こと – Usage for Caution and Instruction
In Japanese, こと is used to give instructions, rules, or cautionary advice in a neutral, impersonal manner. This structure is commonly found in written instructions, guidelines, warnings, or notices. It translates roughly to "must" or "must not" in English, often with a tone of general advice or rule rather than a direct command. こと is frequently used in formal or instructional contexts, as it provides instructions in a polite and objective way.
How to Use こと for Giving Caution or Instruction
To give instructions using こと, place こと after a verb in its dictionary form or negative form. This usage functions as a rule or guideline, making it appropriate for settings where strict or formal advice needs to be conveyed.
1. Verb + こと – "Do"
When giving an instruction or recommendation for what should be done, use the dictionary form of the verb before こと.
- Verb (dictionary form) + こと
2. Verb (ない form) + こと – "Do Not"
When giving a caution or prohibition (what must not be done), use the ない form of the verb before こと.
Common Examples
1. Instructions: Verb + こと (Do)
These expressions state actions that should be taken or are recommended according to rules or guidelines.
- 宿題は提出すること
しゅくだいはていしゅつすること
"Submit your homework." - レポートは月曜日までに提出すること
レポートはげつようびまでにていしゅつすること
"Submit the report by Monday." - ここで靴を脱ぐこと
ここでくつをぬぐこと
"Take off your shoes here." - 使用後は道具を元の場所に戻すこと
しようごはどうぐをもとのばしょにもどすこと
"Return tools to their original place after use."
2. Cautions: Verb (ない form) + こと (Do Not)
These expressions give cautionary instructions or prohibitions, indicating what must not be done.
- 食べ物を持ち込まないこと
たべものをもちこまないこと
"Do not bring food inside." - 図書館では静かにすること
としょかんではしずかにすること
"Be quiet in the library." - ここでタバコを吸わないこと
ここでタバコをすわないこと
"Do not smoke here." - 携帯電話を使用しないこと
けいたいでんわをしようしないこと
"Do not use mobile phones."
When to Use こと
- Formal Instructions: こと is often used in manuals, signs, school guidelines, or workplace rules to set out required actions or restrictions in a polite, impersonal tone.
- Rules and Guidelines: This form is perfect for setting behavioral expectations in places like libraries, museums, schools, or offices.
- Impersonal Tone: Using こと makes the instruction sound less direct and more neutral, which is especially useful in writing or formal contexts, where direct commands could feel too strong or confrontational.
Key Points to Remember
- Verb + こと: Used to instruct on what must be done (e.g., guidelines or requirements).
- Verb (ない form) + こと: Used to indicate what must not be done, expressing prohibition or caution.
- Neutral and Impersonal: Ideal for formal settings, as it provides a softer and more objective way of conveying rules.
Summary Examples
- 時間を守ること
じかんをまもること
"Be on time." - 食べ物を持ち込まないこと
たべものをもちこまないこと
"Do not bring in food." - 大声で話さないこと
おおごえではなさないこと
"Do not speak loudly." - 掃除後は道具を片付けること
そうじごはどうぐをかたづけること
"Put away the tools after cleaning."
The こと structure provides a formal and neutral way of expressing what actions should or should not be taken, making it a staple in written instructions and guidelines in Japanese.
