E05 · At home: verb pairs

Before you start

This level assumes the beginner level and basic grammar. Words you already met are marked and do not count as new.

This lesson assumes what you saw in the earlier ones. If something feels shaky, go back to it:

• E01saying how you feel
• E02going to the doctor and appointments
• E03booking and changing plans
• E04talking about where you live

What you learn

Many verbs come in pairs: one says what happens (ドアが あく, the door opens) and the other what someone does (ドアを あける, I open the door). The first takes が; the second, を.

You practise them in kana; underneath you can see how they are usually written.

• あくakuopen (by itself)Usually written 開くThere is also あく = 空く (become free). Here you learn 開く, to open (ドアが あく).
• あけるakeruopen (something)Usually written 開ける
• しまるshimaruclose (by itself)Usually written 閉まる
• しめるshimeruclose (something)Usually written 閉めるThere is also しめる = 締める (tighten, fasten). Here you learn 閉める, to close a door or window.
• つくtsukucome on (light)Usually written 点くThere is also つく = 着く (arrive). Here you learn 点く, for a light or device coming on.
• つけるtsukeruturn onUsually written 点けるThere is also つける = 付ける (attach). Here you learn 点ける, to turn on a light or device.
• きえるkierugo out (light)Usually written 消える
• けすkesuturn offUsually written 消す
• でんきdenkilight, electricityUsually written 電気
• You know it · K08ドアdoadoor
• You know it · H11まどmadowindowUsually written 窓
• You know it · K07エアコンeakonair conditioner

Practice

A short text written only with the kana and grammar you already know. Read it and answer.