〜的
-ic / -like (adjectivizer)
Use this pattern to shape a complete, natural Japanese thought.
Remember it
Connect the meaning to its sound: say “〜的” aloud once.
Understand
Build the pattern
Sentence formula
How it works
「〜的」 means "-ic / -like (adjectivizer)". Structure: Noun + 的. This is a JLPT N3 pattern — the examples below slot different everyday and workplace words into the same structure so you can see how it behaves. Learn the structure, then swap in your own words.
When to use it
Read the example aloud, then replace one detail with something from your own life.
Tone: Neutral
A general pattern; let the sentence ending and situation set the politeness level.
Use
Hear it in real life
Everyday life
Example 1具体的な成功を教えてください。
ぐたいてきな せいこう を おしえて ください。
gutaitekina seikou o oshiete kudasai.
Please give me a concrete success.
Everyday life
Example 2具体的な安心を教えてください。
ぐたいてきな あんしん を おしえて ください。
gutaitekina anshin o oshiete kudasai.
Please give me a concrete relief.
Everyday life
Example 3具体的な原因を教えてください。
ぐたいてきな げんいん を おしえて ください。
gutaitekina gen'in o oshiete kudasai.
Please give me a concrete cause.
Everyday life
Example 4具体的な能力を教えてください。
ぐたいてきな のうりょく を おしえて ください。
gutaitekina nouryoku o oshiete kudasai.
Please give me a concrete ability.
Everyday life
Example 5具体的な態度を教えてください。
ぐたいてきな たいど を おしえて ください。
gutaitekina taido o oshiete kudasai.
Please give me a concrete attitude.
Make it yours
Choose one example. Replace one person, place, object, or time with a detail from your life, then say the new sentence aloud.
Recall
Test your memory
Recall practice
Can you say it?
1 of 5
Read the situation, look away from the answer, and say the Japanese aloud.
Your situation
Please give me a concrete success.
The answer is hidden. Try to use 〜的.
Remember tomorrow
Save this pattern as a flashcard
Review the meaning and formula later so today’s lesson moves into long-term memory.