GRAMMAR DETAIL
これ
Directly refers to an object near the speaker without a following noun.
Examples
これは私の辞書です。
This is my dictionary.
Words used
これを使ってもいいですか。
May I use this?
Words used
これは明日の会議で使う資料です。
These are materials we will use at tomorrow's meeting.
Words used
Study notes
1. Origins, structure, and basic meaning
- Structure:
これstands for an object's name and can take a particle directly. - Basic usage: It refers to something held by or close to the speaker.
これを使ってもいいですか。asks permission to use an object nearby.
2. Common pitfalls and similar expressions
- Topic and object
これは私の辞書ですpresents the object as a topic and explains what it is.これを使うmakes it the object being used, so the particle must suit the following verb.
- Number comes from context
これは資料ですcan point to one sheet or a collection of materials. The actual referent determines whether an English translation uses a singular or plural form.