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A2 adverb 8 मिनट पढ़ने का समय

だんだん

dandan
इसका अभ्यास करें उदाहरण नोट्स और सुझाव だんだん 30 सेकंड में
व्याख्या だんだん in your Level:
At the A1 level, students learn だんだん (dandan) as a simple way to describe changes in the world around them. It is one of the first adverbs of change introduced because it is easy to pronounce and understand. At this stage, it is almost exclusively used with very basic adjectives like 'hot' (atsui), 'cold' (samui), and 'dark' (kurai). The focus is on the basic sentence pattern: [Noun] ga [dandan] [Adjective-ku] naru. For example, 'Sora ga dandan kuraku naru' (The sky gradually becomes dark). A1 learners are encouraged to use it to describe the weather or their own basic feelings, helping them move beyond static 'is/is not' descriptions to describing a world in motion. It provides a simple tool for expressing time and progression without needing complex grammar.
पूरी व्याख्या पढ़ने के लिए मुफ़्त साइन अप करें
At the A2 level, learners begin to use だんだん (dandan) with a wider range of verbs and more complex sentence structures. This is where the connection with the ~te kuru and ~te iku forms becomes important. An A2 student might say 'Nihongo ga dandan wakatte kimashita' (I've gradually come to understand Japanese), which shows a more sophisticated understanding of how states change over time. They also start to recognize dandan in listening exercises, particularly in weather forecasts or simple stories. The expectation at this level is that the student can use the word to describe personal progress and environmental changes with correct particle usage and verb conjugation.
By the B1 level, students should be able to distinguish between だんだん (dandan) and its more formal counterparts like shidai ni or jojo ni. B1 learners use dandan to describe more abstract processes, such as social changes, shifting opinions, or evolving relationships. They are also expected to use it in combination with other grammar points, like 'node' (because) or 'noni' (although), to create more complex narratives. For example, 'Dandan samuku natte kita node, kooto o kimasu' (Since it has gradually become cold, I will wear a coat). At this stage, the student is not just describing a change, but explaining the context and consequences of that change using dandan as a connective thread.
पूरी व्याख्या पढ़ने के लिए मुफ़्त साइन अप करें
At the B2 level, だんだん (dandan) is used with a high degree of naturalness. B2 learners can use it to add nuance to their speech, such as using it to soften a transition or to emphasize the effort involved in a long process. They understand the rhythmic role it plays in a sentence and can use it to build tension or atmosphere in storytelling. A B2 student might use dandan in a debate to describe how a problem is progressively worsening or how a solution is slowly taking effect. They are also aware of regional variations (like the Shimane 'thank you') and can navigate the subtle differences in tone between dandan and masumasu in various contexts.
पूरी व्याख्या पढ़ने के लिए मुफ़्त साइन अप करें
For C1 learners, だんだん (dandan) is part of a sophisticated repertoire of adverbs. While they might use more formal terms in writing, they use dandan in speech to sound more authentic and relatable. They can analyze the use of dandan in literature, noting how an author might use it to mirror the psychological state of a character. A C1 learner can use the word to describe very subtle, non-linear changes, and they understand how to use it for rhetorical effect. They are also comfortable using the kanji version 段々 when appropriate in literary writing, although they know that kana is more common in modern text.
पूरी व्याख्या पढ़ने के लिए मुफ़्त साइन अप करें
At the C2 level, mastery of だんだん (dandan) is absolute. The speaker uses it with the same native intuition as a Japanese person, knowing exactly when its rhythmic quality will enhance a sentence and when a more clinical term like jojo ni is required. They can use dandan in complex philosophical or technical discussions to ground abstract concepts in the tangible imagery of 'steps.' A C2 learner can also appreciate and use the word in puns, wordplay, or specific poetic meters. Their usage is indistinguishable from a native speaker, reflecting a deep understanding of the word's history, its sound-symbolism, and its place in the broader landscape of Japanese adverbs.
पूरी व्याख्या पढ़ने के लिए मुफ़्त साइन अप करें
इसका अभ्यास करें उदाहरण नोट्स और सुझाव

だんだん 30 सेकंड में

  • Dandan means 'gradually' or 'bit by bit' in Japanese.
  • It is used to describe a change that happens in small, sequential steps.
  • Commonly paired with 'naru' (to become) and '~te kuru' (to come to be).
  • Suitable for both casual conversation and semi-formal writing.

The Japanese word だんだん (dandan) is an essential adverb used to describe a process that occurs step by step or progressively over time. Derived from the kanji 段 (dan), which refers to a step, a stair, or a level, the repetition of the sound emphasizes a continuous, rhythmic progression. In English, we most frequently translate this as 'gradually,' 'bit by bit,' or 'increasingly.' It is a versatile word that fits comfortably in both casual conversations and semi-formal writing, though it leans slightly toward a more colloquial feel compared to its more rigid synonyms. When you use dandan, you are drawing the listener's attention to the transition itself—the slow shift from one state to another rather than the final result.

Core Concept
The essence of dandan lies in the incremental nature of change. It is not used for sudden or instantaneous shifts. Instead, it visualizes a staircase where each step brings you closer to a new state of being or a different environment.
Visual Imagery
Think of a sunrise where the sky slowly shifts from deep indigo to soft pink, or a cup of tea that cools down second by second. These are the natural domains of dandan.
Emotional Nuance
It often carries a sense of observation or realization. When a speaker says dandan, they are often reflecting on a change they have noticed over a period, such as becoming more comfortable in a new city or a child growing up.

日本語がだんだん上手になってきました。

— "My Japanese has gradually become better."

