他動詞・自動詞

Done through action vs. occurring on its own

JLPT N4
Pattern

Transitive を + Verb / Intransitive が + Verb

How it works

Many verbs come in pairs. A transitive verb takes an object with を and someone does it (ドアをあける, I open the door). An intransitive verb takes が and just happens (ドアがあく, the door opens).

Examples

  • まどを しめました。I closed the window.
  • まどが しまりました。The window closed.

Related grammar

Further reading

Bunpro N4 · Lesson 1

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