Passive Form: Irregular Verbs
Overview
This page explains Passive Form: Irregular Verbs for Japanese learners in a practical, high-clarity format. The key target is Passive Form: how it behaves in real sentences, what meaning it adds, and how to use it naturally in both speaking and writing. The objective is not only to memorize a rule, but to build automatic and accurate usage in context.
How This Grammar Works
Use three checks whenever you apply Passive Form: structure, function, and register. Structure tells you where the pattern attaches. Function tells you what meaning or nuance it contributes (time, contrast, cause, condition, emphasis, intention, etc.). Register tells you whether the line sounds conversational, neutral, or formal. Most learner mistakes happen when one of these checks is ignored.
Natural output also depends on rhythm. Short, balanced clauses usually sound better than literal word-for-word translation. Start with compact frames, then expand sentence length while preserving agreement and tone consistency.
Formation Pattern
- 1Core clause +
Passive Form+ continuation - 2Question and negative variants of the same frame
- 3Contrast/condition extension for multi-clause sentences
When To Use It
- Use it in daily conversation for clear and natural expression.
- Use it in writing when you need cohesive sentence flow.
- Use it in exam tasks to demonstrate grammar control and nuance.
- Use it when switching intentionally between neutral, polite, and formal style.
- Use it first with high-frequency vocabulary, then expand to abstract contexts.
When Not To Use It
- Do not overuse one pattern repeatedly across consecutive sentences.
- Do not mix incompatible registers inside one short statement.
- Do not rely on direct translation if target-language order differs.
- Do not force this pattern where a simpler form is more natural.
Common Mistakes
- 1Correct marker inside an incorrect sentence frame.
- 2Grammatically possible but collocationally unnatural combinations.
- 3Losing agreement/consistency in longer clauses.
- 4Applying one memorized translation to every context.
Contrast With Similar Patterns
Passive Form can overlap with nearby structures, but pragmatic tone often differs: directness, softness, certainty, or formality. Compare minimal pairs in real context rather than relying only on dictionary glosses. Context-first comparison is the fastest route to natural usage.
Quick FAQ
Q. Is this pattern formal or casual?
A. It can work in multiple registers; surrounding forms determine final tone.
Q. What is the fastest way to improve?
A. Recycle short sentence frames with controlled variation and daily repetition.
Q. Why does my sentence still sound unnatural?
A. Usually due to collocation choice, clause rhythm, or register mismatch.
Examples
8Core line with Passive Form
Focus: Passive Form
I was asked a question by the teacher.
Start with a short clear frame.
Question line with Passive Form
Focus: Passive Form
He was hired by the company.
Check question order and intonation.
Formal register
Focus: Passive Form
The plan was explained in the meeting.
Use vocabulary that fits formal context.
Casual register
Focus: Passive Form
I was invited to a party by a friend.
Keep wording concise and natural.
Contrast use
Focus: Passive Form
A new member was brought/caused to come from Tokyo.
Use this to connect opposing ideas.
Condition/time use
Focus: Passive Form
She was introduced by the department head.
Practice trigger-result relationships.
Negative form
Focus: Passive Form
I was examined by a doctor.
Control negation scope carefully.
Natural dialogue
Focus: Passive Form
This proposal has not been approved yet.
Prioritize frequent collocations.
Related Grammar Rules
Indirect Passive (迷惑の受身)
Overview This page explains **Indirect Passive (迷惑の受身)** for Japanese learners in a practical, high-clarity format....
Direct Passive (直接受身)
Overview This page explains **Direct Passive (直接受身)** for Japanese learners in a practical, high-clarity format. The...
Mastering the Japanese Passive Form: U-Verbs (Ukemi-kei)
Overview This page explains **Mastering the Japanese Passive Form: U-Verbs (Ukemi-kei)** for Japanese learners in a prac...
Passive form: ru-verbs (~られる)
Overview This page explains **Passive form: ru-verbs (~られる)** for Japanese learners in a practical, high-clarity for...
Passive with に marking agent
Overview This page explains **Passive with に marking agent** for Japanese learners in a practical, high-clarity format....
Comments (0)
Login to CommentStart learning languages for free
Start Learning Free