying, often highlighting the importance of the information.
- これは本当に美味しいよ。
This is really delicious!
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Suggestion or Command:
- In casual speech, 「〜よ」 can be used for giving soft commands or suggestions with a gentle tone.
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Politeness:
- While 「〜よ」 is generally casual, it can also be used in polite contexts by adjusting the overall tone of the sentence.
4. Example Sentences
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明日は晴れるよ。
It will be sunny tomorrow.
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それは危ないよ。
That's dangerous!
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忘れ物に気をつけてよ。
Be careful not to forget anything!
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ここに座ってもいいよ。
You can sit here.
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頑張ってよ。
Do your best!
5. Similar Grammar
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〜ね: Used for seeking agreement or confirmation, and has a softer tone compared to 「〜よ」.
- Example: 寒いね。 (It's cold, isn't it?)
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〜ぞ/〜ぜ: Common in male speech, these particles indicate stronger emphasis than 「〜よ」.
- Example: 行くぞ。 (We're going!)
6. Summary
「〜よ」 is a common sentence-ending particle in Japanese, used to add emphasis, give suggestions, or inform someone in a casual, friendly way. Depending on the context, it can convey different emotions, making it a versatile particle for everyday conversation.