〜なり

As soon as; immediately after; or like

1. Overview

「〜なり」 is a Japanese expression used to indicate that one action occurs immediately after another. It can also be used to show similarity or resemblance.

2. Structure

• Grammar Structure:

  • Verb (dictionary form) + なり
  • Noun + なり

• Explanation:

  • 「なり」 connects two actions, emphasizing the immediacy of the second action following the first.

3. Usage Explanation

• Conjunction: This structure is mainly used with verbs in their dictionary form or nouns, indicating that one action directly follows another without delay.

• Usage: 「なり」 is commonly used in both spoken and written language to emphasize the sequence of actions.

• Translation: Generally translated as "as soon as," "immediately after," or "like."

4. Alternative Expressions

• 〜てすぐに: Another expression meaning "immediately after," which has a similar nuance.

5. Similar Expressions

• 〜次第: Indicates that one event depends on another, showing a cause-and-effect relationship.
• 〜した途端: Indicates that one action occurs right at the moment another action happens.

6. Notes

• Context: 「なり」 is typically used in narratives or storytelling to show sequences of events.

• Tone: The expression is neutral and can be used in both formal and informal settings.

7. Example Sentences

1. ドアを開けるなり、彼が入ってきた。
   As soon as I opened the door, he came in.

2. 電話をかけるなり、彼女はすぐに出かけた。
   Immediately after making the phone call, she went out.

3. 家に着くなり、疲れて寝てしまった。
   As soon as I got home, I was so tired that I fell asleep.

4. 話し始めるなり、彼は重要なことを言った。
   As soon as he started talking, he said something important.

5. 雨が降り出すなり、みんな急いで帰った。
   As soon as it started to rain, everyone hurried home.

8. Summary

「〜なり」 is a useful expression to show the immediacy of one action following another. Mastering this usage will help you describe sequences of events more effectively in Japanese.