「いる」- Existence of Living Beings

Explanation

The verb 「いる」 in Japanese is used to indicate the existence of living beings, specifically referring to people or animals. It is pronounced as 「いる」. It is commonly used to describe the presence of a person or animal in a specific location or state, and it differs from 「ある」, which is used for inanimate objects.

Grammar Pattern

Grammar Point	Connection	Explanation
Subject (living being) + は + Location + に + いる	Used to describe the presence of a person or animal in a specific location.

Basic Usage

The basic form of 「いる」 is simple, directly connecting the subject with the location, time, or state of existence.

• 彼かれは部屋へやにいる。
• Kare wa heya ni iru.
• He is in the room.
  

Comparison and Differences

Difference Between 「いる」 and 「ある」

Both 「いる」 and 「ある」 indicate existence, but they are used differently. 「いる」 is used for living beings, such as people or animals, while 「ある」 is used for inanimate objects or events.

Pattern	Example	English Translation
いる	犬いぬは庭にわにいる。	Inu wa niwa ni iru.	The dog is in the yard.
ある	机つくえの上うえに本ほんがある。	Tsukue no ue ni hon ga aru.	There is a book on the table.

Examples and Real-Life Scenarios

Here are some common conversations and scenarios to help understand the usage of 「いる」:

• Ａ：田中たなかさんはどこにいる？
• A: Tanaka-san wa doko ni iru?
• A: Where is Mr. Tanaka?
  

• Ｂ：彼かれは教室きょうしつにいる。
• B: Kare wa kyoushitsu ni iru.
• B: He is in the classroom.
  

Summary

The verb 「いる」 in Japanese is used to indicate the existence of living beings. Understanding its basic usage and the difference between 「いる」 and 「ある」 helps in accurately expressing states of existence. With this knowledge, you can use this grammar point more fluently in everyday conversations and writing.