〜ずつ
It means 'each' or 'one at a time', showing how something is divided or done in small, equal parts.
Explanation at your level:
Hello! '〜ずつ' (zutsu) is a small word that means 'one by one' or 'each'. Imagine you have 3 cookies and you give one cookie to each of your 3 friends. You give them one cookie at a time. That's '〜ずつ'. It helps us count things fairly or do things slowly and carefully. Like '一人ずつ' (hitori zutsu) means 'one person at a time'. It’s a simple way to show how you share or do something step-by-step.
The Japanese particle '〜ずつ' (zutsu) is used to show that something is done in small, equal amounts or one after another. Think about sharing sweets: you give them out '〜ずつ' so everyone gets the same number. A very common phrase is '少しずつ' (sukoshi zutsu), meaning 'little by little'. This is useful when you talk about making progress slowly, like learning Japanese! For example, '毎日少しずつ勉強します' means 'I study a little bit every day'.
'〜ずつ' (zutsu) is a versatile particle that indicates division into equal parts, distribution, or gradual progression. It's often used with numbers to specify how items are given out or counted, such as '一人ずつ' (hitori zutsu - one person at a time). It's also crucial for describing processes that happen incrementally, like '少しずつ' (sukoshi zutsu - little by little). Understanding '〜ずつ' helps you express concepts of fairness, steady effort, and methodical action in your Japanese communication.
The Japanese particle '〜ずつ' (zutsu) adds a layer of nuance to expressions involving quantity and progression. It signifies division into discrete, often equal, units or a sequential, step-by-step manner. Beyond simple distribution ('一人ずつ'), it's integral to describing gradual development ('少しずつ') or methodical action ('一歩ずつ' - one step at a time). Recognizing its usage allows for more precise communication regarding rates of change, fairness in distribution, and the deliberate nature of actions, differentiating it from more general adverbs.
'〜ずつ' (zutsu) functions as an adverbial particle, denoting a mode of action or distribution characterized by discrete, equal, or sequential units. Its semantic contribution lies in emphasizing the methodical, gradual, or fair nature of an event. While '少しずつ' (sukoshi zutsu) is a common collocation for gradual change, '〜ずつ' can be applied to various contexts, from distributing resources equally to describing incremental progress in skills or understanding. Mastery involves recognizing its subtle implications of control, patience, and equity in the speaker's intent.
The particle '〜ずつ' (zutsu) embodies a concept of discrete, often equitable, distribution or sequential progression. Its etymological connection to separation and portioning informs its usage in modern Japanese, where it modifies actions or quantities to highlight their methodical, gradual, or individualistic nature. Its application extends beyond literal counting to abstract concepts of development and learning, serving as a linguistic marker for deliberate pacing and fairness. Understanding '〜ずつ' offers insight into cultural values of order, equity, and patience in Japanese society.
Word in 30 Seconds
- 〜ずつ means 'each' or 'one at a time'.
- Used for equal distribution or gradual progress.
- Commonly follows numbers or quantifiers.
- Key phrases: 少しずつ, 一人ずつ, 一歩ずつ.
Hey there! Let's dive into the awesome Japanese particle '〜ずつ' (zutsu). It's a super useful little word that helps us talk about how things are done in small, equal steps or one by one. Think of it like a gentle rhythm or a fair share. It’s not just about numbers; it’s about the *way* something is done – steadily, equally, and bit by bit.
When you see '〜ずつ', it often pops up when you're dividing things up, counting, or describing a process that happens gradually. It’s like saying 'each' or 'at a time'. For example, if you're giving out snacks, you might give them out '〜ずつ' to make sure everyone gets the same amount. Or if you're learning something new, you might learn it '〜ずつ', taking it step by step. It adds a sense of order and fairness to actions and quantities.
The particle '〜ずつ' (zutsu) has roots in older Japanese grammar, evolving from expressions that indicated division or separation. Its core meaning relates to 'separating' or 'portioning out'. Historically, similar particles or grammatical structures were used to denote a distribution of items or a progression of actions in distinct units.
While tracing the exact etymological journey can be complex, the function of '〜ずつ' is consistent with a desire to express gradualness and equality. It’s thought to be related to older terms that meant 'separately' or 'individually'. Over time, it solidified into the common particle we use today, adding nuance to how we describe quantities and actions in Japanese, making it a fundamental part of expressing methodical processes.
