Introduction

The grammar pattern potential form is one of the most essential JLPT N4 grammar points. It is used to express ability, possibility, or something that can be done. This grammar appears very frequently in JLPT N4 listening, reading, and grammar questions. Learners must clearly understand how to change verbs into potential form and how to use it naturally in sentences.

This article explains potential form clearly in simple English for Japanese learners. All Japanese examples are written only in hiragana and katakana, with no kanji. All section titles are written in bold black format to make learning easier for students.

Grammar Structure Explained

verb → potential form

Group 1 verbs change the final sound to e + ru. Group 2 verbs change ru to rareru. Suru becomes dekiru. Kuru becomes korareru.

Meaning in English

Potential form means "can do", "be able to do", or "possible to do". It shows ability or possibility.

When to Use This Grammar

You use potential form in the following situations. When talking about ability. When talking about possibility. When talking about things that are possible or impossible. When explaining skills or conditions.

Examples

nihongo ga hanaseru。 i can speak japanese.
watashi wa oyogeru。 i can swim.
koko de shashin ga toreru。 i can take photos here.
ashita kuru koto ga dekiru。 i can come tomorrow.
kono kanji wa yomeru。 i can read this kanji.

Important Grammar Notes

In potential form, the particle wo often changes to ga. This grammar focuses on ability, not action. Potential form is very common in daily conversation and exams.

Common Mistakes by Learners

Forgetting to change wo to ga. Using masu form instead of potential form. Confusing potential form with permission grammar.

JLPT N4 Exam Point

In JLPT N4, potential form appears in grammar questions, sentence completion, listening conversations, and short reading passages. Learners must understand verb changes and meaning clearly to avoid mistakes.

Short Practice

Make sentences using potential form. Example: taberu → taberareru

Practice verbs. nomu kaku miru benkyou suru

Summary

Potential form is a core JLPT N4 grammar pattern used to express ability and possibility. It shows what someone can or cannot do. This grammar appears very frequently in JLPT N4 exams. Mastering potential form will greatly improve your Japanese speaking, listening, and reading skills.

JLPT N4 Grammar Potential Form Explained | Expressing Ability in Japanese