〜ようだ

It seems that...; it appears that...

1. Overview

The expression "〜ようだ" is used in Japanese to indicate that something appears to be a certain way based on evidence, observation, or intuition. It suggests a degree of uncertainty and is often used to convey impressions rather than facts.

2. Structure

• Grammar Structure:

  • Verb (dictionary form) + ようだ
  • い-Adjective (dictionary form) + ようだ
  • な-Adjective (dictionary form) + ようだ
  • Noun + のようだ

• Explanation: This structure conveys a sense of speculation or inference about a situation, often based on visual or contextual clues.

3. Usage Explanation

• Connection: "ようだ" can connect verbs, adjectives, and nouns to express assumptions or observations.

• Translation: Generally translated as "It seems that..." or "It appears that..."

4. Example Sentences

1. 彼は忙しいようだ。
   It seems that he is busy.

2. 天気が悪いようだ。
   It appears that the weather is bad.

3. 彼女は喜んでいるようだ。
   It seems that she is happy.

4. この料理は美味しいようだ。
   It appears that this dish is delicious.

5. 彼はまだ来ていないようだ。
   It seems that he hasn't arrived yet.

5. Alternative Grammar

• 〜そうだ: Similar to "ようだ," but often used for hearsay or information received from others.
  • Example: 彼は元気そうだ。
    He seems to be doing well.

6. Related Grammar

• 〜らしい: Indicates that something is true based on what has been heard or seen.
  • Example: 彼は優秀な学生らしい。
    It seems that he is an excellent student.

7. Notes

• Context: "ようだ" is used to express a personal impression and is suitable for both spoken and written language.

• Tone: The expression carries a tentative tone, indicating that the speaker is not entirely certain of the observation or inference.

8. Summary

The "〜ようだ" structure is commonly used to express assumptions or observations based on evidence or intuition. It helps convey the speaker's impressions and is widely used in everyday conversations and writing.