JLPT N4 Elementary
なんです
Explanatory marker for providing reasons, context, or seeking clarification.
Readings
Other forms
1 Auxiliary, Sentence-ending particle
Explaining a Reason or Situation
Adds an explanatory tone to a statement to connect it with the current context or provide a reason.
Example
A どうして 昨日 来なかった ん です か ？
B ちょっと 用事 が あった ん です 。
[A:] Why didn't you come yesterday? [B:] It's because I had something to take care of.
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2 Auxiliary, Sentence-ending particle (in a question)
Asking for an Explanation
Signals curiosity about the reason or background behind an observation the speaker has made.
Usage notes & examples
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3 Auxiliary, Sentence-ending particle (often with が/けど)
Softening a Request or Introduction
Establishes context for a request or apology to soften the impact of what follows.
Usage notes & examples
available in the
mobile app