空がだんだん暗くなってきました。

— "The sky has gradually become dark."

だんだん寒くなってきましたね。

— "It's gradually getting colder, isn't it?"

仕事にだんだん慣れてきました。

— "I've gradually gotten used to the job."

春が来て、花がだんだん咲き始めました。

— "Spring came, and the flowers gradually began to bloom."

Whether you are talking about the changing seasons, your progress in learning a new skill, or your feelings for someone growing stronger, dandan provides the perfect linguistic bridge to describe that journey. It is a word of patience and observation, inviting the listener to see the transition as a sequence of small, manageable steps rather than a jarring leap.

Using だんだん (dandan) correctly requires understanding its grammatical placement and the types of verbs it naturally accompanies. As an adverb, it typically precedes the verb or the adjective-verb combination that describes the change. Because dandan signifies a progression, it is most frequently paired with the ~てくる (~te kuru) or ~ていく (~te iku) structures, which respectively indicate changes coming toward the present or continuing into the future.

Sentence Structure 1: Change in State
The most common pattern is [Subject] + [だんだん] + [Adjective/Noun] + [なる]. For example: Atsuku naru (becomes hot) becomes Dandan atsuku naru (gradually becomes hot).
Sentence Structure 2: Verbs of Motion/Change
When paired with verbs like 'to decrease' (heru) or 'to increase' (fueru), dandan highlights the slope of the change. Jinkou ga dandan hette iru (The population is gradually decreasing).

雨がだんだん強くなってきました。

— "The rain has gradually become stronger."

彼はだんだん元気になっていきました。

— "He gradually got better (healthier)."

この町の人口はだんだん減っています。

— "The population of this town is gradually decreasing."

そのニュースはだんだん広がっていきました。

— "That news gradually spread."

テストが近づいて、だんだん不安になってきました。

— "As the test approached, I gradually became anxious."

In conversational Japanese, dandan can also be used as a standalone response or as a way to soften a statement about change. It provides a sense of continuity that makes the speaker's observations feel more natural and grounded in reality. When using it, remember that the change should be perceptible but not abrupt. It is the linguistic equivalent of a time-lapse video.

You will encounter だんだん (dandan) in a wide variety of contexts, from daily weather reports to heartfelt conversations about personal growth. It is one of those 'Swiss Army knife' words that appears in almost every domain of Japanese life because change is a universal constant. Understanding the specific contexts where it thrives will help you use it more naturally.

Weather and Nature
This is perhaps the most common usage. Meteorologists use it to describe approaching storms or rising temperatures. People use it to talk about the leaves changing color in autumn or the days getting longer in spring.
Learning and Skills
Teachers and mentors often use dandan to encourage students. 'You're gradually getting it!' is a common sentiment in the classroom. It acknowledges the effort required for mastery.
Health and Physical States
Doctors might use it to describe a recovery process, or you might hear someone describe how they are gradually losing their appetite or feeling more tired as the day goes on.

午後からだんだん晴れてくるでしょう。

— "It will probably gradually clear up from the afternoon."

子供たちはだんだん大きくなりますね。

— "Children gradually grow up, don't they?"

新しい生活にだんだん慣れてきました。

— "I've gradually gotten used to my new life."

In popular media like anime and drama, dandan is frequently used in internal monologues to show a character's shifting feelings. For example, a character might realize they are 'dandan' falling in love or 'dandan' understanding a complex mystery. Its rhythmic quality makes it very effective for building atmosphere and showing the passage of time without needing long expository dialogue.

While だんだん (dandan) is a relatively straightforward word, English speakers often make mistakes by using it in contexts where the change is too sudden or by confusing it with other adverbs of degree. Because dandan implies a sequence of steps, using it for an 'all-at-once' event will sound unnatural to native speakers.

Mistake 1: Using with Sudden Changes
You cannot use dandan for something that happens instantly. For instance, 'The light gradually turned on' might be possible with a dimmer switch, but if you just flicked the switch, dandan is incorrect. Use 'kyuuni' (suddenly) instead.
Mistake 2: Confusing with 'Motto' (More)
Learners sometimes say dandan when they just mean 'more.' Dandan requires a process. If you want more rice, you say 'motto.' If the pile of rice is growing as someone pours it, that is dandan.
Mistake 3: Forgetting the 'Naru' or '~Te Kuru'
Because dandan implies change, it feels incomplete without a verb of change. Saying 'Dandan atsui desu' (It is gradually hot) is grammatically awkward. It should be 'Dandan atsuku natte kimashita' (It has gradually become hot).

❌ 彼はだんだん死にました。

— Incorrect: Death is usually treated as a point in time, not a gradual process in this specific phrasing.

❌ だんだん食べたいです。

— Incorrect: You don't 'gradually want to eat' in this way. You might 'gradually become hungry' (dandan onaka ga suite kita).

Another subtle mistake is using dandan in extremely formal business reports where 次第に (shidai ni) or 徐々に (jojo ni) would be more appropriate. While dandan is not 'slang,' it has a friendly, accessible quality that might feel slightly out of place in a high-level scientific paper or a formal legal document. Always consider your audience when choosing between these synonyms.

Japanese has several words that translate to 'gradually' or 'little by little.' Choosing the right one depends on the level of formality and the specific nuance you want to convey. だんだん (dandan) is the most versatile and common in daily life, but these alternatives are important for reaching higher levels of proficiency.

