〜で (means)
by means of
Use this pattern to shape a complete, natural Japanese thought.
Remember it
Connect the meaning to its sound: say “〜で (means)” aloud once.
Understand
Build the pattern
Sentence formula
How it works
「〜で (means)」 means "by means of". Structure: Noun + で. This is a JLPT N5 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水で行きます。
みずでいきます。
mizudeikimasu.
I go by water.
Everyday life
Example 2かばんで行きます。
かばんでいきます。
kabandeikimasu.
I go by bag.
Everyday life
Example 3時計で行きます。
とけいでいきます。
tokeideikimasu.
I go by clock.
Everyday life
Example 4ご飯で行きます。
ごはんでいきます。
gohandeikimasu.
I go by rice.
Everyday life
Example 5野菜で行きます。
やさいでいきます。
yasaideikimasu.
I go by vegetables.
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
I go by water.
The answer is hidden. Try to use 〜で (means).
Remember tomorrow
Save this pattern as a flashcard
Review the meaning and formula later so today’s lesson moves into long-term memory.