〜方
how to ~
Use this pattern to shape a complete, natural Japanese thought.
Remember it
Connect the meaning to its sound: say “〜方” aloud once.
Understand
Build the pattern
Sentence formula
How it works
「〜方」 means "how to ~". Structure: Verb stem + 方. This is a JLPT N4 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故障の使い方を教えてください。
こしょう の つかいかた を おしえて ください。
koshou no tsukaikata o oshiete kudasai.
Please teach me how to use the breakdown.
Everyday life
Example 2お釣りの使い方を教えてください。
おつり の つかいかた を おしえて ください。
otsuri no tsukaikata o oshiete kudasai.
Please teach me how to use the change (money).
Everyday life
Example 3畳の使い方を教えてください。
たたみ の つかいかた を おしえて ください。
tatami no tsukaikata o oshiete kudasai.
Please teach me how to use the tatami mat.
Everyday life
Example 4紙の使い方を教えてください。
かみ の つかいかた を おしえて ください。
kami no tsukaikata o oshiete kudasai.
Please teach me how to use the paper.
Everyday life
Example 5草の使い方を教えてください。
くさ の つかいかた を おしえて ください。
kusa no tsukaikata o oshiete kudasai.
Please teach me how to use the grass.
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 teach me how to use the breakdown.
The answer is hidden. Try to use 〜方.
Remember tomorrow
Save this pattern as a flashcard
Review the meaning and formula later so today’s lesson moves into long-term memory.