GRAMMAR DETAIL
のは
Turns the preceding clause into a noun-like unit and presents it as the topic for a following explanation or evaluation.
Examples
新しい言葉を覚えるのは楽しい。
Learning new words is fun.
Words used
友達と話すのは気分転換になる。
Talking with friends is a good change of pace.
Words used
Study notes
1. Origins, structure, and basic meaning
- Structure:
のnominalizes a clause, andはpresents it as a topic. - Basic usage:
新しい言葉を覚えるのは楽しい。makes learning new words the topic and evaluates it as enjoyable.
2. Common pitfalls and similar expressions
- The whole clause as topic
友達と話すのは楽しいevaluates talking with friends, not the friends themselves.のgroups the preceding activity into one unit.
- Topic and contrast
- Two activities can be contrasted, as in
読むのは好きだが、書くのは苦手だ.はdoes not always imply contrast, but here it identifies the compared topics.
- Two activities can be contrasted, as in