少しずつ (Sukoshizutsu)
Meaning 'little by little.' This focuses on the amount of change. It is very common and can often replace dandan. It sounds a bit more deliberate, as if someone is making a conscious effort to change in small increments.
次第に (Shidai ni)
Meaning 'gradually' or 'in sequence.' This is more formal than dandan. You will see this in news reports, academic writing, and formal speeches. It implies a logical progression or a natural sequence of events.
徐々に (Jojo ni)
Meaning 'slowly and steadily.' This is also formal and is often used in technical or medical contexts. It emphasizes the slowness and the steady nature of the change, often suggesting a lack of sudden jumps.
ますます (Masumasu)
Meaning 'more and more.' While similar, masumasu focuses on the acceleration or the increasing intensity rather than the step-by-step progression. Use this when something is already happening and is now intensifying.

景気は次第に回復しています。

— "The economy is gradually recovering." (Formal/News context)

薬の効果が徐々に現れてきました。

— "The effects of the medicine have slowly begun to appear." (Medical/Formal)

Choosing between these words allows you to fine-tune your Japanese. If you are talking to a friend about the weather, stick with dandan. If you are writing a university essay about social trends, shidai ni will make you sound much more professional. Mastering these distinctions is a key step in moving from intermediate to advanced Japanese proficiency.

How Formal Is It?

रोचक तथ्य

The repetition in 'dandan' is called 'tatamigo' in Japanese. This linguistic pattern is used to turn a noun into an adverb that describes a continuous action or state.

उच्चारण मार्गदर्शिका

UK /dæn.dæn/
US /dɑn.dɑn/
Japanese is a pitch-accent language. In standard Tokyo Japanese, 'dandan' has a 'Heiban' (flat) accent pattern, meaning the pitch stays relatively level.
तुकबंदी
Pan-pan (onomatopoeia for slapping) Kan-kan (onomatopoeia for clanging) Ran-ran (cheerful humming) San-san (brilliant sunlight) Gan-gan (pounding headache) Wan-wan (dog barking) Tan-tan (uninterested/level) Ban-ban (repeatedly/plentifully)
आम गलतियाँ
  • Pronouncing it like 'dan-dan' with a heavy English 'd' and 'n'. Keep it light.
  • Over-stressing the first syllable.
  • Elongating the 'a' sound like 'daan-daan'.
  • Pronouncing the 'n' as a full 'm' sound if it's not followed by a 'b' or 'p'.
  • Using a rising intonation like a question when it's a statement.

कठिनाई स्तर

पठन 1/5

Easy to read as it's usually in hiragana.

लिखना 1/5

Very simple to write in hiragana.

बोलना 2/5

Easy to pronounce, but requires practice with pitch accent.

श्रवण 2/5

Commonly heard, but needs to be distinguished from similar sounding words.

आगे क्या सीखें

पूर्वापेक्षाएँ

なる (Naru) - To become 少し (Sukoshi) - A little 暑い (Atsui) - Hot 寒い (Samui) - Cold 分かる (Wakaru) - To understand

आगे सीखें

少しずつ (Sukoshizutsu) - Little by little 次第に (Shidai ni) - Gradually (Formal) 徐々に (Jojo ni) - Gradually (Steady) ますます (Masumasu) - More and more ～てくる (Te kuru) - Aspect marker for change toward present

उन्नत

変容 (Hen'you) - Transformation 推移 (Suii) - Transition/Change 刻一刻 (Koku-ikkoku) - Moment by moment 漸次 (Zenji) - Gradually/Little by little (Very formal)

ज़रूरी व्याकरण

Adjective + なる (Naru)

寒くなる (Become cold)

Verb-te + くる (Te Kuru)

分かってきた (Came to understand)

Verb-te + いく (Te Iku)

変わっていく (Going to change)

Noun + になる (Ni Naru)

友達になる (Become friends)

Verb-stem + はじめる (Hajimeru)

咲き始める (Start to bloom)

पूरी व्याख्या पढ़ने के लिए मुफ़्त साइन अप करें

स्तर के अनुसार उदाहरण

1

だんだん暑くなります。

It gradually becomes hot.

A1: Basic usage with an adjective and 'naru'.

2

だんだん暗くなります。

It gradually becomes dark.

A1: Describing a natural change in the environment.

3

だんだん寒くなりました。

It gradually became cold.

A1: Past tense change of state.

4

だんだん分かります。

I gradually understand.

A1: Simple verb usage.

5

空がだんだん青くなります。

The sky gradually becomes blue.

A1: Subject + particle 'ga' + dandan.

6

だんだん安くなります。

It gradually becomes cheap.

A1: Describing value change.

7

だんだん静かになります。

It gradually becomes quiet.

A1: Usage with a na-adjective (shizuka).

8

だんだん楽しくなります。

It gradually becomes fun.

A1: Describing a shift in mood.

1

日本語がだんだん上手になってきました。

My Japanese has gradually become better.

A2: Using ~te kuru to show change toward the present.

2

だんだん寒くなってきましたね。

It's gradually getting colder, isn't it?

A2: Adding 'ne' for social interaction.

3

仕事にだんだん慣れてきました。

I've gradually gotten used to the job.

A2: Using 'narete kuru' for adaptation.

4

雨がだんだん強くなってきました。

The rain has gradually become stronger.

A2: Describing intensity increase.

5

だんだんお腹が空いてきました。

I've gradually become hungry.

A2: Describing internal physical state change.

6

春になって、花がだんだん咲き始めました。

Spring came, and flowers gradually started to bloom.

A2: Using 'v-stem + hajimeru' with dandan.

7

だんだん眠くなってきました。

I've gradually become sleepy.

A2: Describing a shift toward sleepiness.

8

テストがだんだん難しくなります。

The test gradually becomes difficult.

A2: Describing a progression of difficulty.