You'll find '〜ずつ' used in many everyday situations! It's incredibly versatile. A common use is with numbers to show distribution: '一人ずつ' (hitori zutsu) means 'one person at a time' or 'each person'. This is perfect for queues or when handing out items.
It's also used to describe gradual progress or change. For instance, '少しずつ' (sukoshi zutsu) means 'little by little' or 'gradually'. This applies to learning a language, recovering from an illness, or saving money. You can also use it with verbs to show an action done in stages: '毎日少しずつ勉強します' (Mainichi sukoshi zutsu benkyou shimasu) - 'I study a little bit every day'. Remember, it usually follows a noun, pronoun, or adjective indicating the unit or the amount.
While '〜ずつ' isn't typically part of fixed idioms in the same way some other words are, its core meaning of 'gradual' or 'one by one' is embedded in many common phrases. These phrases highlight its importance in expressing steady progress and fair distribution.
- 少しずつ (sukoshi zutsu): This is perhaps the most common phrase. It means 'little by little' or 'gradually'. It's used to describe any process that happens slowly over time. Example: 日本語が少しずつ上手になりました。(Nihongo ga sukoshi zutsu jouzu ni narimashita.) - 'My Japanese has gradually become better.'
- 一人ずつ (hitori zutsu): Meaning 'one person at a time' or 'each person'. Essential for managing groups or ensuring individual attention. Example: 先生は一人ずつ生徒に話しかけました。(Sensei wa hitori zutsu seito ni hanashikakemashita.) - 'The teacher spoke to each student one by one.'
- 一歩ずつ (ippo zutsu): Literally 'one step at a time'. This emphasizes steady, deliberate progress towards a goal. Example: 目標に向かって一歩ずつ進みましょう。(Mokuhyou ni mukatte ippo zutsu susumimashou.) - 'Let's move towards our goal one step at a time.'
- 順番ずつ (junban zutsu): While less common on its own, it implies going in order, one after another. Often seen in contexts like '順番に' (junban ni - in order).
- 皆ずつ (minna zutsu): Similar to '一人ずつ', meaning 'everyone gets one' or 'each person gets'. It stresses equal distribution to all. Example: お菓子を皆ずつ配りました。(Okashi o minna zutsu kubarimashita.) - 'We distributed the sweets, giving one to everyone.'
'〜ずつ' functions primarily as an adverbial particle. It attaches directly to nouns (often numbers or quantifiers) or sometimes to adjective stems to modify verbs or the entire clause. It doesn't change form for pluralization or tense; its meaning is inherent.
Pronunciation: The pronunciation is straightforward: 'zoo-tsu'. The 'tsu' sound is similar to the 'ts' in 'cats'. In standard Japanese, there isn't a significant stress pattern like in English. It's a relatively flat pronunciation.
Common Patterns:
- Number + ずつ (e.g., 一人ずつ - hitori zutsu, 二つずつ - futatsu zutsu)
- Adjective stem + ずつ (e.g., 少しずつ - sukoshi zutsu, ゆっくりずつ - yukkuri zutsu)
- Often used with verbs indicating distribution (配る - kubaru, 分ける - wakeru) or progression (進む - susumu, 勉強する - benkyou suru).
IPA (Approximation): /d͡zɯᵝt͡sɯᵝ/
Fun Fact
The particle '〜ずつ' evolved from older grammatical forms that emphasized dividing things into distinct parts or proceeding in a step-by-step manner, reflecting an ancient need to quantify and describe actions precisely.
Pronunciation Guide
Sounds like 'dzu-tsu', with the 'dz' sound similar to the start of 'adze' and the 'tsu' like the end of 'cats'.
Similar to UK, pronounced 'dzu-tsu'. The vowel sound in 'tsu' can be slightly shorter.
Common Errors
- Pronouncing 'tsu' too softly, making it sound like 'su'.
- Adding an unnecessary vowel sound after 'tsu'.
- Incorrectly stressing the syllable; it's relatively flat.
Rhymes With
Difficulty Rating
Easy to recognize, understanding nuance takes practice.
Relatively easy to use correctly in common contexts.
Commonly used, pronunciation is straightforward.
Easily identifiable in spoken Japanese.
What to Learn Next
Prerequisites
Learn Next
Advanced
Grammar to Know
Counters in Japanese
一人 (hitori - one person), 二つ (futatsu - two items)
Adverbial Particles
Particles that modify verbs to describe manner, degree, or time.
