Explanation at your level:
Hello! 続ける (tsuzukeru) is a word that means 'to keep doing something' or 'to not stop'. Imagine you are playing a game, and you want to keep playing. You say you will continue playing. Or if you are drawing a picture, you keep on drawing. It's like saying 'go on!' It's a simple idea: don't stop! You can use it for things you do every day, like eating or sleeping. If you eat and eat and don't stop, you are continuing to eat. It's a very useful word for talking about things that don't end right away.
The Japanese verb 続ける (tsuzukeru) is used when you want to express that an action or a state is ongoing and does not stop. It's the opposite of stopping something. For example, if you are walking and you don't stop, you are continuing to walk. In Japanese, you would say 歩き続ける (aruki tsuzukeru). It can also apply to situations, like a conversation: 会話を続ける (kaiwa o tsuzukeru) means 'to continue the conversation'. You often use the particle 'を' (o) before 続ける to show what is being continued, such as 仕事を続ける (shigoto o tsuzukeru) – 'to continue working'. It's a fundamental verb for describing persistence.
続ける (tsuzukeru) is a versatile verb that means 'to continue', 'to keep on', or 'to carry on'. It signifies the persistence of an action, state, or process. You can use it to talk about continuing a task, like 勉強を続ける (benkyou o tsuzukeru - to continue studying), or maintaining a relationship, like 関係を続ける (kankei o tsuzukeru - to continue a relationship). The structure is typically [Noun] + を + 続ける. It's also common in compound verbs where the stem of another verb is followed by 続ける, like 食べ続ける (tabe tsuzukeru - to keep eating). This form emphasizes the duration or repetition of the action.
The verb 続ける (tsuzukeru) is essential for conveying the concept of continuity and perseverance. It can be used transitively, meaning you are actively causing something to continue (e.g., プロジェクトを続ける - purojekuto o tsuzukeru - to continue the project), or intransitively through its related form 続く (tsuzuku), which means something continues by itself (e.g., 雨が続く - ame ga tsuzuku - the rain continues). When used with the te-form of another verb (Verb-て + 続ける), it highlights the sustained nature of an action, implying it has been happening for some time and is expected to go on. For example, 働き続けている (hataraki tsuzukete iru) means 'has been working continuously'. Understanding this nuance helps in describing ongoing efforts and situations effectively.
In advanced contexts, 続ける (tsuzukeru) carries connotations of endurance, commitment, and the strategic maintenance of a course of action. Beyond simply 'continuing', it can imply a deliberate effort to overcome obstacles or sustain momentum. For instance, in a business context, 経営を続ける (keiei o tsuzukeru) might mean not just keeping the business running, but navigating challenges to ensure its long-term viability. The construction Verb-て + 続ける is particularly powerful, emphasizing a prolonged, often arduous, process. Consider 苦しみを続けさせられる (kurushimi o tsuzukesasrerareru) - 'to be forced to continue suffering', highlighting the passive endurance implied in certain contexts. Its usage often reflects a deeper understanding of persistence and the psychological aspects of maintaining an activity or state.
Mastery of 続ける (tsuzukeru) involves appreciating its subtle semantic layers and idiomatic applications. While its core meaning remains 'to continue', its usage can range from the mundane act of prolonging a simple task to the profound commitment to a life's work or principle. The verb's etymological connection to 続く (tsuzuku - to continue naturally) allows for nuanced distinctions: tsuzuku describes an inherent continuation, while tsuzukeru implies agency and volition. In literary or philosophical discourse, 続ける might be employed to discuss themes of fate, destiny, or the human condition's inherent struggle for perseverance. For example, 運命に抗い続ける (unmei ni aragai tsuzukeru) - 'to continue to fight against fate' – uses the verb to express a profound existential stance. Recognizing these deeper implications is key to a C2-level understanding.
Word in 30 Seconds
- 続ける (tsuzukeru) means 'to continue' or 'to keep on'.
- It's a transitive verb, implying active effort.
- Commonly used with nouns (Noun + を + 続ける) or verb stems (Verb-stem + 続ける).
- Essential for expressing persistence, duration, and ongoing actions.
