〜たら

If...; when...; once...

1. Overview

The expression "〜たら" is a conditional form used in Japanese to indicate that if a certain condition is met, a specific outcome will follow. It can also refer to situations that will occur when a certain event happens.

2. Structure

• Grammar Structure:

  • Verb (た-form) + ら
  • い形容词 (た-form) + ら
  • な形容词 (な-form) + ら
  • 名词 + なら

• Explanation: This structure is used to express a conditional statement, where the first part indicates the condition, and the second part describes the result or action that follows if that condition is met.

3. Usage Explanation

• Connection: It is used in both spoken and written language to express hypothetical situations or future actions that depend on certain conditions.

• Translation: It is generally translated as "if...," "when...," or "once...".

4. Example Sentences

1. 雨が降ったら、家にいます。
   If it rains, I will stay at home.

2. 宿題が終わったら、遊びに行きましょう。
   Once you finish your homework, let's go out and play.

3. 時間があったら、映画を見たい。
   If I have time, I want to watch a movie.

4. 彼が来たら、始めましょう。
   When he comes, let's start.

5. お金があったら、旅行に行きたい。
   If I had money, I would like to travel.

5. Alternative Grammar

• 〜ば: Another way to express conditional statements.
  • Example: 雨が降れば、家にいます。
    If it rains, I will stay at home.

6. Related Grammar

• 〜と: Used for general conditions that always apply.
  • Example: 夏になると、暑くなる。
    When summer comes, it gets hot.

7. Notes

• Context: The expression "〜たら" is versatile and can be used for both real and hypothetical situations, making it suitable for various contexts.

• Tone: This expression typically has a neutral tone and is widely used in everyday conversation.

8. Summary

"〜たら" is a conditional structure used in Japanese to express situations that will happen if a certain condition is met. It can refer to both real and hypothetical scenarios and is commonly found in both spoken and written language, allowing speakers to convey various conditions and outcomes.