Japanese grammar is an essential part of learning the Japanese language.

It is the set of rules that govern the way words are combined to form sentences in the Japanese language. Japanese grammar is known for its complex system of particles, which are small words that are added to the end of nouns or verbs to indicate the grammatical function of the word in the sentence. In this post, 

We will talk about JLPT N4 Grammar: ところ (tokoro)

JLPT N4 Grammar: ところ (tokoro)

(1) Denotes the time immediately before the action begins. As of now.

(2) The act of acting at the moment.

(3) Indicates that an action is complete immediately after completion. 

Form: 

 V（辞書形）+ところだ。

 V（て形）いる + ところだ。

 V（た形）+ ところだ。

For example:

(1) Denotes the time immediately before the action begins. As of now.

1. 今から、電車に乗るところです。

I’m about to get on the train now.

2. これから飛行機に乗るところなので、着いたら連絡します。

I’m about to board the plane, so I’ll let you know when I get there.

3. 今から、ご飯を食べるところです。

I’m about to eat.

4. 今から、会社を出るところだよ。

I’m about to leave the company.

(2) The act of acting at the moment.

1. 今、電車に乗っているところだから、後で電話するね。

I’m on the train right now, so I’ll call you later.

2. 今、宿題をしているところだから、後で遊ぼう。

I’m doing my homework right now, so let’s play later.

3. 今、エラーの原因を調べているところなので、もう少し待ってください。

We are currently investigating the cause of the error, so please wait a little longer.

(3) Indicates that an action is complete immediately after completion.

1. 今、電車を降りたところなので、あと１０分ぐらいで着きます。

I just got off the train, so I’ll be there in about 10 minutes.

2. ちょうど今、宿題が終わったところなので、一緒に遊べますよ。

I just finished my homework, so we can play together.

3. ちょうど今、ご飯を食べ終わったところで、お腹いっぱいなので動けません。

I just finished eating and I can’t move because I’m full.