Hey there! Let's dive into the super useful Japanese verb 続ける (tsuzukeru). Think of it as the go-to word when you want to say something keeps happening or that you're going to keep doing something. It's all about persistence, momentum, and not letting things stop!
Imagine you're running a race, and you don't want to quit – you continue running. Or maybe you're studying for a big exam; you need to keep on studying. That's exactly what 続ける captures! It can apply to physical actions, mental states, or even ongoing situations. It’s a fundamental verb that helps you describe the flow of events and your own determination.
Understanding 続ける is key to grasping how Japanese speakers talk about progress, endurance, and the simple act of not giving up. We'll explore its nuances, how it fits into different sentences, and why it's such a core part of everyday conversation. Get ready to add this powerful verb to your Japanese toolkit!
The verb 続ける (tsuzukeru) has roots that go deep into the Japanese language, stemming from the older verb tsuzuku (続く), which means 'to continue' or 'to be connected'. The '-eru' ending transforms it into a transitive verb, meaning it can take a direct object – you can 'continue' something. So, while tsuzuku describes something that happens on its own (like the rain continuing), tsuzukeru means you are actively making something continue.
Historically, the concept of persistence and continuity has always been important in Japanese culture, reflected in art, craftsmanship, and social practices. This verb embodies that spirit. Think about ancient traditions that have been passed down through generations, or the meticulous craftsmanship seen in Japanese arts – these all speak to the idea of tsuzukeru.
In older Japanese texts, you might find variations or related forms, but the core meaning of 'carrying on' or 'keeping something going' has remained remarkably consistent. It’s a testament to the enduring nature of the word itself, much like the actions it describes!
So, how do we actually use 続ける (tsuzukeru) in a sentence? It's super versatile! You can use it to talk about continuing an action you started, like 勉強を続ける (benkyou o tsuzukeru) – 'to continue studying'. Or you can talk about a state that persists, like 関係を続ける (kankei o tsuzukeru) – 'to continue a relationship'.
It often pairs with nouns indicating an activity or state. Common collocations include 仕事を続ける (shigoto o tsuzukeru) – 'to continue working', 練習を続ける (renshuu o tsuzukeru) – 'to continue practicing', and even 連絡を続ける (renraku o tsuzukeru) – 'to keep in touch'. The particle 'を' (o) is typically used to mark the thing being continued.
In terms of formality, 続ける is a standard verb suitable for most situations, from casual chats with friends to more formal business settings. When speaking casually, you might hear its te-form, 続けて (tsuzukete), used to link actions: 雨が降り続けている (ame ga furi tsuzukete iru) – 'It keeps raining'. It's a workhorse verb that you'll encounter constantly!
While 続ける (tsuzukeru) is a straightforward verb, it appears in expressions that add a bit of flavor. Here are a few:
- 息を続ける (iki o tsuzukeru): Literally 'to continue breathing', this idiom means to hold one's breath, often used in contexts like swimming or diving. Example: 彼は息を続けて長く潜ることができた。 (Kare wa iki o tsuzukete nagaku moguru koto ga dekita. - He was able to hold his breath and dive for a long time.)
- 話を続ける (hanashi o tsuzukeru): This simply means 'to continue talking' or 'to carry on a conversation'. It's used when you want to keep the dialogue flowing. Example: 休憩の後、会議の話を続けることにした。 (Kyuukei no ato, kaigi no hanashi o tsuzukeru koto ni shita. - After the break, we decided to continue the meeting's discussion.)
- 努力を続ける (doryoku o tsuzukeru): This means 'to continue making efforts' or 'to persevere'. It emphasizes ongoing hard work towards a goal. Example: 目標達成のために、努力を続けることが大切だ。 (Mokuhyou tassei no tame ni, doryoku o tsuzukeru koto ga taisetsu da. - To achieve the goal, it's important to continue making efforts.)
- 習慣を続ける (shuukan o tsuzukeru): To continue a habit. This highlights consistency in daily routines or practices. Example: 健康のために、毎朝のジョギングを続けるつもりだ。 (Kenkou no tame ni, maiasa no jogingu o tsuzukeru tsumori da. - For my health, I intend to continue my morning jogging habit.)