1

だんだん寒くなってきたので、コートを出しました。

Since it has gradually become cold, I took out my coat.

B1: Using 'node' to link cause and effect.

2

毎日練習すれば、だんだん上手になりますよ。

If you practice every day, you will gradually get better.

B1: Using the conditional '~ba'.

3

話しているうちに、彼のことがだんだん分かってきました。

While talking, I gradually came to understand him.

B1: Using '~uchi ni' (while/during).

4

だんだん暗くなってきたから、早く帰りましょう。

Since it's gradually getting dark, let's go home early.

B1: Using 'kara' for reason and a suggestion.

5

景気がだんだん良くなっていくといいですね。

I hope the economy gradually gets better.

B1: Using '~to ii desu ne' to express a hope.

6

だんだん慣れてきたけれど、まだミスをします。

I've gradually gotten used to it, but I still make mistakes.

B1: Using 'keredo' to show contrast.

7

だんだん人が増えてきて、賑やかになりました。

People gradually increased, and it became lively.

B1: Describing a change in a social environment.

8

だんだん不安になってきましたが、頑張ります。

I've gradually become anxious, but I'll do my best.

B1: Expressing determination despite changing feelings.

1

周囲の期待がだんだんプレッシャーになってきました。

The expectations around me have gradually become a pressure.

B2: Abstract noun usage with dandan.

2

時間が経つにつれて、だんだん記憶が薄れていきました。

As time passed, the memories gradually faded away.

B2: Pairing with '~ni tsurete' (as... then...).

3

最初は反対していた彼も、だんだん賛成してくれるようになりました。

Though he opposed it at first, he gradually came to agree.

B2: Describing a shift in opinion over time.

4

だんだん複雑になっていく社会に対応しなければなりません。

We must adapt to a society that is gradually becoming complex.

B2: Using dandan in a relative clause.

5

だんだん状況が悪化しているように見えます。

It looks like the situation is gradually worsening.

B2: Using '~you ni mieru' (looks like).

6

その噂はだんだん真実味を帯びてきました。

That rumor gradually began to sound like the truth.

B2: Using the idiomatic 'shinjitsumi o obiru'.

7

だんだん自分の間違いに気づき始めました。

I gradually began to realize my own mistake.

B2: Self-reflection and internal change.

8

だんだん熱を帯びてきた議論は、夜中まで続きました。

The discussion, which gradually grew heated, continued until midnight.

B2: Using dandan to describe the intensity of an event.

1

文明の進歩とともに、私たちの生活はだんだん便利になってきました。

Along with the progress of civilization, our lives have gradually become more convenient.

C1: Formal structure with '~to tomo ni'.

2

だんだん形を成していくその作品に、観客は目を奪われました。

The audience was captivated by the work that was gradually taking shape.

C1: Literary description using dandan.

3

だんだん追い詰められていく犯人の心理が見事に描かれています。

The psychology of the culprit being gradually backed into a corner is brilliantly depicted.

C1: Describing artistic or literary themes.

4

だんだん明らかになっていく事実に、世間は驚きを隠せませんでした。

The public could not hide their surprise at the facts that were gradually becoming clear.

C1: Describing a public reaction to unfolding events.

5

だんだん薄れゆく意識の中で、彼は家族の名前を呼びました。

In his gradually fading consciousness, he called his family's names.

C1: Using 'yuku' for a poetic sense of fading.

6

だんだん深刻化する環境問題に対して、早急な対策が求められています。

Immediate measures are required for environmental problems that are gradually becoming serious.

C1: Formal/Professional context.

7

だんだん洗練されていく彼女の演技は、多くの人を魅了しました。

Her acting, which was gradually becoming refined, charmed many people.

C1: Describing the evolution of a skill or art.

8

だんだん遠ざかっていく汽笛の音が、旅情を誘います。

The sound of the train whistle gradually moving away evokes a feeling of travel.

C1: Evocative, sensory description.

1

だんだん変容を遂げていく都市の景観に、歴史の重みを感じずにはいられない。

In the urban landscape that is gradually undergoing transformation, one cannot help but feel the weight of history.

C2: High-level literary expression with '~zu ni wa irarenai'.

2

だんだん形骸化していく伝統行事の在り方を、今一度見直すべきだ。

We should reconsider the state of traditional events that are gradually becoming mere formalities.

C2: Using the advanced term 'keigaika' (becoming a shell/formality).

3

だんだん剥落していく記憶の断片を繋ぎ合わせるように、彼は筆を走らせた。

He wrote rapidly, as if to connect the fragments of memory that were gradually peeling away.

C2: Poetic use of 'hakuraku' (peeling off).

4

だんだん先鋭化していく議論の行方に、多くの知識人が懸念を表明している。

Many intellectuals are expressing concern about the direction of the discussion, which is gradually becoming radicalized.

C2: Using 'sen'eika' (radicalization/sharpening).

5

だんだん瓦解していく組織の内部では、疑心暗鬼が渦巻いていた。

Inside the organization that was gradually collapsing, suspicion and fear were swirling.

C2: Using 'gakai' (collapse) and 'gishin-anki' (suspicion).

6

だんだん希薄化していく人間関係の修復は、現代社会の大きな課題である。

Repairing human relationships that are gradually thinning is a major challenge of modern society.

C2: Using 'kihakuka' (thinning/dilution).

7

だんだん収束に向かうかと思われた事態は、新たな展開を見せた。

The situation, which was thought to be gradually heading toward a resolution, took a new turn.

C2: Describing complex narrative shifts.