Expressing Gradual Change
Using phrases like 少しずつ, だんだん (dandan).
Examples by Level
お菓子を一つずつください。
Sweets (object) one (counter) each please give.
〜ずつ indicates 'one at a time' or 'each'.
一人ずつ名前を呼びます。
One person each name will call.
一人ずつ means 'one person at a time'.
ゆっくりずつ歩きましょう。
Slowly little by little let's walk.
ゆっくりずつ means 'slowly, little by little'.
これを二つずつ取ってください。
This (object) two each please take.
〜ずつ shows how many each person gets.
少しずつ、寒くなりました。
Little by little cold became.
少しずつ means 'gradually'.
みんなで一つずつ分けましょう。
Everyone together one each let's divide.
〜ずつ emphasizes equal sharing.
本を三冊ずつ買いました。
Books three volumes each bought.
〜ずつ indicates the quantity per person or instance.
毎日少しずつ練習します。
Every day little by little practice will do.
Shows consistent, small efforts.
この薬は一日三回、一回につき二錠ずつ飲んでください。
This medicine (topic) one day three times, one time per two pills each drink please.
〜ずつ specifies the dosage per intake.
新しい単語を毎日少しずつ覚えています。
New vocabulary (object) every day little by little am remembering.
Describes gradual learning.
先生が一人ずつ質問に答えてくれました。
Teacher (subject) one person at a time questions to answered.
Emphasizes individual attention.
この料理は材料を少しずつ加えていくのがコツです。
This dish (topic) ingredients (object) little by little adding is the trick.
Describes a gradual cooking process.
子供たちは順番ずつおもちゃで遊びました。
Children (topic) in order each toy with played.
Indicates taking turns sequentially.
貯金は毎月少しずつ増やしています。
Savings (topic) every month little by little am increasing.
Shows gradual accumulation.
このキットには部品が一つずつ入っています。
This kit (topic) parts (object) one by one are included.
Highlights individual packaging.
目標達成のため、一歩ずつ着実に進むことが大切です。
Goal achievement for, one step at a time steadily to proceed is important.
Emphasizes steady progress towards a goal.
この新しいソフトウェアは、ユーザーが少しずつ慣れていくように設計されています。
This new software (topic) users (subject) little by little get used to (in order) is designed.
Describes a gradual adaptation process.
会議では、各部署から一人ずつ意見を発表しました。
Meeting (topic) each department from one person at a time opinions announced.
Ensures each group has a voice.
彼は、失った自信を少しずつ取り戻していった。
He (subject) lost confidence (object) little by little regaining went.
Illustrates gradual recovery of a psychological state.
このパズルはピースが小さく、一つずつ組み立てるのに時間がかかります。
This puzzle (topic) pieces (subject) small, one by one assemble to time takes.
Highlights the meticulous nature of assembly.
成功への道は、一歩ずつ着実に進むことで開かれる。
Success towards path (topic) one step at a time steadily by proceeding by opens.
Metaphorical use for achieving success.
お祭りの景品は、一人ずつに平等に配られました。
Festival prizes (topic) one person at a time equally were distributed.
Emphasizes equitable distribution.
新しいスキルを習得するには、毎日少しずつ練習することが不可欠だ。
New skills to acquire, every day little by little practicing is essential.
Stresses the importance of consistent practice.
このプロジェクトは段階的に進められており、各フェーズで少しずつ成果が見られます。
This project (topic) in stages is being advanced, each phase at little by little results are seen.
Describes phased development and results.
彼のスピーチは、聴衆の理解を促すために、一つ一つの論点を丁寧に解説する構成になっていた。
His speech (topic) audience's understanding to encourage for, one by one points carefully explain structure became.
Describes a deliberate, step-by-step explanation strategy.
経済状況の改善は、一朝一夕にはいかず、国民は少しずつ生活の向上を実感している。
Economic situation's improvement (topic) overnight not happens, citizens (subject) little by little life's improvement are realizing.
Highlights gradual improvement over time.
その大学では、留学生一人ずつに担当のチューターがつき、学習面でのサポートを行っている。
That university (topic) international students one person at a time assigned tutor attaches, academic aspect support is being provided.
Illustrates personalized support systems.
人生という長い旅路では、時に立ち止まり、一歩ずつ着実に進む勇気が必要とされる。
Life called long journey (topic) sometimes stop, one step at a time steadily advance courage is needed.