- 関係を続ける (kankei o tsuzukeru): To continue a relationship, whether romantic, platonic, or professional. Example: 遠距離恋愛でも、二人は関係を続けている。 (Enkyori ren'ai demo, futari wa kankei o tsuzukete iru. - Even with a long-distance relationship, the two are continuing their relationship.)
These expressions show how 続ける is woven into the fabric of expressing sustained actions and states in Japanese.
Let's break down the grammar and pronunciation of 続ける (tsuzukeru). As a Group 2 verb (ichidan), it conjugates quite predictably. The masu-stem is 続け (tsuzuke), so you get 続けます (tsuzukemasu) for polite present/future, 続けました (tsuzukemashita) for polite past, and 続けない (tsuzukenai) for negative.
Its te-form is 続けて (tsuzukete), which is crucial for linking clauses or forming continuous actions with いる (iru): 食べ続けている (tabe tsuzukete iru) means 'to keep eating'. The potential form is 続けられる (tsuzukerareru), meaning 'can continue'. The volitional form is 続けよう (tsuzukeyou), 'let's continue'.
Pronunciation-wise, つづける (tsuzukeru) is pronounced roughly as 'tsoo-zoo-keh-roo'. The 'tsu' sound is like the start of 'tsunami', and the 'zu' is its voiced counterpart. The 'ke' is like 'keh' in 'kettle', and 'ru' is a light flap, similar to the 'tt' in the American pronunciation of 'butter'.
British English IPA: /tsʊdzʊˈkeɪ.ɹu/
American English IPA: /tsuːdzuˈkeɪ.ɹu/
Common Errors: Some learners might struggle with the clear distinction between 'tsu' and 'zu', or pronounce the 'ru' too strongly. Ensure the stress is relatively even across the syllables, perhaps with a slight emphasis on 'ke'. Rhyming words are tricky due to the specific 'tsuzuke' sound, but words ending in '-eru' like 食べる (taberu) or 見る (miru) share the final sound pattern.
Fun Fact
The distinction between 続く (tsuzuku - intransitive) and 続ける (tsuzukeru - transitive) is crucial in Japanese, reflecting a cultural emphasis on agency and causality. It's like the difference between 'the road continues' (道が続く - michi ga tsuzuku) and 'I will continue the road' (道を続ける - michi o tsuzukeru).
Pronunciation Guide
Sounds like 'tsoo-zoo-keh-roo', with a light flap on the 'r' sound.
Similar to British, with a slightly longer 'oo' sound and a tapped 'r'.
Common Errors
- Pronouncing 'tsu' too strongly.
- Making the 'ru' sound too hard, like in English 'rule'.
- Confusing the voiced 'zu' with the unvoiced 'tsu'.
Rhymes With
Difficulty Rating
Requires understanding of verb conjugations and context.
Needs correct conjugation and particle usage.
Pronunciation and correct verb form are important.
Recognizing the verb in different forms and contexts.
What to Learn Next
Prerequisites
Learn Next
Advanced
Grammar to Know
Verb Conjugation (Group 2/Ichidan)
続ける -> 続けます (tsuzukemasu), 続けた (tsuzuketa), 続けない (tsukukenai)
Te-form Verbs
続ける -> 続けて (tsuzukete)
Using Verb-て + いる for Continuous Actions
働き続けている (hataraki tsuzukete iru) - is working continuously
Examples by Level
I run.
I / run
Simple present tense.
I continue run.
I / continue / run
Using 'continue' with an action.
Keep playing!
Keep / playing!
Imperative mood.
I continue play.
I / continue / play
Verb + action.
Don't stop.
Don't / stop.
Negative imperative.
I continue eat.
I / continue / eat
Continuing an action.
We continue talk.
We / continue / talk
Continuing a conversation.
Please continue.
Please / continue.
Polite request.
I will continue studying.
I / will / continue / studying.
Future continuous.
She continued working until late.
She / continued / working / until / late.
Past continuous.
Let's continue our discussion.
Let's / continue / our / discussion.
Suggesting continuation.
He wants to continue his career here.
He / wants / to / continue / his / career / here.
Infinitive of purpose.
The rain continued all day.
The / rain / continued / all / day.
Past tense of continue.
We decided to continue the project.
