「言う」- The Basic Verb for Speaking

Explanation

Grammar: 言う(いう)
The verb 言う is a common and important word in Japanese, with the basic meaning of "to say." This article will provide a detailed analysis of the various uses of 言う, including its basic usage and honorific forms.

Grammar Pattern

Grammar Point	Connection	Explanation
言う	Subject + が + 言う	Means "to say" or "to speak," used to indicate direct speech or convey information.

Basic Usage

• Subject + が + 言う

Examples

• 彼かれが何なにか言いった。
• Kare ga nani ka itta.
• He said something just now.
  

• 先生せんせいが次つぎの授業じゅぎょうについて言いった。
• Sensei ga tsugi no jugyou ni tsuite itta.
• The teacher talked about the next class.
  

Honorific Form

In formal situations or when speaking to superiors, elders, etc., the honorific form of 言う is おっしゃる. Its ます form is おっしゃいます.

Examples

• 部長ぶちょうがおおっしゃったことを忘わすれないでください。
• Buchou ga osshatta koto o wasurenaide kudasai.
• Please don't forget what the manager said.
  

• 先生せんせいがおおっしゃいますとおりです。
• Sensei ga osshaimasu toori desu.
• It is just as the teacher said.
  

Summary

The verb 言う has a wide range of applications in Japanese, including basic expressions and honorific forms. Understanding these uses will help you use this verb more flexibly in real-life communication.