GRAMMAR DETAIL
なり〜なり
Offers concrete alternatives and urges the listener to choose at least one possible course of action.
Examples
電話するなり窓口へ行くなりして確認してください。
Please confirm it by either calling or going to the service counter.
Words used
手紙を書くなり電話するなりして知らせてください。
Please let me know by either writing a letter or making a phone call.
Words used
困ったら先生に聞くなり友達に相談するなりしてください。
If you run into trouble, please either ask the teacher or consult a friend.
Words used
Study notes
1. Origins, structure, and basic meaning
- Structure: Repeat
なりafter dictionary-form verbs to offer concrete possible methods and urge someone to choose a course of action. - Basic usage:
電話するなり窓口へ行くなりして確認してください。asks for confirmation by a method such as calling or visiting the service counter.
2. Common pitfalls and similar expressions
- Options rather than an actual sequence
電話するなり窓口へ行くなりoffers methods rather than ordering a call followed by a visit. It does not impose an exclusive requirement to use exactly one listed method.