Introduction

The grammar pattern tsumori desu is an important JLPT N4 grammar used to express intention or plans. This pattern is used when the speaker has already decided to do something. It appears frequently in JLPT N4 listening and reading sections, especially in conversations about future plans. Learners must understand that tsumori desu shows intention, not a fixed schedule.

This article explains tsumori desu clearly in simple English for Japanese learners. All Japanese examples are written only in hiragana and katakana, with no kanji.

Grammar Structure Explained

verb dictionary form + tsumori desu verb nai form + tsumori desu

This grammar is used when the speaker wants to say what they plan or intend to do. The verb comes before tsumori desu.

Meaning in English

Tsumori desu means "plan to do something" or "intend to do something". It shows a personal decision.

When to Use This Grammar

You use tsumori desu in the following situations. When talking about future plans. When explaining your intention. When answering questions about what you will do. When making personal decisions clear.

Examples

1. raishuu nihon e iku tsumori desu。 i plan to go to japan next week.

2. mainichi nihongo o benkyou suru tsumori desu。 i plan to study japanese every day.

3. kyou wa soto de tabenai tsumori desu。 i do not plan to eat outside today.

4. daigaku de benkyou suru tsumori desu。 i plan to study at university.

5. hayaku neru tsumori desu。 i plan to sleep early.

Negative Form

To say you do not plan to do something, use nai form.

verb nai form + tsumori desu

Example. ikae nai tsumori desu。 i do not plan to go.

Important Grammar Notes

Tsumori desu shows intention, not a fixed schedule. For fixed schedules, another grammar is used. Do not use tsumori desu for sudden decisions made at the moment of speaking.

Common Mistakes by Learners

Using masu form before tsumori desu. Using this grammar for fixed schedules. Confusing tsumori desu with other future expressions.

JLPT N4 Exam Point

In JLPT N4, tsumori desu often appears in listening questions where people talk about future plans. It also appears in reading passages such as emails and conversations. Understanding intention versus schedule is important for exam accuracy.

Short Practice

Make sentences using tsumori desu. Example: iku → iku tsumori desu

Practice verbs. taberu benkyou suru kaimono suru hashiru

Summary

Tsumori desu is a core JLPT N4 grammar pattern used to express intention or plans. It shows a personal decision. This grammar appears frequently in JLPT N4 listening and reading sections. Mastering tsumori desu will help you clearly express future intentions in Japanese.

JLPT N4 Grammar tsumori desu Explained | Expressing Intention and Plans in Japanese