Metaphorical use emphasizing thoughtful progression.
この伝統工芸は、熟練した職人が何年もの歳月をかけ、一つ一つの部品を丹念に作り上げている。
This traditional craft (topic) skilled artisans many years' time taking, one by one parts meticulously are creating.
Emphasizes the meticulous, piece-by-piece creation process.
新しい政策の効果は、まだ顕著ではないが、社会全体として少しずつ変化の兆しが見え始めている。
New policy's effects (topic) still not prominent, but society as a whole little by little change's signs are starting to be seen.
Describes the nascent stages of societal change.
彼は、長年の夢であった独立を果たすために、リスクを管理しながら一歩ずつ事業を拡大してきた。
He (subject) long-held dream was independence to achieve for, risks managing while one step at a time business expanded.
Shows calculated, incremental business growth.
この教育プログラムは、学習者の進捗状況を個別に把握し、それぞれに合ったペースで少しずつ知識を深めていくことを目指している。
This educational program (topic) learners' progress individually grasping, each suitable pace little by little knowledge deepen aims.
Focuses on personalized, gradual knowledge acquisition.
その芸術家の作品は、鑑賞者に一つ一つの要素を吟味させ、多層的な意味合いを読み解くことを促す。
That artist's works (topic) viewers one by one elements carefully examine cause multi-layered meanings decipher encourage.
Highlights the analytical engagement required by the artwork.
社会変革のプロセスは、しばしば予期せぬ障害に直面するが、粘り強く一歩ずつ進むことで、最終的な目標に到達することができる。
Social change's process (topic) often unexpected obstacles faces, but persistently one step at a time advancing by, final goal reach can do.
Emphasizes perseverance through challenges.
彼は、組織内のコンセンサス形成を急がず、関係者一人ずつと対話を重ねることで、着実に合意形成を図った。
He (subject) within the organization consensus building hurrying not, stakeholders one person at a time dialogue repeating by, steadily agreement formation sought.
Illustrates a patient, individual-focused approach to leadership.
この古典文学の翻訳は、原文の持つニュアンスを損なわないよう、一語一語、あるいは一文一文に細心の注意を払って進められた。
This classical literature's translation (topic) original text's held nuances not damagingly, one word one word, or one sentence one sentence meticulous attention paying advanced.
Stresses extreme precision in translation.
長引く不況下において、企業は生き残りをかけて、コスト削減や業務効率化を少しずつ進める経営戦略を余儀なくされている。
Prolonged recession under, companies survival for, cost reduction and operational efficiency little by little advancing management strategies are forced.
Describes strategic, incremental adjustments in business.
その作曲家は、楽曲の構成要素を一つずつ丁寧に積み上げ、聴く者の感情に深く訴えかけるハーモニーを創造した。
That composer (subject) musical piece's structural elements one by one carefully piling up, listeners' emotions deeply appeal harmony created.
Highlights the deliberate construction of artistic elements.
地域社会の活性化は、トップダウンの施策だけでなく、住民一人ひとりの主体的な参加と協力があって初めて、少しずつ実現していくものである。
Local community's revitalization (topic) top-down measures not only, residents each person's proactive participation and cooperation exists only then, little by little realized becomes.
Emphasizes bottom-up, incremental community development.
彼は、自身の専門知識を体系化し、それを次世代の研究者たちに一歩ずつ伝承していくことを生涯の使命と考えている。
He (subject) his own specialized knowledge systematizing, it next-generation researchers to one step at a time passing down lifelong mission considering.
Focuses on the methodical transfer of knowledge.
その哲学者によれば、真理の探求とは、一度に全てを理解しようとするのではなく、一つ一つの概念を徹底的に解剖し、その本質に迫る地道な作業の連続である。
That philosopher according to, truth's pursuit (topic) all at once understand trying not, one by one concepts thoroughly dissecting, their essence approaching arduous work's continuum is.
Philosophical discourse on the nature of truth-seeking.
歴史の歯車は、時に劇的な転換点を経るが、その多くは、個々人の地道な努力や、社会の深層におけるゆっくりとした変化が積み重なった結果として、徐々に進行するものである。
History's gears (topic) sometimes dramatic turning points pass through, but their majority (subject) individuals' arduous efforts, and society's deep layers gradual changes accumulated result as, gradually progresses.
Academic perspective on historical progression.