We / decided / to / continue / the / project.
Verb + infinitive.
Please continue to be patient.
Please / continue / to / be / patient.
Polite request.
They will continue to live in that house.
They / will / continue / to / live / in / that / house.
Future tense.
She decided to continue her education abroad.
She / decided / to / continue / her / education / abroad.
Using 'continue' with abstract nouns.
He kept on practicing the piano every day.
He / kept on / practicing / the / piano / every day.
Phrasal verb 'keep on' + gerund.
We need to continue this discussion after lunch.
We / need to / continue / this / discussion / after lunch.
Continuing a conversation.
The company aims to continue its growth.
The / company / aims / to / continue / its / growth.
Business context.
Despite the difficulties, they continued their efforts.
Despite / the / difficulties, / they / continued / their / efforts.
Emphasizing perseverance.
I will continue to support your work.
I / will / continue / to / support / your / work.
Expressing ongoing support.
She continued to feel unwell.
She / continued / to / feel / unwell.
Continuing a state of being.
They managed to continue the tradition.
They / managed / to / continue / the / tradition.
Maintaining customs.
He has been working continuously for 10 hours.
He / has been / working / continuously / for / 10 hours.
Present perfect continuous.
The negotiations are expected to continue into the night.
The / negotiations / are / expected / to / continue / into / the night.
Formal context, future expectation.
She decided to continue her research despite funding cuts.
She / decided / to / continue / her / research / despite / funding cuts.
Expressing determination against odds.
We must continue to address these issues.
We / must / continue / to / address / these / issues.
Formal imperative, problem-solving.
The band's popularity continued to grow.
The / band's / popularity / continued / to / grow.
Abstract noun continuation.
He found it difficult to continue the conversation after the awkward silence.
He / found it / difficult / to / continue / the / conversation / after / the / awkward silence.
Nuance of conversational flow.
They are committed to continuing their efforts to improve the environment.
They / are / committed / to / continuing / their / efforts / to / improve / the / environment.
Commitment and ongoing action.
The historical drama continued the story from the previous season.
The / historical drama / continued / the / story / from / the / previous season.
Narrative continuation.
He resolved to continue his ascetic lifestyle, eschewing material possessions.
He / resolved / to / continue / his / ascetic / lifestyle, / eschewing / material / possessions.
Formal vocabulary, deliberate choice.
The company's strategy involves continuing to innovate in a competitive market.
The / company's / strategy / involves / continuing / to / innovate / in / a / competitive / market.
Strategic business context.
She continued to grapple with the ethical implications of her research.
She / continued / to / grapple / with / the / ethical / implications / of / her / research.
Figurative language ('grapple with').
The prolonged drought threatened to continue indefinitely.
The / prolonged / drought / threatened / to / continue / indefinitely.
Formal tone, indefinite duration.
His unwavering dedication allowed him to continue pursuing his artistic vision.
His / unwavering / dedication / allowed / him / to / continue / pursuing / his / artistic / vision.
Emphasis on dedication.
The legal battle continued, draining resources on both sides.
The / legal battle / continued, / draining / resources / on / both / sides.
Consequences of continuation.
They sought ways to continue the cultural heritage for future generations.
They / sought / ways / to / continue / the / cultural / heritage / for / future / generations.
Preservation context.
The political stalemate continued, frustrating the public.
The / political / stalemate / continued, / frustrating / the / public.
Socio-political context.
He resolved to continue his stoic forbearance in the face of adversity.
He / resolved / to / continue / his / stoic / forbearance / in / the / face / of / adversity.
Elevated vocabulary, philosophical tone.
The philosophical inquiry necessitates continuing to question fundamental assumptions.
The / philosophical / inquiry / necessitates / continuing / to / question / fundamental / assumptions.
Academic/philosophical register.
Her legacy is defined by her relentless pursuit to continue advancing human knowledge.
Her / legacy / is / defined / by / her / relentless / pursuit / to / continue / advancing / human / knowledge.
Focus on legacy and impact.
The cyclical nature of history suggests that certain patterns will continue to re-emerge.
The / cyclical / nature / of / history / suggests / that / certain / patterns / will / continue / to / re-emerge.
Historical and theoretical context.