8

だんだん衰退していく産業を支えるには、抜本的な改革が必要不可欠だ。

To support industries that are gradually declining, fundamental reforms are indispensable.

C2: High-level policy/economic discussion.

सामान्य शब्द संयोजन

だんだん慣れる
だんだん良くなる
だんだん分かる
だんだん寒くなる
だんだん暗くなる
だんだん広がる
だんだん増える
だんだん減る
だんだん近づく
だんだん面白くなる

सामान्य वाक्यांश

だんだん良くなっています

— It is gradually getting better. Used for health or situations.

景気はだんだん良くなっています。

だんだん分かってきました

— I've gradually come to understand. Used for lessons or complex topics.

数学の面白さがだんだん分かってきました。

だんだん暑くなりますね

— It's gradually getting hotter, isn't it? A common seasonal greeting.

もうすぐ夏ですね。だんだん暑くなりますね。

だんだん慣れてきました

— I've gradually gotten used to it. Used for new jobs or environments.

一人暮らしにだんだん慣れてきました。

だんだん減っています

— It is gradually decreasing. Used for numbers or quantities.

ゴミの量がだんだん減っています。

だんだん増えてきました

— It has gradually increased. Used for people or data.

観光客がだんだん増えてきました。

だんだん暗くなってきました

— It has gradually become dark. Used to suggest going home.

だんだん暗くなってきました。帰りましょう。

だんだん不安になります

— I gradually become anxious. Used to express growing worry.

結果を待つ間、だんだん不安になります。

だんだん楽しくなってきました

— It has gradually become fun. Used after an awkward start.

最初は緊張しましたが、だんだん楽しくなってきました。

だんだん上手になりますよ

— You will gradually get better. A common phrase of encouragement.

諦めないで。だんだん上手になりますよ。

अक्सर इससे भ्रम होता है

だんだん vs そろそろ

Sorosoro means 'soon' or 'about time,' while dandan means 'gradually.' They both involve time but different aspects of it.

だんだん vs どんどん

Dondon means 'rapidly' or 'steadily' with a lot of momentum. Dandan is slower and more step-by-step.

だんだん vs ますます

Masumasu means 'more and more,' focusing on increasing intensity, whereas dandan focuses on the progression itself.

मुहावरे और अभिव्यक्तियाँ

"だんだん畑 (Dandan-batake)"

— Terraced fields. Fields arranged like stairs on a hillside.

美しいだんだん畑が見えます。

Neutral/Agricultural
"だんだん良くなる法華の太鼓 (Dandan yokunaru hokke no taiko)"

— A phrase meaning things are getting better and better, often referring to a rhythmic improvement.

彼の腕前は、だんだん良くなる法華の太鼓だ。

Old-fashioned/Idiomatic
"だんだんに (Dandan ni)"

— Gradually/Step by step. A slightly more formal way to use the word.

だんだんに準備を進めましょう。

Semi-formal
"だんだんの御礼 (Dandan no orei)"

— In certain dialects (like Izumo), this means 'Many thanks.'

だんだんの御礼を申し上げます。

Regional Dialect
"だんだん拍子 (Dandan byoushi)"

— A rhythmic beat that increases in tempo or intensity.

だんだん拍子が速くなっていった。

Musical/Literary
"だんだん降り (Dandan furi)"

— Rain that gradually gets heavier.

だんだん降りになってきた。

Weather-specific
"だんだん登り (Dandan nobori)"

— A gradual upward slope or ascent.

この道はだんだん登りになっています。

Topographical
"だんだん気 (Dandan-ki)"

— A feeling that is gradually growing or shifting.

だんだん気が変わってきた。

Casual
"だんだん増し (Dandan-mashi)"

— A gradual increase in amount or degree.

だんだん増しで面白くなる。

Casual
"だんだん冷え (Dandan-hie)"

— The gradual cooling of the temperature, especially at night.

夜はだんだん冷えが厳しくなる。

Weather-specific

आसानी से भ्रमित होने वाले

だんだん vs どんどん

They sound similar (both start with 'd').

Dondon is fast and vigorous; dandan is slow and gradual.

どんどん食べて！ (Eat up rapidly!) vs だんだんお腹がいっぱいになる (I'm gradually getting full.)

だんだん vs そろそろ

Both relate to the passage of time.

Sorosoro is about an upcoming point in time; dandan is about the process leading up to a change.

そろそろ行きましょう (Let's go soon) vs だんだん暗くなってきた (It's gradually gotten dark).

だんだん vs だんだん vs 少しずつ

They are very close synonyms.

Dandan focuses on the steps/stages; sukoshizutsu focuses on the small amount/quantity of change.

だんだん慣れる (Gradually get used to) vs 少しずつ食べる (Eat little by little).

だんだん vs だんだん vs 次第に

Both mean 'gradually.'

Shidai ni is formal and used in writing; dandan is common in speech.

景気は次第に回復した (The economy gradually recovered - formal) vs だんだん良くなった (It got better - casual).

だんだん vs だんだん vs 徐々に

Both mean 'gradually.'

Jojo ni emphasizes a slow, steady, and constant pace; dandan is more general.

スピードを徐々に落とす (Slowly and steadily reduce speed) vs だんだん遅くなる (Gradually get slower).