現代の教育現場においては、画一的な知識伝達に終始するのではなく、学習者一人ひとりの個性や潜在能力を最大限に引き出すための、個別最適化されたアプローチが求められている。
Modern education sites (topic) uniform knowledge transmission ending not, learners each person's individuality and potential abilities maximally drawing out for, individually optimized approach is being sought.
Critique of educational paradigms and advocacy for personalized learning.
その批評家は、文学作品の解釈において、作者の意図や時代背景といったマクロな視点だけでなく、文章の細部に宿るミクロな表現にまで踏み込み、一つ一つの言葉遣いの意味合いを丹念に分析した。
That critic (subject) literary works' interpretation (topic) author's intent and historical background like macro perspective not only, text's minute details reside micro expressions even delving, one by one word usage's meaning meticulously analyzed.
Literary criticism focusing on micro-analysis.
グローバル化が進む現代社会においても、地域文化の独自性は、外部からの影響を完全に排除するのではなく、それらを内包しつつ、各地域が主体的に、少しずつ自己のアイデンティティを再構築していくプロセスが重要となる。
Globalization advancing modern society even in, regional culture's uniqueness (topic) external influences completely excluding not, those internalizing while, each region proactively, little by little its own identity reconstruct process becomes important.
Sociological analysis of cultural adaptation.
この複雑なシステム設計においては、単一の解決策に依存するのではなく、潜在的なリスクを考慮し、各モジュールを独立させ、一つずつ検証していくアプローチが不可欠である。
This complex system design (topic) single solution relying not, potential risks considering, each module independently making, one by one verifying approach is essential.
Engineering principle of modularity and incremental testing.
彼の音楽的探求は、既存のジャンルにとらわれず、様々な音楽的要素を実験的に組み合わせ、一つ一つの音符に独自の意味を付与していくことで、前例のないサウンドスケープを創り出している。
His musical exploration (topic) existing genres by bound not, various musical elements experimentally combining, one by one notes unique meaning bestowing by, unprecedented soundscape is creating.
Artistic commentary on innovation through meticulous construction.
持続可能な社会の実現に向けた取り組みは、短期間での劇的な変化を期待するのではなく、市民一人ひとりが日々の生活の中で意識を少しずつ変容させ、行動を積み重ねていく地道な努力の総体として捉えるべきである。
Sustainable society's realization towards efforts (topic) short term dramatic change expecting not, citizens each person daily life within awareness little by little transforming, actions accumulating arduous efforts' entirety as should be viewed.
Ethical and societal perspective on gradual, collective change.
Common Collocations
Idioms & Expressions
"少しずつ (sukoshi zutsu)"
Little by little; gradually.
日本語の勉強は少しずつ進んでいます。
neutral"一歩ずつ (ippo zutsu)"
One step at a time; steadily.
人生は一歩ずつ進むものです。
neutral"一人ずつ (hitori zutsu)"
One person at a time; each person.
順番に一人ずつ話してください。
neutral"ゆっくりずつ (yukkuri zutsu)"
Slowly and gradually.
新しいことを学ぶときは、ゆっくりずつでいいですよ。
neutral"皆ずつ (minna zutsu)"
Everyone gets one; distributed equally to all.
お菓子を皆ずつ配りました。
neutral"毎日少しずつ (mainichi sukoshi zutsu)"
A little bit every day.
健康のために、毎日少しずつ運動しています。
neutralEasily Confused
Both can follow numbers or nouns, but their meaning is different.
〜だけ means 'only' or 'just' (limitation). 〜ずつ means 'each' or 'one at a time' (distribution/manner). Example: '一人だけ' (only one person) vs '一人ずつ' (one person at a time).
一人だけ来ました。(Only one person came.) vs 一人ずつ来てください。(Please come one by one.)
Counters like 〜個 are often used before 〜ずつ.
〜個 is a counter for items. 〜ずつ specifies how those items are distributed or handled. Example: 'リンゴを三つ' (three apples) vs 'リンゴを三つずつ' (three apples each).
箱にリンゴが三つ入っています。(There are three apples in the box.) vs 箱からリンゴを三つずつ取ってください。(Please take three apples each from the box.)
Both relate to frequency or quantity.
〜回 means 'times' (frequency). 〜ずつ specifies quantity per instance. Example: '一日三回' (three times a day) vs '一日三錠ずつ' (three pills each time/day).