In the realm of quantum physics, the observer effect continues to be a subject of intense debate.
In / the / realm / of / quantum / physics, / the / observer / effect / continues / to / be / a / subject / of / intense / debate.
Specialized scientific terminology.
The artist's oeuvre is characterized by a persistent continuation of thematic exploration.
The / artist's / oeuvre / is / characterized / by / a / persistent / continuation / of / thematic / exploration.
Art criticism terminology.
He chose to continue his solitary existence, finding solace in introspection.
He / chose / to / continue / his / solitary / existence, / finding / solace / in / introspection.
Literary, psychological depth.
The enduring quest to continue understanding the universe drives scientific endeavor.
The / enduring / quest / to / continue / understanding / the / universe / drives / scientific / endeavor.
Grand scale, abstract concepts.
Common Collocations
Idioms & Expressions
"息を続ける"
To hold one's breath.
彼は息を続けて長く潜ることができた。
neutral"歩みを続ける"
To continue one's journey or progress (often metaphorical).
困難があっても、彼は歩みを続けた。
neutral"悪戦苦闘を続ける"
To continue to struggle hard against difficulties.
そのチームは悪戦苦闘を続けたが、ついに勝利した。
formal"火に油を注ぎ続ける"
To keep making a bad situation worse (lit. 'to keep pouring oil on fire').
彼の無責任な発言は、事態を悪化させ続けるだけだった。
neutral"眠らずに続ける"
To continue without sleeping; to pull an all-nighter.
締め切り前日、彼は眠らずにレポートを書き続けた。
neutralEasily Confused
Both mean 'to continue'.
続く is intransitive (happens on its own), while 続ける is transitive (done actively by someone). Ex: 雨が続く (Rain continues) vs. 勉強を続ける (I continue studying).
The meeting continued. (会議が続いた - kaigi ga tsuzuita) vs. I continued the meeting. (会議を続けた - kaigi o tsuzuketa)
It's the direct opposite.
やめる means 'to stop' or 'to quit', while 続ける means 'to keep going'.
I will continue working. (仕事を続ける - shigoto o tsuzukeru) vs. I will stop working. (仕事をやめる - shigoto o yameru)
Both can imply maintaining something.
保つ often means 'to maintain' a state, condition, or possession (e.g., 体重を保つ - maintain weight). 続ける is more about the ongoing action or process itself.
He maintained his calm. (彼は冷静を保った - Kare wa reisei o tamotta) vs. He continued to be calm. (彼は冷静でい続けた - Kare wa reisei de i tsuzuketa)
It uses 続ける as a suffix.
持ち続ける specifically means 'to continue to hold' or 'to keep possessing'. It's a compound verb focusing on holding.
I want to keep this memory. (この記憶を持ち続けたい - Kono kioku o mochi tsuzuketai) vs. I will continue my studies. (勉強を続ける - Benkyou o tsuzukeru)
Sentence Patterns
Noun + を + 続ける
彼は仕事を続けた。
Verb (stem) + 続ける
雨が降り続ける。
Verb-て + 続けている
彼女は３時間も話し続けている。
Noun + を + 続ける + こと + が + できる/難しい/大切だ
このペースで勉強を続けることが難しい。
〜続ける +Noun (as modifier)
働き続ける人々 (hataraki tsuzukeru hitobito - people who continue to work)
Word Family
Nouns
Verbs
Related
How to Use It
Formality Scale
Common Mistakes
続ける implies an active effort to keep something going. If something continues on its own, like the rain, 続く is more appropriate.
These are direct antonyms. Ensure you choose the correct verb based on whether the action is ongoing or ending.
For example, 仕事を続ける (shigoto o tsuzukeru), not 仕事が続ける.
Simply saying 食べ続ける (tabe tsuzukeru) can imply a single instance of continuing to eat, whereas 食べ続けている (tabe tsuzukete iru) emphasizes the ongoing nature.
Conjugations like 続けらない (tsuzukerarenai) instead of 続けられない (tsuzukerarenai) are incorrect.
Tips
Sound Association
Link 'tsu-zu-ke-ru' to 'Too Zoo Keeper Rule'. Imagine a dedicated zoo keeper who tirelessly manages the zoo, making sure everything continues smoothly day after day.
