Introduction
Learning Japanese involves mastering various verb forms that can be tricky to differentiate. Two important forms you will encounter are “-てある (tearu)” and “-ておく (teoku).” Both imply that an action has been done for a purpose, but they are used differently. Let’s explore how to use “-tearu” and “-teoku” correctly.
-てある (tearu)
“-てある (tearu)” is used to describe the state resulting from an action that someone (unspecified) has done for a purpose. It often implies that the action was done intentionally by someone.
Example of “-てある (tearu)”:
窓が開けてあります。 (Mado ga akete arimasu.) – The window is open (someone opened it).
In this example, “tearu” indicates that someone intentionally opened the window for a reason.
-ておく (teoku)
“-ておく (teoku)” is used to indicate that an action is performed in preparation for something, or to maintain a state until a certain time. The person who did the action is usually specified or understood.
Example of “-ておく (teoku)”:
店を開けておきます。 (Mise o akete okimasu.) – I will open the store (in preparation).
試験勉強をしておきます。 (Shiken benkyou o shite okimasu.) – I will study for the exam (in advance).
In these examples, “teoku” shows that the actions are done in preparation for something in the future.
Note
The key differences are:
- –てある (tearu): The person who did the action is not specified, and there is no time limit for how long the state will last.
- –ておく (teoku): The person who did the action is clear, and the action is done with a time limit or in preparation for something.
Conclusion
Understanding when to use “-てある (tearu)” and “-ておく (teoku)” is important for proper communication in Japanese. Remember, “-てある (tearu)” is used when the person who performed the action is unknown and there is no time limit. On the other hand, “-ておく (teoku)” is used when the person who performed the action is known and there is a specific time limit or purpose.