この薬は一日三回飲んでください。(Please take this medicine three times a day.) vs この薬は一日三回、一回につき二錠ずつ飲んでください。(Please take two pills each time, three times a day.)
Both can indicate repetition or sequence.
〜度に means 'every time' or 'each time' something happens, often followed by a result. 〜ずつ describes the manner of action or distribution itself. Example: '行く度に美味しいものを食べる' (Every time I go, I eat something delicious) vs '一人ずつ名前を呼ぶ' (Call names one by one).
行く度に新しい発見があります。(Every time I go, there are new discoveries.) vs 順番ずつやりましょう。(Let's do it in order, one after another.)
Sentence Patterns
Noun (Number/Counter) + ずつ + Verb
一人ずつ席に着いてください。
Adjective (stem) + ずつ + Verb
少しずつ日本語が上手になりました。
Noun + を + Noun + ずつ + Verb (Distribute)
先生が生徒にプリントを一枚ずつ配りました。
Noun + は/が + Adverbial Phrase (e.g. 少しずつ) + Verb
彼の状態は少しずつ良くなっています。
Noun (Counter) + ずつ + Verb (Measure/Quantity)
この箱にはお菓子が五つずつ入っています。
Word Family
Related
How to Use It
Formality Scale
Common Mistakes
〜ずつ specifies distribution per individual or unit. Saying '一人で配ってください' (Please distribute by yourself) has a different meaning.
〜回 indicates frequency, while 〜ずつ indicates quantity per instance. For example, '一日三錠ずつ' means 'three pills each time'.
〜ずつ implies individual or sequential action. '一緒に' (issho ni - together) implies simultaneity.
〜ずつ typically needs a preceding noun (like a number or quantifier) to specify what is being divided or done sequentially.
While '少しずつ' is common, sometimes simple past tense or other expressions convey gradual improvement without needing 〜ずつ.
Tips
Visualize Distribution
Imagine a teacher handing out identical pencils, one to each student. Picture the 'tsu' sound coming out with each pencil.
Think 'Fair Share' or 'Steady Pace'
When you see 〜ずつ, think about either sharing things equally or doing something in a steady, non-rushed manner.
Order and Equity
The use of 〜ずつ reflects a cultural appreciation for order, fairness, and methodical approaches in Japanese society.
The 'Unit' Rule
〜ずつ usually follows a word that defines the unit: 'one person', 'two items', 'a little bit', 'one step'.
Practice the 'tsu'
Make sure to pronounce the 'tsu' clearly, like the end of 'cats'. Avoid making it sound like 'su'.
Avoid 'All at Once'
Remember 〜ずつ is the opposite of doing things 'all at once'. Use it when actions are divided or sequential.
Beyond Numbers
While often used with numbers, 〜ずつ can describe abstract progress like learning or recovery, showing its flexibility.
Create Your Own Examples
Describe daily routines using 〜ずつ: 'I drink water two cups ずつ every morning.' or 'I study vocabulary five words ずつ.'
Memorize It
Mnemonic
Imagine a teacher giving out pencils 'zoot suit' style - one for each student, one after another! 'Zoot suit' sounds a bit like 'zutto' (always) and 'tsu' (one).
Visual Association
Picture a scale perfectly balancing items, giving one item at a time to each side until they are equal. Or visualize climbing a staircase, taking one step at a time.
Word Web
Challenge
Try describing how you share snacks with friends using '〜ずつ'. Or explain how you are learning a new skill using '少しずつ'.
Word Origin
Japanese
Original meaning: Related to concepts of separation, division, or portioning.
Cultural Context
None. It's a neutral grammatical particle.
In English, we use phrases like 'each', 'one by one', 'little by little', or 'gradually' to convey similar meanings. The Japanese '〜ずつ' neatly packages these concepts.
Practice in Real Life
Real-World Contexts
Sharing Food/Items
- 一人ずつ配ってください。
- 皆ずつ分けましょう。
- 二つずつ取ってください。
Learning/Skill Development
- 少しずつ覚えます。
- 毎日少しずつ練習します。
- 一歩ずつ進みましょう。
Instructions/Directions
- 順番ずつお入りください。
- 一人ずつ質問してください。
- ゆっくりずつで大丈夫です。
Describing Gradual Change
- 少しずつ寒くなってきた。
- 体調が少しずつ回復している。
- 彼の考え方は少しずつ変わった。
Conversation Starters
"How are you learning Japanese? Are you studying '少しずつ'?"