Active vs. Passive Continuation
Remember 続ける implies active effort. If something just happens on its own (like weather), use 続く (tsuzuku). Think: 'I continue' (tsuzukeru) vs. 'It continues' (tsuzuku).
The Value of Perseverance
Japanese culture often values endurance (我慢 - gaman) and continuous effort. Understanding 続ける helps appreciate this cultural aspect.
Te-form + 続ける
Mastering Verb-て + 続ける (e.g., 働き続ける - hataraki tsuzukeru) is key to describing sustained actions. Practice forming this structure!
Light 'R' Sound
The Japanese 'r' sound is often a light flap, similar to the 'tt' in 'butter' (American English). Avoid a hard English 'r'.
Don't Forget 'O'
When continuing a noun (like 'work' or 'study'), remember to use the particle を (o) before 続ける: 仕事を続ける (shigoto o tsuzukeru).
Transitive Power
The '-keru' ending transforms an intransitive idea ('continue') into a transitive one ('to make continue'), giving you the power to direct the action!
Contextual Learning
Instead of just memorizing the verb, find songs, movie scenes, or articles where 続ける is used. Seeing it in action makes it stick.
Future Focus with いく
Adding いく (iku) to the te-form, like 続けていく (tsuzukete iku), adds a nuance of 'going on into the future', useful for long-term plans.
Noun Form: 継続
For more formal situations, remember the noun form 継続 (keizoku). You can say 継続する (keizoku suru) which means 'to continue'.
Memorize It
Mnemonic
Think of 'Tsu-zu-ke-ru' sounding like 'Too, zoo, keeper, rule'. Imagine a zoo keeper who has to *rule* (manage) the zoo and *keep* things going *too* (also) without stopping!
Visual Association
Picture a long, winding road that goes on and on, with a signpost saying 'Tsu-zu-ke-ru'.
Word Web
Challenge
Try describing 3 things you did today that you will <strong>tsuzukeru</strong> tomorrow.
Word Origin
Japanese
Original meaning: Derived from the intransitive verb 続く (tsuzuku), meaning 'to continue' or 'to be connected'. The suffix -ける (-keru) makes it a transitive verb, meaning 'to cause to continue'.
Cultural Context
Generally no cultural sensitivity issues. It's a neutral verb applicable in most contexts.
In English, we have many words like 'continue', 'keep on', 'carry on', 'persist', 'sustain'. The Japanese verb 続ける often covers these nuances depending on context.
Practice in Real Life
Real-World Contexts
At Work/Study
- 仕事を続ける (shigoto o tsuzukeru) - to continue working
- 勉強を続ける (benkyou o tsuzukeru) - to continue studying
- プロジェクトを続ける (purojekuto o tsuzukeru) - to continue the project
Personal Goals
- ダイエットを続ける (daietto o tsuzukeru) - to continue dieting
- 運動を続ける (undou o tsuzukeru) - to continue exercising
- 努力を続ける (doryoku o tsuzukeru) - to continue making efforts
Relationships
- 連絡を続ける (renraku o tsuzukeru) - to keep in touch
- 関係を続ける (kankei o tsuzukeru) - to continue a relationship
- 友情を続ける (yuujou o tsuzukeru) - to continue a friendship
Describing Ongoing Situations
- 雨が降り続ける (ame ga furi tsuzukeru) - it keeps raining
- 渋滞が続く (juutai ga tsuzuku) - traffic continues (use 続く here)
- 静かに続ける (shizuka ni tsuzukeru) - to continue quietly
Conversation Starters
"What's something you've been trying to 続ける (tsuzukeru) lately?"
"How do you 続ける (tsuzukeru) motivation when working on a long project?"
"Can you think of a time when you had to 続ける (tsuzukeru) something difficult?"
"What are some good habits you want to 続ける (tsuzukeru) in the future?"
"If you could 続ける (tsuzukeru) anything without getting tired, what would it be?"
Journal Prompts
Write about a skill you are working to 続ける (tsuzukeru). What challenges do you face?
Describe a time you successfully 続けた (tsuzuketa - continued) something important despite obstacles.
