〜せいで
because of ~ (negative)
Connect what happened to the reason behind it.
Remember it
Reason first, result next: connect them with 〜せいで.
Understand
Build the pattern
Sentence formula
How it works
「〜せいで」 means "because of ~ (negative)". Structure: Noun の + せいで. 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
Use it to explain decisions, delays, feelings, and everyday choices.
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成功のせいで、遅刻しました。
せいこう の せい で、ちこく しました。
seikou no sei de, chikoku shimashita.
Because of the success, I was late.
Everyday life
Example 2安心のせいで、遅刻しました。
あんしん の せい で、ちこく しました。
anshin no sei de, chikoku shimashita.
Because of the relief, I was late.
Everyday life
Example 3原因のせいで、遅刻しました。
げんいん の せい で、ちこく しました。
gen'in no sei de, chikoku shimashita.
Because of the cause, I was late.
Everyday life
Example 4能力のせいで、遅刻しました。
のうりょく の せい で、ちこく しました。
nouryoku no sei de, chikoku shimashita.
Because of the ability, I was late.
Everyday life
Example 5態度のせいで、遅刻しました。
たいど の せい で、ちこく しました。
taido no sei de, chikoku shimashita.
Because of the attitude, I was late.
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
Because of the success, I was late.
The answer is hidden. Try to use 〜せいで.
Remember tomorrow
Save this pattern as a flashcard
Review the meaning and formula later so today’s lesson moves into long-term memory.