In 15 Seconds
- Studying with genuine focus and effort.
- Doing things the 'proper' or expected way.
- Commonly used for goals, promises, and parenting.
Meaning
This phrase describes the act of studying with real focus and diligence, rather than just going through the motions or being distracted.
Key Examples
3 of 6Making a New Year's resolution
Kotoshi wa chanto benkyou suru tsumori desu.
I intend to study properly this year.
A parent scolding a child who is playing games
Geemu bakari shinaide, chanto benkyou shinasai!
Don't just play games; study properly!
A student talking to a teacher
Tesuto no tame ni chanto benkyou shimasu.
I will study properly for the test.
Cultural Background
The concept of 'Chanto' is linked to 'Gaman' (endurance). Studying properly often means enduring the boredom or difficulty without complaining. Exam season (January-March) is when this phrase is heard most. Shrines are filled with students promising to 'chanto benkyou suru' to the gods. Japanese 'Juku' (cram schools) are environments specifically designed to make students study 'chanto'.
Use with 'shite iru'
If you want to say you are currently being a good student, use the continuous form: '{ちゃんと|chanto}{勉強|べんきょう}している}'.
Don't over-use 'Chanto'
If you say it too much to others, you might sound like a nagging parent!
In 15 Seconds
- Studying with genuine focus and effort.
- Doing things the 'proper' or expected way.
- Commonly used for goals, promises, and parenting.
What It Means
Imagine you’re sitting at your desk. Your textbook is open. But wait—you’re actually thinking about ramen. That is NOT chanto benkyou suru. This phrase is about the 'how' of studying. It means doing it thoroughly and with focus. It’s the difference between skimming a page and taking notes. It’s about being diligent and meeting the expected standard. If you study chanto, you’re really putting in the work. It implies a sense of responsibility and quality over just 'spending time' at a desk.
How To Use It
You can use this phrase in many ways. To make a promise, say chanto benkyou suru yo. It sounds like you’re really committing. To tell someone else to focus, use chanto benkyou shite. It’s a common way to encourage (or nag) someone. You can also use it to describe your habits. Saikin, chanto benkyou shite iru means you’ve been diligent lately. It’s a very flexible adverb that fits right before the verb. It's like adding 'for real' to your study plans.
When To Use It
This is the perfect phrase for exam season. Use it when talking to classmates about your goals. It’s great for New Year’s resolutions. If you’re learning a new skill, like guitar or cooking, use it there too. It shows you take your hobby seriously. It’s also very common in family settings. Parents use it to keep their kids on track. If you want to show a teacher you’re serious about their class, this is your go-to phrase.
When NOT To Use It
Don’t use this for casual, fun activities. If you’re just browsing Wikipedia for fun, don’t use chanto. It sounds too heavy and serious for that. Also, be careful with the command form. Telling your boss to chanto benkyou shite is a one-way ticket to trouble. It implies they aren’t doing it right currently. Avoid it when the mood is purely relaxed and no effort is required. It carries a subtle weight of duty and social expectation.
Cultural Background
In Japan, chanto is a way of life. It’s one of the first words children learn. It reflects the value of 'shitsuke' or upbringing. Doing things 'properly' is a sign of respect for the task and the people around you. It’s not just about the result; it’s about the process. If you do something chanto, you are viewed as a reliable and mature person. It’s deeply tied to the Japanese work ethic and the idea of 'ganbaru' (doing one's best).
Common Variations
You will hear chanto benkyou shinasai from parents. It’s the classic 'Study properly!' command. Friends might say chanto benkyou shinakucha when they feel guilty. This means 'I really have to study properly.' In a more formal setting, you might hear shikkari benkyou shimasu. Shikkari is like a more grown-up, robust version of chanto. But for daily life and most conversations, chanto remains the absolute king of adverbs.
Usage Notes
The phrase is neutral and very versatile. However, avoid using it as a command toward superiors, as it implies they are currently failing to meet a standard.
Use with 'shite iru'
If you want to say you are currently being a good student, use the continuous form: '{ちゃんと|chanto}{勉強|べんきょう}している}'.
Don't over-use 'Chanto'
If you say it too much to others, you might sound like a nagging parent!
The 'Chanto' mindset
In Japan, doing things 'chanto' is a way to reduce anxiety and feel like you are in control of your life.
Examples
6Kotoshi wa chanto benkyou suru tsumori desu.
I intend to study properly this year.
Expresses a firm intention to be diligent.
Geemu bakari shinaide, chanto benkyou shinasai!
Don't just play games; study properly!
A very common parental command using the imperative form.
Tesuto no tame ni chanto benkyou shimasu.
I will study properly for the test.
Uses the polite form to show respect and commitment.
Gomen, kyou wa chanto benkyou shinakucha.
Sorry, I have to study properly today.
Uses the casual 'must' form to explain a priority.
Mite! Neko ga hon no ue de chanto benkyou shiteru.
Look! The cat is properly studying on top of the book.
Uses the phrase ironically for a cute situation.
Motto chanto benkyou sureba yokatta na.
I wish I had studied more properly.
Expresses regret over a lack of past effort.
Test Yourself
Fill in the blank with the correct adverb to mean 'properly'.
{明日|あした}は{試験|しけん}だから、{今日|きょう}は（ ）{勉強|べんきょう}します。
'{ちゃんと|chanto}' is the correct adverb for doing something properly or as expected.
Which sentence is the most natural way for a teacher to encourage a student?
Choose the best option:
This is a standard, polite way to tell someone to study properly.
Complete the dialogue.
A: {最近|さいきん}、{成績|せいせき}が{悪|わる}いんだ。 B: （ ）
Giving advice to study properly is the most logical response to poor grades.
🎉 Score: /3
Visual Learning Aids
Study Styles in Japanese
Practice Bank
3 exercises{明日|あした}は{試験|しけん}だから、{今日|きょう}は（ ）{勉強|べんきょう}します。
'{ちゃんと|chanto}' is the correct adverb for doing something properly or as expected.
Choose the best option:
This is a standard, polite way to tell someone to study properly.
A: {最近|さいきん}、{成績|せいせき}が{悪|わる}いんだ。 B: （ ）
Giving advice to study properly is the most logical response to poor grades.
🎉 Score: /3
Frequently Asked Questions
4 questionsNo, it is a standard adverb used in both casual and polite speech.
Yes, '{ちゃんと|chanto}{仕事|しごと}する}' (to work properly) is very common.
'Chanto' is about meeting a standard; 'shikkari' is about being strong and reliable.
It sounds a bit heavy for hobbies, but if you are serious about learning a craft, it's fine.
Related Phrases
{しっかり|shikkari}{勉強|べんきょう}する
similarTo study hard/solidly
{真面目|まじめ}に{勉強|べんきょう}する
similarTo study earnestly
{適当|てきとう}に{勉強|べんきょう}する
contrastTo study haphazardly/half-heartedly
{勉強|べんきょう}に{励|はげ}む
formalTo devote oneself to study