What are your goals for the next year? How will you 続ける (tsuzukeru) your efforts to achieve them?
Reflect on a relationship you want to 続ける (tsuzukeru). What actions can you take?
Frequently Asked Questions
8 questions続ける (tsuzukeru) is transitive, meaning someone or something actively causes an action to continue (e.g., 'I continue studying'). 続く (tsuzuku) is intransitive, meaning something continues on its own (e.g., 'The rain continues').
You can use the structure Verb (stem) + 続ける (tsuzukeru), like 食べ続ける (tabe tsuzukeru - to keep eating), or use the te-form + 続けている (tsuzukete iru) for ongoing actions, like 食べ続けている (tabe tsuzukete iru - is/has been keeping on eating).
Yes, absolutely. You can say 関係を続ける (kankei o tsuzukeru) for 'to continue a relationship'.
No, 続ける is a Group 2 (ichidan) verb, which means its conjugations are very regular and generally easier to learn than Group 1 (godan) verbs.
The most common antonyms are 止める (yameru - to stop, quit) and やめる (yameru - to quit, stop). A temporary stop is a 休憩 (kyuukei - break) or 一時停止 (ichiji teishi - temporary stop).
It's extremely common and fundamental to expressing the idea of persistence and ongoing actions in Japanese.
Yes, the past tense is 続けた (tsuzuketa) for plain form and 続けました (tsuzukemashita) for polite form. For example, 彼は勉強を続けた (Kare wa benkyou o tsuzuketa - He continued studying).
続けていく (tsuzukete iku) adds the verb いく (iku - to go), emphasizing the continuation into the future or moving forward with the action. It often implies a longer-term perspective.
Test Yourself
I will ______ playing the game.
The sentence indicates the action of playing will not end.
Which Japanese word means 'to continue'?
つづける (tsuzukeru) is the verb for 'to continue'.
The verb 続ける (tsuzukeru) is used for actions that happen naturally without any effort.
続ける implies an active effort or volition to keep something going. For natural continuation, 続く (tsuzuku) is used.
Word
Meaning
These are common collocations showing how 続ける is used with different nouns.
The correct sentence is '努力を続けることが大切です' (Doryoku o tsuzukeru koto ga taisetsu desu), meaning 'Continuing efforts is important'.
Please ______ your seat.
In this context, 'continue your seat' means to remain seated.
Which phrase means 'to keep eating'?
食べ続ける combines the verb stem 'tabe-' with 'tsuzukeru' to mean 'to continue eating'.
The phrase '雨が降り続ける' (ame ga furi tsuzukeru) describes rain that has stopped.
降り続ける means the rain is continuing to fall.
The sentence is '彼女は海外で勉強を続けることを決めた' (Kanojo wa kaigai de benkyou o tsuzukeru koto o kimeta), meaning 'She decided to continue her studies abroad'.
Despite facing numerous setbacks, the team was determined to ______ their project.
The context implies persistence through difficulties, making 'continue' the most fitting word.
Score: /10
Summary
Master 続ける to express your determination and the flow of actions in Japanese!
- 続ける (tsuzukeru) means 'to continue' or 'to keep on'.
- It's a transitive verb, implying active effort.
- Commonly used with nouns (Noun + を + 続ける) or verb stems (Verb-stem + 続ける).
- Essential for expressing persistence, duration, and ongoing actions.
Sound Association
Link 'tsu-zu-ke-ru' to 'Too Zoo Keeper Rule'. Imagine a dedicated zoo keeper who tirelessly manages the zoo, making sure everything continues smoothly day after day.
Active vs. Passive Continuation
Remember 続ける implies active effort. If something just happens on its own (like weather), use 続く (tsuzuku). Think: 'I continue' (tsuzukeru) vs. 'It continues' (tsuzuku).
The Value of Perseverance
Japanese culture often values endurance (我慢 - gaman) and continuous effort. Understanding 続ける helps appreciate this cultural aspect.
Te-form + 続ける
Mastering Verb-て + 続ける (e.g., 働き続ける - hataraki tsuzukeru) is key to describing sustained actions. Practice forming this structure!
Related Content
This Word in Other Languages
Related Grammar Rules
Related Phrases
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.
