〜たことにする

Pretend to have…; Consider as if…

1. Overview

「〜たことにする」is used to express the act of pretending or considering something as true or real, even if it may not be. This structure often conveys a sense of acceptance or resignation regarding a situation.

2. Structure

1. Verb (た-form) + ことにする
   Used to indicate that one decides to consider or pretend that a certain action has taken place.

2. Noun + だことにする
   Used to express the decision to regard a certain state or situation as true.

3. Usage Explanation

• Indicating Pretend or Acceptance:
  This expression emphasizes a conscious decision to accept or act as if something is true, even if it isn't.

• Expressing Resignation:
  It can convey a sense of resignation or adaptation to circumstances that are not ideal.

• English Translation:
  It can be translated as “pretend to have…” or “consider as if…”

4. Example Sentences

1. 彼女は約束を守らなかったが、私はそれを忘れたことにする。
   She didn't keep her promise, but I will pretend I forgot about it.

2. お金が足りないので、今回は行けないことにする。
   Since I don't have enough money, I will consider it as if I can't go this time.

3. 彼が怒っていることにするのはやめよう。
   Let's stop pretending that he is angry.

4. 失敗したことにすることで、気持ちを楽にした。
   By pretending that I failed, I relieved my feelings.

5. 彼女の言葉を無視したことにするつもりだ。
   I plan to pretend that I ignored her words.

5. Key Points to Note

• Conscious Decision:
  The expression implies a deliberate choice to act as if something is true or has occurred.

• Casual Usage:
  「〜たことにする」is often used in casual conversations to express thoughts or feelings about a situation.

6. Similar Grammar

• 〜ようにする: Indicates an effort to make something happen or to ensure that something is the case.
  • Example: 毎日運動するようにしている。
    I try to exercise every day.

7. Alternative Grammar

• 〜と思うことにする: Similar in meaning, but emphasizes a thought or belief rather than an action.
  • Example: それを忘れたと思うことにした。
    I decided to think that I forgot about it.

8. Summary

「〜たことにする」expresses the act of pretending or accepting a situation as true, emphasizing a conscious decision to adapt to circumstances. It is commonly used in casual contexts to convey thoughts and feelings about various situations.