It is a versatile verb used to express both capability and the completion of an object or event.
Word in 30 Seconds
- Expresses the ability to perform an action.
- Indicates that something has been completed or created.
- Used frequently in daily life for various situations.
Overview
- 1概要：『出来る』は、主に2つの意味を持ちます。一つは「能力・可能」で、何かをするスキルや状況が整っていることを指します。もう一つは「完成・出現」で、新しいものが作られたり、出来上がったりすることを指します。2) 使用パターン：能力を表す際は「動詞の辞書形＋こと＋が出来る」や「名詞＋が出来る」という形をとります。完成を表す際は「料理が出来る」「友達が出来る」のように、対象となるものが主語になります。3) 一般的な文脈：日常生活のあらゆる場面で使われます。「英語が出来る（スキル）」「宿題が出来る（完了）」「新しい駅が出来る（建設）」など、その範囲は非常に広いです。4) 類語との比較：「可能だ」はより硬い表現で、書き言葉やビジネスシーンで好まれます。「出来る」は口語的で、誰に対しても使える万能な言葉です。
Examples
私はテニスが出来ます。
everydayI can play tennis.
会議の準備が出来ました。
formalThe meeting preparation is ready.
新しい友達が出来た。
informalI made a new friend.
この課題は明日までに出来る。
academicI can finish this assignment by tomorrow.
Common Collocations
Common Phrases
出来るだけ早く
as soon as possible
何でも出来る
can do anything
出来るわけがない
there is no way I can do it
Often Confused With
Possible is a formal noun/adjective. It is rarely used in casual conversation compared to the verb 'dekiru'.
Tsukuru focuses on the action of creating. Dekiru focuses on the result of that action being finished.
Grammar Patterns
How to Use It
Usage Notes
Dekiru is a neutral, high-frequency verb used in both formal and informal settings. When expressing ability, it is often paired with 'koto ga'. In casual speech, the 'koto' is sometimes omitted, though keeping it is safer for learners.
Common Mistakes
Learners often confuse the particles 'ga' and 'wo' when using 'dekiru'. Remember that 'dekiru' usually takes 'ga' for the subject of the ability or the object that is completed. Also, ensure you don't use it as a direct translation for 'make' in every context.
Tips
Mastering the versatile uses of Dekiru
Try to categorize the usage into 'capability' and 'creation'. This mental model helps you understand the nuance quickly.
Avoid overuse in formal writing
While perfect for speech, use more specific verbs like '作成する' or '可能である' in formal documents.
The concept of 'Dekiru' in Japanese society
In Japan, 'Dekiru hito' (a capable person) is a common compliment. It reflects a cultural value placed on efficiency and competence.
Word Origin
Derived from 'deru' (to appear/come out) and 'kuru' (to come). It originally meant something emerging or coming into existence.
Cultural Context
The word is central to Japanese life, reflecting the value of 'readiness' (junbi) and 'capability' (noryoku). It is a staple of polite, effective communication in the workplace.
Memory Tip
Think of 'Dekiru' as 'De-kilo' (you can lift 10 kilos). It represents both your strength to do it and the weight you've finished moving.
Frequently Asked Questions
4 questions「出来る」は日常会話で広く使われる動詞ですが、「可能」は名詞や形容動詞として使われる硬い表現です。日常会話では「出来る」を使うのが自然です。
はい。「料理を作る能力がある」という意味と、「料理が完成した」という意味の両方で使われます。文脈で判断します。
「出来ない」です。能力がない場合や、完成していない場合の両方に使われます。
「出来ます」と言います。丁寧な表現として、誰に対しても使えます。
Test Yourself
私はピアノを弾くことが___。
能力を表すため「ことが出来る」の形が必要です。
夕飯が___。
この文脈での「出来る」は料理が完成したことを意味します。
（日本語が / 私は / 出来ます / 話す / こと）
「～を話す」という目的語の助詞に注意しましょう。
Score: /3
Summary
It is a versatile verb used to express both capability and the completion of an object or event.
- Expresses the ability to perform an action.
- Indicates that something has been completed or created.
- Used frequently in daily life for various situations.
Mastering the versatile uses of Dekiru
Try to categorize the usage into 'capability' and 'creation'. This mental model helps you understand the nuance quickly.
Avoid overuse in formal writing
While perfect for speech, use more specific verbs like '作成する' or '可能である' in formal documents.
The concept of 'Dekiru' in Japanese society
In Japan, 'Dekiru hito' (a capable person) is a common compliment. It reflects a cultural value placed on efficiency and competence.
Examples
4 of 4私はテニスが出来ます。
I can play tennis.
会議の準備が出来ました。
The meeting preparation is ready.
新しい友達が出来た。
I made a new friend.
この課題は明日までに出来る。
I can finish this assignment by tomorrow.
Related Content
Related Vocabulary
More general words
能力
A1Nouryoku refers to the mental or physical power, skill, or capacity required to perform a specific task or function. It can describe both innate talent and skills acquired through learning and practice.
異常
A1A word used to describe something that deviates from the normal state, standard, or expected pattern. It often implies a problem, malfunction, or an extraordinary occurrence that requires attention or investigation.
～について
A2About, concerning; indicates topic.
〜について
B1About, concerning; on the subject of.
～ぐらい
A2about, approximately
ぐらい
A2About; approximately; to the extent of.
ごろ
A2About, approximately (time).
うえ
A2At a higher position than.
絶対
B1Absolutely; definitely; never.
絶対に
B1Absolutely; definitely.
