ある・いる

verbs used to indicate existence

1. Overview

「ある」(aru) and 「いる」(iru) are Japanese verbs used to indicate existence. The choice between the two depends on the nature of the subject being described: 「ある」 is used for inanimate objects, while 「いる」 is used for living beings (people and animals). Understanding the usage of these two verbs is essential for accurately expressing the existence of things.

2. Structure

• 「ある」

  • Used for the existence of inanimate objects or things.
  • Example: 机の上に本がある。
    (There is a book on the table.)

• 「いる」

  • Used for the existence of living beings (people and animals).
  • Example: 公園に犬がいる。
    (There is a dog in the park.)

3. Usage Explanation

• Conjugation:

  • The basic forms of 「ある」 and 「いる」 can be placed at the end of a sentence to indicate the existence of something.
  • For example:

    • Noun + が + ある
      家がある。
      (There is a house.)

    • Noun + が + いる
      子供がいる。
      (There is a child.)

• Negative Form:

  • The negative form of 「ある」 is 「ない」.
    Example: 家がない。
    (There is no house.)

  • The negative form of 「いる」 is 「いない」.
    Example: 子供がいない。
    (There is no child.)

4. Example Sentences

1. 公園に木がある。
   (There is a tree in the park.)

2. 家の中に猫がいる。
   (There is a cat inside the house.)

3. 机の上にペンがある。
   (There is a pen on the desk.)

4. 彼はそこにいる。
   (He is there.)

5. 教室に学生がいる。
   (There are students in the classroom.)

6. 庭に花がある。
   (There are flowers in the garden.)

7. 部屋の中に誰もいない。
   (There is no one in the room.)

8. この町にはスーパーがある。
   (There is a supermarket in this town.)

5. Important Notes

• Usage Context:

  • Use 「ある」 to refer to objects, places, concepts, etc., that are inanimate.
  • Use 「いる」 to refer to people, animals, and other living beings.

• Expression Habit:

  • In daily conversation, ensure to use the correct verb to make your dialogue sound more natural and accurate.

6. Summary

「ある」 and 「いる」 are fundamental verbs in Japanese for indicating existence. By distinguishing between living and non-living existence, one can accurately express the state of things. Mastering the usage of these two verbs is crucial for learners of Japanese and will aid in communicating more fluently.