वाक्य संरचनाएँ

A1

だんだん + [い-Adj] + くなる

だんだん暑くなる。

A1

だんだん + [な-Adj] + になる

だんだん静かになる。

A2

だんだん + [Verb-te] + くる

だんだん分かってきた。

A2

だんだん + [Noun] + になる

だんだん春になる。

B1

だんだん + [Verb-te] + いく

だんだん良くなっていく。

B1

だんだん + [Verb-stem] + はじめる

だんだん雨が降り始める。

B2

だんだん + [Abstract Noun] + になる

だんだんプレッシャーになる。

C1

だんだん + [Literary Verb]

だんだん形を成す。

शब्द परिवार

संज्ञा

段 (Dan) - Step/Level/Grade
階段 (Kaidan) - Stairs
段差 (Dansa) - Step/Level difference
段取り (Dandori) - Arrangements/Plans

क्रिया

段立てる (Dandateru) - To arrange in steps (rare)

संबंधित

次第 (Shidai) - Order/Dependent on
徐々 (Jojo) - Slowly
少しずつ (Sukoshizutsu) - Little by little
一歩一歩 (Ippo ippo) - Step by step
刻々 (Kokukoku) - Moment by moment
सभी उदाहरण देखने के लिए मुफ़्त साइन अप करें

इसे कैसे इस्तेमाल करें

frequency

Extremely high in daily speech and media.

सामान्य गलतियाँ
  • だんだん寒いです。 → だんだん寒くなってきました。

    You need a verb of change like 'naru' because 'dandan' implies a process, not a static state.

  • 電気がだんだん消えました。 → 電気が急に消えました。

    A light turning off is usually sudden. 'Dandan' is for gradual processes, not instantaneous ones.

  • だんだんもっと食べたいです。 → もっと食べたいです。

    You don't 'gradually want more' in this context. 'Motto' is enough for 'more.'

  • だんだん美味しいです。 → だんだん美味しくなってきました。

    Again, the verb 'naru' is required to show that the food is becoming delicious (perhaps as you eat more).

  • だんだん走ります。 → 少しずつ走ります。

    'Dandan' is rarely used for physical actions like running unless you mean your speed is gradually increasing (dandan hayaku naru).

सुझाव

Pair with 'Naru'

Always remember to pair 'dandan' with a verb of change like 'naru.' Saying 'dandan samui' is like saying 'gradually cold' instead of 'gradually becoming cold.' The verb makes the sentence flow naturally.

Process over Result

Use 'dandan' when you want to draw attention to the transition itself. If you only care about the result, you don't need 'dandan.' It adds a descriptive, observational quality to your Japanese.

Weather Talk

'Dandan samuku natte kimashita ne' is one of the most useful small-talk phrases in Japan. Use it to break the ice during seasonal transitions; it's polite, observant, and easy to respond to.

Encouragement

If you are helping a friend with something, say 'Dandan jouzu ni natteru yo!' (You're gradually getting better!). It's a very encouraging and natural way to acknowledge their progress.

Know your Synonyms

While 'dandan' is great for speaking, try to use 'shidai ni' in your writing to instantly level up your formal Japanese. It shows you understand the difference between spoken and written registers.

Keep it Flat

Try to keep the pitch of 'dandan' relatively flat. If you emphasize the first syllable too much, it can sound a bit unnatural. Listen to native speakers and mimic their rhythmic, even delivery.

Staircase Method

Whenever you see the word 'dandan,' visualize a staircase. Each step is a small change. This mental image will help you remember that it's for 'step-by-step' changes, not sudden ones.

Te-Kuru / Te-Iku

Mastering the 'dandan + ~te kuru' pattern is a shortcut to sounding intermediate. It's used so often that it becomes a single mental block for many learners. Practice it until it becomes second nature.

Universal Change

Don't limit 'dandan' to just weather. Use it for feelings, economics, health, and skill levels. It is one of the most widely applicable adverbs in the Japanese language.

Not for Speed

If something is happening fast, don't use 'dandan.' If you want to say something is changing quickly, use 'dondon' or 'mirumiru.' 'Dandan' is for the slow and steady.

याद करें

स्मृति सहायक

Think of 'Dan' as a man climbing a staircase. As Dan goes 'Dan, Dan, Dan,' he is 'gradually' getting higher. Dandan = Dan climbing steps.

दृश्य संबंध

Visualize a staircase. Each step is labeled 'Dan.' As you walk up, you are changing your height 'dandan' (gradually).

Word Web

Stairs Progress Weather Growth Learning Time Change Slowly

चैलेंज

Try to use 'dandan' in three sentences today: one about the weather, one about your Japanese study, and one about how you feel (e.g., getting hungry or tired).

शब्द की उत्पत्ति

The word comes from the Chinese character '段' (dan), which originally depicted the act of hammering or working on a piece of metal or stone in stages. In Japanese, this character was adopted to mean 'step' or 'level.' Repeating the character (reduplication) is a common linguistic feature in Asian languages to indicate repetition, continuity, or plurality.

मूल अर्थ: The original meaning was literally 'step by step' or 'stair by stair.'

Sino-Japanese (Kango origin, but used as a native adverb).

सांस्कृतिक संदर्भ

There are no major sensitivities. It is a very safe and positive word to use.

English speakers often use 'gradually' or 'bit by bit.' 'Dandan' is more common in daily speech than 'gradually' is in English, which can sometimes sound a bit formal.

The song 'DAN DAN Kokoro Hikareteku' (The opening theme of Dragon Ball GT), which means 'Gradually, my heart is being drawn to you.' The NHK morning drama 'Dandan,' set in Shimane and Kyoto. Various haiku and poems that use 'dandan' to describe the changing seasons.