"If you were sharing cookies, would you give them out '一人ずつ' or all at once?"
"What's something you're trying to improve '一歩ずつ'?"
"Imagine you're teaching someone a new skill. How would you explain it using '〜ずつ'?"
"Do you prefer to tackle tasks '少しずつ' or all at the same time?"
Journal Prompts
Describe a time you achieved something '一歩ずつ'. What was the goal, and what were the steps?
Write about a skill you are learning. How are you progressing '少しずつ'?
Imagine you have to distribute items equally. How would you use '〜ずつ' to explain the process?
Reflect on a recent change in your life. Was it sudden, or did it happen '少しずつ'?
Frequently Asked Questions
8 questions〜個 is a counter for general items (like 'one item', 'two items'). 〜ずつ is used *with* counters (like 'one item each', 'two items per person') to show distribution or quantity per unit.
Yes! Phrases like '少しずつ' (little by little) and '一歩ずつ' (one step at a time) apply to abstract concepts like learning, recovery, or progress.
Mostly, yes. It's very common with numbers (一人, 二つ) and quantifiers (少し). It can also follow nouns that imply a unit or sequence.
Common ways include '一度に' (ichido ni) or '全部で' (zenbu de). These are antonyms to the idea of '〜ずつ'.
No, 〜ずつ is a particle that doesn't change its form. Its meaning is consistent regardless of the verb's tense.
Both mean gradual progress. 少しずつ focuses on the small amount or degree of change, while ゆっくりずつ emphasizes the slow pace or lack of haste.
Yes, for example, '少しずつしか進んでいません' (It's only progressing little by little), implying slow progress.
No, it's a standard and neutral grammatical particle. Its usage is generally polite and informative.
Test Yourself
Please give me one candy ______.
〜ずつ means 'one at a time' or 'each', fitting the context of giving one candy.
Which phrase means 'little by little'?
少しずつ (sukoshi zutsu) specifically means 'little by little' or 'gradually'.
The particle 〜ずつ is used to describe actions happening all at the same time.
〜ずつ describes actions done one by one or in small, equal portions, not simultaneously.
Word
Meaning
These pairs show common collocations and their meanings.
The correct sentence is '私は日本語を少しずつ勉強します' (I study Japanese little by little).
この薬は一日三回、一回につき二錠 ______ 飲んでください。
〜ずつ indicates the quantity per intake (two pills each time).
What does '一歩ずつ' emphasize?
'一歩ずつ' means 'one step at a time', emphasizing steady, deliberate progress.
The phrase '皆ずつ' implies that only one person receives an item.
'皆ずつ' means 'everyone gets one', emphasizing equal distribution to all.
目標に向かって ______ 進みましょう。
'一歩ずつ' (one step at a time) fits the context of progressing towards a goal.
Translate: 'He is gradually recovering from his illness.'
The phrase '少しずつ' translates to 'gradually' or 'little by little'.
Score: /10
Summary
Mastering '〜ずつ' allows you to express nuanced ideas about fairness, steady progress, and methodical action in Japanese.
- 〜ずつ means 'each' or 'one at a time'.
- Used for equal distribution or gradual progress.
- Commonly follows numbers or quantifiers.
- Key phrases: 少しずつ, 一人ずつ, 一歩ずつ.
Visualize Distribution
Imagine a teacher handing out identical pencils, one to each student. Picture the 'tsu' sound coming out with each pencil.
Think 'Fair Share' or 'Steady Pace'
When you see 〜ずつ, think about either sharing things equally or doing something in a steady, non-rushed manner.
Order and Equity
The use of 〜ずつ reflects a cultural appreciation for order, fairness, and methodical approaches in Japanese society.
The 'Unit' Rule
〜ずつ usually follows a word that defines the unit: 'one person', 'two items', 'a little bit', 'one step'.
Related Content
This Word in Other Languages
More food words
〜ほど
B1About; approximately; degree.
~ほど
B1About, approximately; to the extent of ~.
豊富な
B1Abundant, rich in.
ふんだんに
B1Lavishly; abundantly; generously (e.g., using ingredients).
足す
B1To add (e.g., to a sum, to ingredients).
添加物
B1Additive.
〜てから
B1After doing ~.
~てから
B1After doing (an action).
熟成させる
B1To age; to mature (food).
熟成した
B1Aged; matured.
