〜をはじめ

Starting with...; Including...; For example...

1. Overview

「〜をはじめ」 is a grammatical structure used to indicate that a particular item or person is the starting point or example among others in a larger category. It emphasizes that what follows includes the mentioned example and possibly others.

2. Structure

• Noun + をはじめ
  This structure is used to highlight the first or most prominent example in a list, suggesting that there are others that follow.

3. Usage Explanation

1. Indicating Examples
   「〜をはじめ」 is used to introduce examples in a way that shows the importance or prominence of the first mentioned item. It implies that what follows includes similar items or a range of items within a broader context.

2. Meaning
   It can be translated as "starting with," "including," or "for example" in English.

4. Example Sentences

1. 彼は日本の伝統文化をはじめ、多くの文化に興味を持っている。
   He is interested in many cultures, starting with traditional Japanese culture.

2. この町には、観光名所をはじめ、素晴らしいレストランがたくさんある。
   This town has many wonderful restaurants, including tourist attractions.

3. 友人をはじめ、家族も私を支えてくれた。
   Starting with my friends, my family has also supported me.

4. 科学者をはじめ、多くの専門家がこの問題に関心を寄せている。
   Many experts, including scientists, are interested in this issue.

5. Key Points to Note

1. Order of Mention: The item mentioned before「をはじめ」 is often the most significant or relevant, but it does not exclude other items.
2. Formality: This structure is commonly used in both spoken and written Japanese, suitable for various contexts.

6. Similar Grammar

• 〜を始めとする: This structure is similar in meaning and often interchangeable with「〜をはじめ」.
  Example: 「アジアを始めとする多くの国が参加した。」
  Many countries, starting with those in Asia, participated.

• 〜のほかにも: This phrase indicates that there are additional examples or items beyond the ones mentioned.
  Example: 「彼は日本以外の国にも旅行したのほかにも、仕事で出張している。」
  He has traveled to countries other than Japan and has also been on business trips.

7. Alternative Grammar

• 〜を例にとると: This structure explicitly states that an example is being given.
  Example: 「この問題を解決するためには、環境問題を例にとると良い。」
  To solve this problem, it is good to take environmental issues as an example.

• 〜の中で: This phrase can also indicate examples within a group, but is less focused on the significance of the first mentioned item.
  Example: 「多くの学生の中で、彼が最も優秀だった。」
  Among many students, he was the most outstanding.

8. Summary

「〜をはじめ」 is used to indicate that a specific item or person is the starting point or example among others in a larger category. It emphasizes inclusion and highlights the first mentioned item as significant.