〜つ〜つ

Alternating between...; Doing something repeatedly

1. Overview

「〜つ〜つ」is used to express two actions or states alternating or happening repeatedly. It conveys a sense of back-and-forth or alternating between two actions in a recurring or repeated manner.

2. Structure

• Verb (masu-stem) + つ + Verb (masu-stem) + つ

3. Usage Explanation

• Alternating Actions:
  This structure describes two actions or states happening alternately, often conveying simultaneous or sequential occurrence.

• Repetition:
  It can indicate repetition, where two actions or states happen in a back-and-forth manner.

• English Translation:
  It can be translated as "alternating between..." or "doing one thing and then the other repeatedly."

4. Example Sentences

1. 彼は行きつ戻りつして、なかなか決められない。
   He kept pacing back and forth, unable to decide.

2. 波が寄せつ返しつ、砂浜に打ち寄せている。
   The waves ebb and flow, washing up on the shore.

3. その男は部屋の中を、考え事をしながら行きつ戻りつしていた。
   That man paced back and forth in the room, lost in thought.

4. 彼女は書きつ消しつ、手紙の文面を整えていた。
   She kept writing and erasing, adjusting the contents of her letter.

5. 風が吹きつ止みつしている。
   The wind blows and then stops.

5. Key Points to Note

• Usage in Writing:
  This structure is often found in written or more formal expressions, and is less common in everyday conversation.

• Emphasis on Alternation:
  It highlights the back-and-forth or alternating nature of two actions, giving a rhythmic or continuous feel to the sentence.

6. Similar Grammar

• 〜ながら: Another structure that expresses two simultaneous actions.
  • Example: 音楽を聴きながら勉強する。
    Studying while listening to music.

7. Alternative Grammar

• 〜たり〜たり: Expresses the occurrence of multiple actions alternately.
  • Example: 雨が降ったり止んだりしている。
    The rain keeps starting and stopping.

8. Summary

「〜つ〜つ」is used to describe alternating or recurring actions, often seen in formal or literary contexts. It emphasizes dynamic alternation, adding a sense of rhythm or continuity.