असल ज़िंदगी में अभ्यास करें

वास्तविक संदर्भ

Weather Forecasts

  • だんだん晴れてくる
  • だんだん気温が下がる
  • だんだん風が強くなる
  • だんだん雨が止む

Learning/Education

  • だんだん理解できる
  • だんだん上手になる
  • だんだん覚える
  • だんだん興味がわく

Health/Physical State

  • だんだん良くなる
  • だんだん疲れる
  • だんだん眠くなる
  • だんだん回復する

Social Situations

  • だんだん慣れる
  • だんだん仲良くなる
  • だんだん賑やかになる
  • だんだん人が減る

Personal Feelings

  • だんだん好きになる
  • だんだん不安になる
  • だんだん楽しみになる
  • だんだん悲しくなる

बातचीत की शुरुआत

"最近、だんだん寒くなってきましたね。"

"日本語の勉強、だんだん分かってきましたか？"

"新しい仕事には、だんだん慣れましたか？"

"この映画、だんだん面白くなってきますよ。"

"だんだんお腹が空いてきませんか？"

डायरी विषय

最近、だんだん上手になってきたことは何ですか？ (What is something you've gradually become better at recently?)

あなたの周りで、だんだん変わってきたことはありますか？ (Is there anything around you that has gradually changed?)

だんだん好きになった食べ物や趣味について書いてください。 (Write about a food or hobby you gradually came to like.)

だんだん寒くなって（暑くなって）きたら、何をしたいですか？ (What do you want to do as it gradually gets colder/hotter?)

これからの人生で、だんだんどうなっていきたいですか？ (How do you want your life to gradually become in the future?)

अक्सर पूछे जाने वाले सवाल

10 सवाल

Yes, you can. For example, 'dandan wakaranaku naru' means 'gradually become unable to understand.' It simply describes the progression of the change, whether positive or negative.

Usually, yes. While the kanji '段々' exists, it is much more common to see it in hiragana in modern Japanese. Using kanji can make it look slightly more old-fashioned or literary.

Adding 'to' makes it 'dandanto,' which is slightly more emphatic and highlights the 'manner' of the change. However, in most daily situations, 'dandan' is sufficient and more common.

Only in specific regional dialects, like the Izumo dialect in Shimane Prefecture. In standard Japanese (Tokyo dialect), it never means 'thank you.' If you use it that way in Tokyo, people will be confused.

Yes, 'dandan' is perfect for long-term changes like a child growing up or a city changing over decades. It just requires that the change is perceived as happening in stages.

It is acceptable in a friendly business email, but for a formal report or a message to a superior, 'shidai ni' or 'jojo ni' is preferred to sound more professional.

Absolutely. 'Dandan heru' (gradually decrease) is a very common phrase. It applies to any scalar change, whether increasing or decreasing.

Because '~te kuru' indicates a change that has been developing and is now reaching the present moment. Since 'dandan' describes the process of that change, they are a natural pair.

It is considered a mimetic word (gitaigo) because it mimics the visual or conceptual 'step-by-step' nature of a process, rather than a specific sound.

It sounds a bit incomplete. It's better to say 'dandan suki ni naru' (gradually come to like) or 'dandan suki ni natte kita' (I've gradually come to like).

सुझाव और नोट्स के लिए मुफ़्त साइन अप करें

खुद को परखो 180 सवाल

writing

Write a sentence about the weather getting colder using 'dandan'.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

सही! बिलकुल नहीं। सही जवाब:
writing

Write a sentence about your Japanese progress using 'dandan'.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

सही! बिलकुल नहीं। सही जवाब:
writing

Write a sentence about getting used to a new job using 'dandan'.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

सही! बिलकुल नहीं। सही जवाब:
writing

Write a sentence about the sky getting dark using 'dandan'.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

सही! बिलकुल नहीं। सही जवाब:
writing

Write a sentence about becoming hungry using 'dandan'.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

सही! बिलकुल नहीं। सही जवाब:
writing

Write a sentence about the economy improving using 'dandan'.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

सही! बिलकुल नहीं। सही जवाब:
writing

Write a sentence about flowers blooming in spring using 'dandan'.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

सही! बिलकुल नहीं। सही जवाब:
writing

Write a sentence about a rumor spreading using 'dandan'.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

सही! बिलकुल नहीं। सही जवाब:
writing

Write a sentence about becoming anxious using 'dandan'.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

सही! बिलकुल नहीं। सही जवाब:
writing

Write a sentence about a child growing up using 'dandan'.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

सही! बिलकुल नहीं। सही जवाब:
writing

Write a sentence about understanding a difficult book using 'dandan'.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

सही! बिलकुल नहीं। सही जवाब:
writing

Write a sentence about a crowd increasing using 'dandan'.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

सही! बिलकुल नहीं। सही जवाब:
writing

Write a sentence about a pain going away using 'dandan'.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

सही! बिलकुल नहीं। सही जवाब:
writing

Write a sentence about becoming sleepy using 'dandan'.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

सही! बिलकुल नहीं। सही जवाब:
writing

Write a sentence about the rain stopping using 'dandan'.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

सही! बिलकुल नहीं। सही जवाब:
writing

Write a sentence about becoming friends with someone using 'dandan'.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

सही! बिलकुल नहीं। सही जवाब:
writing

Write a sentence about the sunset using 'dandan'.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

सही! बिलकुल नहीं। सही जवाब:
writing

Write a sentence about a technology becoming popular using 'dandan'.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

सही! बिलकुल नहीं। सही जवाब:
writing

Write a sentence about a situation worsening using 'dandan'.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

सही! बिलकुल नहीं। सही जवाब:
writing

Write a sentence about memories fading using 'dandan'.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

सही! बिलकुल नहीं। सही जवाब:
speaking

Say: 'It's gradually getting colder.'

Read this aloud:

सही! बिलकुल नहीं। सही जवाब:
speaking

Say: 'I've gradually come to understand Japanese.'

