「もう～」- Again, More

Explanation

In Japanese, もう is a common and versatile word that means "again" or "more." This usage typically indicates adding some quantity or degree to what already exists.

Grammar Pattern

Grammar Point	Connection	Explanation
もう	+ Quantity/Adverb	Indicates adding some quantity or degree to what already exists.

Basic Usage

The usage of もう to mean "again" or "more" is very common. It is often used when asking someone to wait a little longer or requesting an additional amount of something.

Examples

• もう少しすこし待った方がいいでしょう。
• Mou sukoshi matta hou ga ii deshou.
• It would be better to wait a little longer.
  

• もう一度いちど説明してください。
• Mou ichido setsumei shite kudasai.
• Please explain it once more.
  

Advanced Usage

As your Japanese proficiency improves, もう can be paired not only with simple quantity words but also with adverbs or verb forms to express more complex meanings.

Examples

• もう一度いちど挑戦してみます。
• Mou ichido chousen shite mimasu.
• I will try challenging it once more.
  

• もう少しすこしだけ頑張ってください。
• Mou sukoshi dake ganbatte kudasai.
• Please try a little harder.
  

Deep Dive

The usage of もう is very broad and can be flexibly applied in different contexts. It can also be used to indicate the continuation of time or an increase in quantity, often in situations where you ask someone to wait or do something again. Understanding the specific meaning of もう in a sentence usually requires considering the context.

Examples

• もう少しすこし時間がかかります。
• Mou sukoshi jikan ga kakarimasu.
• It will take a little more time.
  

• もう一度いちど確認してください。
• Mou ichido kakunin shite kudasai.
• Please check it once more.
  

Real-Life Scenarios

In everyday conversations, もう is often used in requests, reminders, or emphasis. For example:

• When ordering at a restaurant, you can say:
  • もう一品いっぱん追加できますか？
  • Mou ippin tsuika dekimasu ka?
  • Can I add one more dish?
    
• When studying, you can say:
  • もう少しすこし頑張ってみてください。
  • Mou sukoshi ganbatte mite kudasai.
  • Please try a little harder.
    

Summary

The use of もう is very frequent in everyday conversations, mainly to express adding some quantity or degree. It can be paired with quantity words, adverbs, or verb forms, making it a flexible word. Understanding the meaning and usage of もう helps improve the accuracy and richness of Japanese expression.