동사의 부정 정중형 ‘~ないです’의 기능

Abstract

This study has examined ‘-naides’ form of Japanese verbs which is frequently used, even though it is non-normative expression. Description through ‘-naides’ form of verbs conveys negative proposition, briefly speaking, it performs the function of conveying fact. Unlike ‘-masen’ form, ‘-naides’ form of verbs cannot express volition, because it performs only the function of conveying fact, and accordingly, it is mainly used for description, rather than expressing volition or invitation. ‘-Naides’ form of verbs, which conveys negative proposition simply as fact, gives feelings of kindness, mildness, and familiarity, when compared to ‘-masen’ form, which is the expression of emphatic negation. This is why ‘-naides’ form of verbs is frequently used in daily life. Though ‘naides’ form of verbs is frequently used in daily life, how to teach it is a matter of contemplation. However, when taken into consideration the fact that, in daily life, there are many Japanese who think that ‘-masen’ form is somewhat stiff, it is believed that there is a need to refer to ‘-naides’ form at least in teaching conversation. It is also necessary to teach the learners who are already using it the fact that the acceptable level of ‘-naides’ form of verbs is low, in case there is a need to use literary style or to be formal, and that ‘-naides’ form of verbs cannot be used when expressing volition or invitation.