Read this aloud:

सही! बिलकुल नहीं। सही जवाब:
speaking

Say: 'I've gradually gotten used to this job.'

Read this aloud:

सही! बिलकुल नहीं। सही जवाब:
speaking

Say: 'I'm gradually getting hungry.'

Read this aloud:

सही! बिलकुल नहीं। सही जवाब:
speaking

Say: 'The rain is gradually stopping.'

Read this aloud:

सही! बिलकुल नहीं। सही जवाब:
speaking

Say: 'It's gradually getting dark, isn't it?'

Read this aloud:

सही! बिलकुल नहीं। सही जवाब:
speaking

Say: 'You'll gradually get better.'

Read this aloud:

सही! बिलकुल नहीं। सही जवाब:
speaking

Say: 'I gradually came to like him.'

Read this aloud:

सही! बिलकुल नहीं। सही जवाब:
speaking

Say: 'The test is gradually getting difficult.'

Read this aloud:

सही! बिलकुल नहीं। सही जवाब:
speaking

Say: 'I've gradually become sleepy.'

Read this aloud:

सही! बिलकुल नहीं। सही जवाब:
speaking

Say: 'The flowers are gradually blooming.'

Read this aloud:

सही! बिलकुल नहीं। सही जवाब:
speaking

Say: 'The town is gradually getting lively.'

Read this aloud:

सही! बिलकुल नहीं। सही जवाब:
speaking

Say: 'My health is gradually getting better.'

Read this aloud:

सही! बिलकुल नहीं। सही जवाब:
speaking

Say: 'I've gradually become anxious.'

Read this aloud:

सही! बिलकुल नहीं। सही जवाब:
speaking

Say: 'The rumor is gradually spreading.'

Read this aloud:

सही! बिलकुल नहीं। सही जवाब:
speaking

Say: 'I gradually realized my mistake.'

Read this aloud:

सही! बिलकुल नहीं। सही जवाब:
speaking

Say: 'The situation is gradually worsening.'

Read this aloud:

सही! बिलकुल नहीं। सही जवाब:
speaking

Say: 'The memories are gradually fading.'

Read this aloud:

सही! बिलकुल नहीं। सही जवाब:
speaking

Say: 'I'll tell you about it gradually.'

Read this aloud:

सही! बिलकुल नहीं। सही जवाब:
speaking

Say: 'The discussion is gradually getting heated.'

Read this aloud:

सही! बिलकुल नहीं। सही जवाब:
listening

Listen to the sentence: 'だんだん暑くなってきました。' What is happening?

सही! बिलकुल नहीं। सही जवाब:
सही! बिलकुल नहीं। सही जवाब:
listening

Listen to the sentence: 'だんだん分かってきました。' What is the speaker's state?

सही! बिलकुल नहीं। सही जवाब:
सही! बिलकुल नहीं। सही जवाब:
listening

Listen to the sentence: 'だんだん人が増えてきました。' What is happening to the crowd?

सही! बिलकुल नहीं। सही जवाब:
सही! बिलकुल नहीं। सही जवाब:
listening

Listen to the sentence: 'だんだん暗くなってきたから帰りましょう。' What does the speaker suggest?

सही! बिलकुल नहीं। सही जवाब:
सही! बिलकुल नहीं। सही जवाब:
listening

Listen to the sentence: 'だんだん上手になりますよ。' Is this encouraging or discouraging?

सही! बिलकुल नहीं। सही जवाब:
सही! बिलकुल नहीं। सही जवाब:
listening

Listen to the sentence: 'だんだん不安になってきました。' How does the speaker feel?

सही! बिलकुल नहीं। सही जवाब:
सही! बिलकुल नहीं। सही जवाब:
listening

Listen to the sentence: 'だんだん慣れてきました。' Is the person still struggling?

सही! बिलकुल नहीं। सही जवाब:
सही! बिलकुल नहीं। सही जवाब:
listening

Listen to the sentence: 'だんだん雨が強くなってきました。' Should you take an umbrella?

सही! बिलकुल नहीं। सही जवाब:
सही! बिलकुल नहीं। सही जवाब:
listening

Listen to the sentence: 'だんだん景気が良くなっています。' Is the economy good or bad?

सही! बिलकुल नहीं। सही जवाब:
सही! बिलकुल नहीं। सही जवाब:
listening

Listen to the sentence: 'だんだん眠くなってきました。' What will the speaker likely do next?

सही! बिलकुल नहीं। सही जवाब:
सही! बिलकुल नहीं। सही जवाब:
listening

Listen to the sentence: 'だんだん春が近づいています。' What season is it almost?

सही! बिलकुल नहीं। सही जवाब:
सही! बिलकुल नहीं। सही जवाब:
listening

Listen to the sentence: 'だんだん面白くなってきました。' Is the speaker bored?

सही! बिलकुल नहीं। सही जवाब:
सही! बिलकुल नहीं। सही जवाब:
listening

Listen to the sentence: 'だんだん複雑になってきました。' Is the topic simple?

सही! बिलकुल नहीं। सही जवाब:
सही! बिलकुल नहीं। सही जवाब:
listening

Listen to the sentence: 'だんだん明らかにされていく真実。' What is happening to the truth?

सही! बिलकुल नहीं। सही जवाब:
सही! बिलकुल नहीं। सही जवाब:
listening

Listen to the sentence: 'だんだん衰退していく産業。' What is happening to the industry?

सही! बिलकुल नहीं। सही जवाब:
सही! बिलकुल नहीं। सही जवाब:
writing

Write: 'I gradually fell in love with her.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

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